Lasers and Optics

Course aim

Build basic knowledge of optics, lasers and their applications. To extend the students’ experience in collecting, analysing and reporting experimental data; knowledge and understanding of a range of experimental equipment and techniques employed in experimental and applied physics; practical experience in Lasers and Optics.

Course content

A course in advanced experimental work, under supervision, in the areas of Lasers and Optics. Experimental work is supported by resource sessions on each topic.
Lasers: Introduction, spectrometry, coherence and correlation, laser cavities, rate equations, laser systems and applications, homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening, laser light properties and detection.
Optics: Review of basic optics, geometrical optics, optical instruments, polarisation, interference and diffraction, interferometry, spectrometers, optics and photonics in nature.

Textbook(s)

FG Smith and TA King 2000, Optics and Photonics, An Introduction, Wiley

Prerequisite(s)

Completion of year 1 level physics in a major/minor of the Bachelor of Science or equivalent Engineering degree.

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Examination or assignment, Practical - Reports (in-class assessment), Project & Seminar Presentation (continuation of practical)

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
Non-award tuition fees are set by the university. To determine the cost of this course, go to:
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Not all courses are available on all of the above bases, and students must check to ensure that they are permitted to enrol in a particular course.

* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.