Electromagnetic fields, propagation in vacuum and matter. Polarization, interference, thin film optics, optical metrology. Diffraction, Fourier optics, coherence, labs.
SK2300 Optical Physics 6.0 credits
In the course Optical Physics you study optical phenomena, as well as technological applications of optics. Topics are the nature of light, propagation of light, geometrical optics, optical instruments, polarisation, interference, diffraction, Fourier optics, quantum optics, holography, photodetectors and solar energy. Course activities are lectures, exercise classes and five labs.
The picture shows a plastic geo triangle under stress, which is placed between two crossed polarisers. The elasto-optic effect in the triangle produces a change in the light's polarisation and leads to the observation of various colours.
Teachers of this course: Marijn Versteegh, Val Zwiller and Stephan Steinhauer.
Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.
Headings with content from the Course syllabus SK2300 (Autumn 2020–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
After completing the course the student should be able to:
- Explain optical phenomena and solve technical problems related to optical technology applications
- Build and use optical setups to analyze optical phenomena
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
For external students the following are required: 120 credits within natural sciences and engineering or corresponding knowledge and documented proficiency in English B or corresponding knowledge.
Recommedned previous knowledge:
Basic knowledge within classical physics, particularly waves and elementary classical optics (course SK1101, Classical Physics or corresponding), mathematics (vector analysis, differential equations, fourier transformation).
Recommended prerequisites
Basic knowledge within classical physics, particularly waves and elementary classical optics (course SK1101, Classical Physics or corresponding), mathematics (vector analysis, differential equations, fourier transformation).
Equipment
No information inserted
Literature
No information inserted
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Examination
- LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Examination, 4.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
Other requirements for final grade
One written exam (TEN1; 4 university credits). Laboratory work (LAB1; 2 university credits).
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
No information inserted
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Yes
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Course room in Canvas
Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.
Offered by
Main field of study
Engineering Physics
Education cycle
Second cycle
Add-on studies
SK2400 Quantum Electronics, SK2401 Electro Optics and SK2350 Optical Measurement Techniques.
Contact
Val Zwiller (zwiller@kth.se)