PHYS201-13S1 (C) Semester One 2013

Waves and Optics

15 points

Details:
Start Date: Monday, 18 February 2013
End Date: Sunday, 23 June 2013
Withdrawal Dates
Last Day to withdraw from this course:
  • Without financial penalty (full fee refund): Sunday, 3 March 2013
  • Without academic penalty (including no fee refund): Sunday, 19 May 2013

Description

Physics of wave oscillations and their applications in numerous different physical systems. The essential elements of optics are covered including an exposition of key modern developments.

In this course we study the physics of wave oscillations and their applications in numerous
different physical systems. The geometric theory of image formation is developed and applied
to various optical instruments. We will study interference and diffraction problems using
Fourier techniques. Its use in optical instruments such as diffraction grating spectrometers,
interferometers and lasers is highlighted.

Learning Outcomes

  • Goal of the Course
    The goal of this course is to provide thorough knowledge of the physics of wave oscillations,
    geometric and physical optics for students graduating with a physics major.

    Students will:
  • Have acquired an understanding of the importance of wave phenomena in the
    physical world.
  • Have mastered the mathematical formalism used to describe oscillatory systems.
  • Be able to solve imaging problems in geometric optics.
  • Be able to apply Fourier techniques to solve diffraction problems in physical optics
  • Be familiar with key modern developments in optics
  • Have developed and be able to demonstrate competency to solve appropriate
    physics problems in the concepts of the course. Have developed and be able to
    demonstrate writing and associated communication skills.

Prerequisites

(1) PHYS101; (2) MATH102 or EMTH118. These prerequisites may be replaced by a high level of achievement in level 3 NCEA Physics and Mathematics with Calculus or other background approved by the Head of Department. RP: (1) PHYS102; (2) MATH103 or EMTH119.

Restrictions

PHYS221

Recommended Preparation

(1) PHYS102; (2) MATH103 or EMTH119.

Course Coordinator

For further information see Physics and Astronomy Head of Department

Assessment

Assessment Due Date Percentage 
Final Exam 50%
Homework 20%
Test 30%


20% Homework Assignments (9, counting best 8) handed in every Tuesday from week 2.
15% Term 1 Test. Wednesday March 20th, 9:00 am (normal lecture time).
15% Term 2 Test. Wednesday May 15th, 9:00 am (normal lecture time)
50% Final Examination

Notes

Electronic copies of the detailed lecture notes will be available on the Learn system after
week two: http://learn.canterbury.ac.nz/

Late Work
Late work is not in general acceptable without a medical certificate.

General Physics and Astronomy Information
Please consult the document General Information for Physics and Astronomy Students on the
Physics and Astronomy Web Page:
http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz/courses/
specifically:
http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz/courses/general.pdf

Indicative Fees

Domestic fee $747.00

International fee $3,488.00

* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.

For further information see Physics and Astronomy .

All PHYS201 Occurrences

  • PHYS201-13S1 (C) Semester One 2013
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