PHMOC: Optical Propagation

Module Provider:

Physics

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

M

Terms in which taught:

Autumn

Module Convenor:

Dr J MacDonald

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2003

Aims:
The aim of this module is to provide a deeper understanding of the way in which light propagates through media than would be available from an undergraduate course in physics, also equipping the student with the ability to understand and exploit those aspects of applied optics that depend upon such knowledge, including non-linear optics and crystal optics.

Assessable learning outcomes:
After studying this module, the student should be able to:
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 quantitatively 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, and carry out calculations relating to birefringence; recall the fundamentals of e-m theory in isotropic dielectrics; explain the concept of non-linear electrical polarizability in terms of Maxwell's equations; explain quantitatively the second-order non-linear effects and techniques of second-harmonic generation, phase matching, optical rectification, optical mixing, and parametric amplification and oscillation; discuss the basics of third-order frequency multiplication, self-focussing, degenerate 4-wave mixing, and phase conjugation.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
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
Electromagnetic theory in isotropic dielectrics.
Non-linear electrical polarizability and susceptibility in Maxwell's equations.
Second-order theory and effects; including
Second harmonic generation.
Coherence length and phase matching.
Optical rectification.
Optical mixing.
Parametric amplification and oscillation.
Third-order Theory. An outline of:
Frequency multiplication.
Self focussing.
Degenerate 4-wave mixing.
Phase conjugation.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures, tutorials, homework problems. Supplemented by two appropriate experiments in the Lab Work module PHMOP.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework:
Nil
Relative percentage of coursework :
Nil
Examinations:
one 2-hour closed book exam
Requirements for a pass:
50%
Reassessment arrangements:
Resit paper