Interferometers are instruments used to measure interference patterns created by the combination of two or more light waves. They are commonly used in many scientific fields, such as astronomy, chemistry, and physics. Some possible synonyms for interferometers include wavefront sensors, optical analyzers, and optical interferometry systems. Other related terms include fringe patterns, coherence, and optical path difference. Precision instruments with high sensitivity to minute changes in measurements, interferometers have important applications in the measurement of physical properties such as distance, velocity, and refractive index. They are also employed in the development of new materials and technologies in fields such as semiconductor manufacturing, quantum computing, and telecommunications.