PHSCS 471
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Principles of Optics
Physics and Astronomy
College of Computational, Mathematical, & Physical Sciences
Course Description
Electromagnetic wave phenomena, including polarization effects, interference, coherence, dispersion, ray theory, diffraction; introduction to quantum nature of light. Laboratory component emphasizes applications.
When Taught
Winter
Min
3
Fixed/Max
3
Fixed
3
Fixed
1
Other Prerequisites
Math 303 or 334 or concurrent enrollment
Recommended
Phscs 318
Title
Basic Optics Concepts
Learning Outcome
Use mathematical and conceptual descriptions of propagation of light in matter, reflection/transmission at boundaries, polarization effects, interference, dispersion, coherence, image formation, diffraction, and quantum aspects of light to analyze and predict optical phenomena.
Title
Mathematical Tools
Learning Outcome
Apply mathematical tools such as vector calculus, complex numbers, matrices, and Fourier transforms (1D and 2D) to optical problems.
Title
Lab Work
Learning Outcome
Manipulate and measure properties of light in a laboratory setting.
