Program Overview
Optics and Photonics I Module
The Optics and Photonics I module, coded as PH41005, is a comprehensive course that delves into the nature of light and its interactions with matter, lenses, and lasers. This module is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of optics concepts, which are essential for a physics graduate.
Module Details
- Credits: 15
- Level: 4
- Semester: Semester 1
- School: School of Science and Engineering
- Discipline: Physics
What You Will Learn
In this module, students will gain insight into contemporary optics and photonic systems. The curriculum includes:
- The nature of light, including wave, ray, and photon descriptions
- The matrix description of geometrical optics
- Electromagnetic waves as applied to optics
- Introduction to different theories, calculations, and models about optical polarization, diffraction, interference, and lasers
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
- Understand the nature of light with wave, ray, and photon descriptions
- Discuss how interferometers, such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), work to detect gravitational waves
- Calculate transmission, reflection, refraction, and diffraction in complex systems
- Understand how lasers work
Assignments and Assessment
The assessment for this module consists of:
- Coursework (20%)
- Final exam (80%)
Teaching Methods and Timetable
The teaching approach for this module involves a hands-on method, including seminars, problem-solving workshops, and Physics Colloquia talks by invited speakers. Learning materials are provided through videos, review notes, examples, and tutorial questions.
Available Courses
This module is available on the following undergraduate courses:
- Physics MSci (Hons)
- Physics with Astrophysics BSc (Hons)
- Physics with Renewable Energy Science BSc (Hons)
- Physics BSc (Hons)
- Physics with Renewable Energy Science MSci (Hons)