| Semester 2, 2023 Online | |
| Units : | 1 |
| School or Department : | School of Mathematics, Physics & Computing |
| Grading basis : | Graded |
| Course fee schedule : | /current-students/administration/fees/fee-schedules |
Staffing
Course Coordinator:
Requisites
Pre-requisite: PHY1104 and PHY1911
Overview
This course forms a mandatory coursework component for the Bachelor of Science (Astronomical and Space Sciences) and provides an in-depth intermediate level coverage of optics which builds and expands on the introductory topics covered in PHY1911, from geometrical to modern optics with deeper analysis of a variety of optical systems. This course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding in optics whereby the student can apply this knowledge into the solving of complex problems in optics and optical applications. The optical physics presented in this course provides important knowledge and skills for those intending to pursue careers in physics, astronomy and research.
This course is an intermediate treatment of optical physics, which builds and expands upon the material covered early in the major. Topics include complex and three-dimensional representation of wave motion, advanced treatment of reflection and refraction, optical component and device analysis including treatment of aberrations, wave superposition analysis, electromagnetic field equation analysis of polarisation and applications, field equation analysis of interference and diffraction, Fourier optics and coherence, and modern optical applications.
Course learning outcomes
On completion of this course students should be to:
- Assess and explain key concepts in optical physics.
- Evaluate and apply quantitative methods to solve problems in optical systems.
- Analyse data from optical systems.
- Review and report on the application of optics to modern technology
Topics
| Description | Weighting(%) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Wave motion and electromagnetic theory | 11.00 |
| 2. | The propagation of light through media | 13.00 |
| 3. | Geometrical optics | 13.00 |
| 4. | Wave superposition | 13.00 |
| 5. | Polarisation | 13.00 |
| 6. | Interference and diffraction | 13.00 |
| 7. | Fourier Optics and coherence | 13.00 |
| 8. | Modern optics and applications | 11.00 |
Text and materials required to be purchased or accessed
(Textbook ISBN: 9781108428262, E-Text ISBN: 9781108597548.)
Student workload expectations
To do well in this subject, students are expected to commit approximately 10 hours per week including class contact hours, independent study, and all assessment tasks. If you are undertaking additional activities, which may include placements and residential schools, the weekly workload hours may vary.
Assessment details
| Description | Group Assessment |
Weighting (%) | Course learning outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Report A1 of 2 | No | 10 | 1,2,3,4 |
| Problem Solving | No | 20 | 1,2,4 |
| Report A2 of 2 | No | 20 | 1,2,3,4 |
| Viva voce B2 of 2 | No | 10 | |
| Time limited online examinatn B1 of 2 | No | 40 | 1,2 |