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Optics

Key information

  • Module code:

    6CCP3380

  • Level:

    6

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

 Learning aims & outcomes

The course introduces some of the governing principles used to model, understand and solve problems in optics. In this course students should gain a greater understanding of what is light and how it interacts with different media. We will cover wave motion, electromagnetic theory, the propagation of light, geometrical optics, superposition of waves, polarization, interference and diffraction, as well as nonlinear optics. Common applications, such as lasers, will be discussed throughout.

Syllabus

  • Wave-optical treatment of refraction, reflection, and interference
  • Scalar wave approach to diffraction: the Fraunhofer and Fresnel approximations
  • Application to apertures and gratings
  • The Fourier transforming properties of a lens
  • Imaging with coherent and incoherent illumination
  • The concept of resolution and transfer functions
  • Nonlinear optics

Assessment details

Details of the module's assessment/s

 
Type Weighting Marking Model
Quizzes 20%  
Written Exam (January) 80% Model 2 - Double Marking

 

Please note: - module assessment may be subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact ug-physics@kcl.ac.uk

Students studying at King's for Semester 1 only (September-December) will be set alternative assessment in lieu of in-person exams in January / May as necessary. Further information will be provided by the Department.

Teaching pattern

Two lectures per week (Approx Total 4 hours per week)

 

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.