Optical path difference ($h={\mathrm{OPL}}_2-{\mathrm{OPL}}_1$)

An optical path difference subtracts two optical path lengths at the same frequency and with specified endpoints and sign. Its phase difference contribution is $k_{0}h$, in addition to any apparatus reference wave phase. For wavefront error, the comparison is usually between an actual wavefront and an ideal reference wavefront.

In a monochromatic two-path interferometer, an ideal phase plate of thickness $t$ and refractive index $n$ adds phase $2\pi (n-1)t/\lambda$ at normal incidence. The interference pattern is unchanged when $(n-1)t=m\lambda$ for integer $m$, provided transmitted amplitudes and alignment are unchanged. Calling the smallest index requires specifying the admissible range; $n>1$ excludes the optically null $n=1$ solution.