PX2232: Optics
| School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
| Department Code | PHYSX |
| Module Code | PX2232 |
| External Subject Code | 100425 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L5 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Bernard Richardson |
| Semester | Spring Semester |
| Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
To introduce concepts of “imaging” through a study of geometrical and physical optics.
To study optical system design and evaluation using Fourier techniques.
To apply optical theory to solve a variety of real problems.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Describe from first principles the formation of interference fringes in thin-film interference and discuss their use in interferometry and metrology.
Derive the functional form of a variety of 1-D and 2-D Fraunhofer diffraction patterns using both Huygen’s principle and Fourier techniques and apply the theory to describe the diffraction-limited resolution of optical systems and to grating spectroscopy.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of Fourier transforms and convolution theory to solve problems in optical system design and simple image processing.
How the module will be delivered
Lectures 22 x 1 hr, marked exercises.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Mathematics. Problem solving. Investigative skills. Analytical skills.
How the module will be assessed
Examination and Continuous Assessment
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam - Spring Semester | 80 | Optics | 2 |
| Written Assessment | 20 | Optics | N/A |
Syllabus content
Introduction and Revision: Electromagnetic spectrum. EM waves in free space and in dielectrics. Light sources. Coherence. The human eye and other optical detectors.
Interference: Two-beam interference. Fringe visibility. Michelson interferometer. Thin-film interference. Multiple-beam interference. Antireflection coatings. Laser cavities.
Fraunhofer and Fresnel Diffraction: Diffraction from single slit, rectangular and circular apertures. Rayleigh criterion and resolving power. Double slit and multiple slit diffraction. Grating spectroscopy. Semi-infinite opaque screen.
Fourier Optics: Revision of Fourier series and an introduction to Fourier transforms. Spatial frequencies. FTs and Fraunhofer diffraction. Fourier theory. Convolution. Practical applications of FTs in spatial and temporal domains through directed work in PC Lab.
Optical Systems: Geometrical optics. Lens aberrations. Point spread functions. Optical and modulation transfer functions.
Wavefront Reconstruction: Holography.
Background Reading and Resource List
Principles of Physics (Extended Version), Halliday, Resnick and Walker (Wiley).
Optics, E Hecht, 3rd Edn (Addison Wesley).