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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. The course will also provide a review of 100 level mechanics material and then develop a deeper understanding of mechanics than addressed at 100-level, particularly the motion of rotating bodies and the application of these ideas to real-world systems such as the weather and orbits.
Students will:Be able to describe the motion of an object due the relationship between Force and Potential EnergyBe able to relate Angular Momentum, Torque and Kepler’s Laws for objects in orbitsBe able to explain the different types of reference framesBe able to solve problems in collisions and rotating frames by transformations to reference framesHave 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 solve diffraction problems in physical opticsBe familiar with key modern developments in opticsHave developed and be able to demonstrate competency to solve appropriate physics problems in the concepts of the course. (exam and assignment assessment)..Demonstrate competency to solve appropriate physics problems in the concepts of the course (exam and assignment assessment).Demonstrate writing and associated communication skills (exam and assignment assessment).
(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; (3) COSC131 or COSC121
PHYS201, PHYS202
(1) PHYS102; (2) MATH103 or EMTH119; (3) COSC131 or COSC121.
Students must attend one activity from each section.
Jon-Paul Wells
Clare Worley
C. Kittel e al.,; Mechanics ; McGraw-Hill.
E Hecht; Optics ; Addison-Wesley.
F Smith, T King, D Wilkins; Optics and Photonics ; John Wiley and Sons.
H.J. Pain; The Physics of Vibrations and Waves ; John Wiley & Sons.
I.G. Main; Vibration and Waves in Physics ; Cambridge University Press, New York.
R Serway, J Jewett; Physics for Scientists and Engineers wiht Modern Physics ; Thomson.
Course information and content (PDF 247KB)
General Course Information (PDF 163KB)
Domestic fee $978.00
International fee $4,988.00
* 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.
This course will not be offered if fewer than 20 people apply to enrol.
For further information see School of Physical & Chemical Sciences .