An experimental verification of the theory of parallel-plate media

Some measurements of transmission coefficient and deviation for various angles of incidence of a plane wave on a parallel-plate prism are described. These results are compared with values derived from an idealized theory in which plate thickness and conductivity are neglected and an infinite number of plates is assumed. It is shown that the theory is adequate to give a qualitative picture of the behaviour of the prism but that the plate thickness must be taken into account if accurate quantitative predictions are to be made from the theory.