PHS3202 - Wave optics and atomic physics - 2019

This unit explores topics in classical wave optics and the interactions between the photon and matter.

Optics: wave propagation and image formation, plane waves, diffraction, propagation, angular spectrum, phase contrast, interferometry, holography, focused fields, Fourier optics.

Atomic physics: Two level atoms, absorption and emission of radiation, transition probabilities and lineshapes laser cooling, dipole force and optical trapping, magnetic trapping of atoms, lasers and coherent light, laser cooling, Bose-Einstein condensation, modulation devices, optical waveguides, fibre optic communications.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe and perform calculations associated with fundamental concepts in wave optics.
2. Describe concepts and perform calculations in atomic physics.
3. Apply numerical modelling to solve problems in wave optics and atomic physics.
4. Demonstrate awareness of scientific computing methods and visualization.
5. Demonstrate an ability to work in teams and to communicate and discuss physics concepts.
6. Approach new problems and find solutions on the basis of general principles, and evaluate the appropriateness of their proposed models or solutions.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Examination (3 hours): 50%

In-semester assessment : 50%

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (approximately 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer-directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Astrophysics

Physics