PHMDA1: Introduction to Wave Optics

Module Provider:

Physics

Number of credits:

20 [10 ECTS credits]

Level:

M

Terms in which taught:

Autumn

Module Convenor:

Dr J MacDonald

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2003

Aims:
To equip the student with an appreciation of basic physical optics, which concerns
the ways in which the wave nature of light manifests itself. This is mainly to enable
the student afterwards to acquire specific skills and knowledge in more advanced
modules. This is a core module of the MSc and Diploma in Applied and Modern
Optics.

Assessable learning outcomes:
After studying this module, the student should be able to:
Recall the complex representation of plane and spherical waves; justify the form of the Huygens-Fresnel diffraction integral; explain the propagation of plane and
spherical waves; explain the concept of edge waves; describe the principle of the zone plate; describe the principles of Fresnel diffraction; explain the significance of the point of stationary phase; apply Fresnel theory to the cases of diffraction from a slit and straight edge; explain the Fraunhofer approximation; describe the Fraunhofer approach to diffraction from circular and rectangular apertures; show the relationship between Fraunhofer diffraction and the Fourier transform; predict the form of various Fraunhofer diffraction patterns from a knowledge of the properties of corresponding Fourier transforms; describe the origin of refractive index in a dielectric; calculate the dispersion for various forms of medium; derive and apply the Lorenz-Lorentz Law; explain the polarization of skylight; perform calculations of Rayleigh scattering; calculate polarizability of a scatterer; describe quantitavely Rayleigh-Gans and Mie scattering and explain how they differ from Rayleigh; explain the nature of polarized light; demonstrate competence in the use of Stokes parameters; explain how a linearly
polarized beam may be considered equivalent to two superimposed circularly
polarized beams; describe and perform calculations relating to optical activity;
describe the propagation of light through anisotropic crystals; describe the effects of crystal symmetry on optical propagation; explain the form and function of retarders, carry out calculations relating to birefringence; and demonstrate practical skills in the study of diffraction and polarised light phenomena, specifically application of diffraction to a metrological application, the setting up and operation of a polarising microscope, and the measurement of phase retardation.

Additional outcomes:
Demonstrate competence in accessing learning via the Blackboard internet-based virtual learning environment, and in the use of on-line discussion boards.

Outline content:
Complex representation of plane and spherical waves.
Historical note.
The Huygens-Fresnel diffraction integral.
The propagation of plane and spherical waves:
edge waves, the zone plate.
Fresnel diffraction and the point of stationary phase:
slit and straight edge.
Fraunhofer diffraction: circular aperture and rectangular aperture.
Fraunhofer diffraction and the Fourier integral.
Fourier transform theorems and Fraunhofer diffraction patterns.
Refraction
Dispersion
Empirical relationships
Semi-classical formulation:
Conducting gas
Molecular gas
Dense dielectric
Metals
Lorenz-Lorentz law
Quantum mechanical derivation
Light scattering
Rayleigh scattering
Rayleigh-Gans scattering
Mie scattering
Optical activity
Polarization
Stokes parameters
Anisotropic crystals
Crystal symmetry
Crystal optics
Practical experiments in diffraction and the polarising microscope.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Blackboard-based 'lectures' with associated on-line formative feedback tests, directed reading, problem solving, and practical experiments. Web-based communication and discussion groups provide 'tutorial' support to distance-learning students.

Contact hours:
This section is not applicable to most of the module, since most of the students will be distance learning, except for summer practical sessions. The total workload is appropriate to a 20-credit module. Practical work: 16 hrs

Assessment:
Formative:
Web-based tests. No contribution to assessment of module.
Coursework:
Problem assignments
Lab reports on two experiments.
Relative percentage of coursework to total assessment of module : 40%
Examinations:
One 3-hour closed-book examination, worth 60% of the total mark for the module.
Requirements for a pass:
A mark of at least 50%, averaged over the coursework and the examination (weighted as indicated).
Reassessment arrangements:
Examination: re-examination in same format; Problem assignments and lab work: assessed by a further open-book examination of duration not exceeding one day.
1 Terms taught may vary as this is a flexible degree with distance-learning