Course Description
This course includes a study of the nature and propagation of light, reflection and refraction, interference, diffraction, gratings and spectra, relativity, elements of quantum physics, waves and particles, and nuclear physics.
Student Learning Outcomes
The student will be able to
- Analyze and solve novel problems using the concepts, equations and methods of optics and basic quantum physics in both independent and collaborative settings.
- Investigate physical phenomena experimentally using appropriate equipment and methods, and make valid comparisons with theoretical predictions.
- Clearly communicate results of scientific inquiries in both oral and written form.
Course Content
The following topics will be covered in lecture
- Reflection and Refraction
- Total Internal Refraction
- Mirrors
- Lenses
- Interference
- Diffraction
- Lorentz Contraction
- Mass Increase
- Time Dilation
- Einstein’s Photoelectric Effect
- Compton Scattering
- Schrodinger’s Equation
- The Bohr Hydrogen Atom
- One-electron Atoms
- Conduction of Electricity in Solids
- Radioactive Decay
- Fission
- Fusion
Potential Experiments
The following experiments may be performed in lab
- Snell’s Law
- Geometrical Optics
- Polarization
- Microscopes
- Telescopes
- Interference
- Diffraction