Year
2021
Units
4.5
Contact
3 x 1-hour lectures weekly
6 x 3-hour laboratories per semester
Enrolment not permitted
PHYS2702 has been successfully completed
Assessment
Assignment(s), Examination(s), Laboratory participation, Test(s)
Topic description

This topic includes study in: Radiometry and Photometry; Geometrical optics; Optical instruments; Vision correction. Wave nature of light; wave motion, wave equations, dispersion, interference; diffraction; polarisation; coherence; Particle nature of light; light-matter interaction, laser theory; laser types; and laser applications.

Educational aims

This topic aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the field of Optics and the closely related Classical Physics subjects of wave motion and dynamics. Students will attend laboratories where various Optical Phenomena will be investigated and practical experience with a variety of Optical Instruments will be obtained.

Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of Optics
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of general wave phenomena and how they are described mathematically
  3. Understand and apply the basic principles involved in the construction and operation of a variety of optical instruments, including mirrors, lenses, microscopes, telescopes, projectors, interferometers, optical fibres, and lasers