Physics 340

Optics

Introduction

What you need to know to get through this class.
General Information:
Lecture Room: Berndt Hall 680
Class Times: TTh 9:30-10:50

Charles L. Hakes
Office : Berndt 630
Office phone: 247-7242 (However, this is not the best way to contact me.)
Probable office hours: MWF 10:55-12:15, or right before lab on Tuesday.
e-mail: hakes_c@fortlewis.edu (This is the best way to contact me)

Web Site: http://faculty.fortlewis.edu/hakes_c

COURSE INFORMATION:

Text: Introduction to Modern Optics  by Grant R. Fowles, 2nd Edition.

Catalog Description: A study of classical and modern theories of geometrical and physical optics including matrix methods for optical systems, diffraction theory and an introduction to Fourier optics. (3-3)  Pre-requisites: MATH 222.

Course Objective: Physics 340, Optics, is the study of electromagnetic radiation (light), and the interaction of light with matter.  This study includes the propagation of light through lenses (geometric optics) and reflection and refraction at material boundaries and the propagation through materials with a complex index of refraction.  This class includes a laboratory and covers both the classical and quantum nature of light.  Students completing the class will be proficient in solving optics problems on paper and in the laboratory.

Prerequisites: MATH 222 (calculus II) PHYS 218 (physics II)

Elective Class: 4 crdit hours lecture-lab (3-3)

COURSE OUTCOMES: (with corresponding FLC ABET Outcomes):
(1)    Obtain and demonstrate an understanding of Maxwell’s Equations.  (Outcome 2 and 3).
(2)    Understand the vector nature of light and how that is used to understand polarization and interference.  Demonstrate the use of matrixes to describe the propagation of polarized light.  (Outcome 2 and 4).
(3)    Demonstrate problem solving ability by completing homework problems and taking tests over the covered topics.  (Outcome 2 and 4).
(4)    Demonstrate proficiency using laboratory equipment to complete various optics experiments.  (Outcome 2 and 6).
(5)    Students will work together in the laboratory and in small groups to solve and present problems to the professor and laboratory results to the class.  (Outcome 1 and 5).

FLC ABET Outcomes:
(1)    Our students will have experienced a core of humanities, social sciences, and communications and demonstrate the use of this core to support the technical content of their engineering curriculum.
(2)     Our students will become competent in fundamental math/basic science subjects, which include:
•    Calculus through ordinary differential equations.
•    Chemistry and calculus based physics
•    Laboratory experiences in the physical sciences
(3)     All graduating engineering students will be competent in a group of core engineering fundamentals. 
    These include Computer Aided Design, Programming, Electric Networks, Statics, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Measurements and Instrumentation, Mechanics of Materials, Material Science, Fluid Mechanics, and Computational Methods.
(4)     Upper level engineering students will have had the opportunity to demonstrate depth in a discipline specific area and/or prepare themselves for graduate education. 
(5)     All engineering students will be proficient in engineering design and demonstrate design competence through a capstone experience focused on the following:
•    Designing a project, device, system, or process incorporating engineering standards and realistic constraints that include standard engineering and non-engineering considerations such as economic, environmental and manufacturability.  When appropriate ethical, health and safety, social, global, and political considerations will be addressed.
•    Written and verbal communication
•    Using design methodology, computer applications, computer aided design tools, and/or experimental apparatus that are modern and appropriate to the discipline
•    Working effectively in a team environment.
(6)     All engineering students will be laboratory and computer proficient with current laboratory and computer methods.

Homework Requirement:  You must know how to solve problems to do the homeworks and pass the tests.  The only way to become proficient is to practice.  So... there will be homework from every chapter we cover in class.  The homework doesn't count as much as the tests, but you will find the tests rather difficult if you have not done the homework.  Homework problems will generally be due in class weekly, unless otherwise specified.  Late homework is penalized appropriately. 

Withdrawing from Class:  The last day to withdraw from this class with a "CW" is according to Fort Lewis policy and posted on the FLC Academic Calendar.

Academic (dis)honesty:  Any incidents of cheating on quizzes or exams will result in being reported to the office of academic affairs, and an F for the course.  (I may soften that penalty only if circumstances warrant it, at my discretion.)  I do encourage you to work together to discuss the homework, but your written answer must be in your own words.  Don't Copy!  Unacceptable collaboration on a homework assignment will result in a score of zero for the entire assignment.  Answer in your own words in order to actually learn something!

Accessibility: Students with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations to fully participate in course activities or meet course requirements must register with  Disability Services, 280 Noble Hall, 247-7459.  If you qualify for services, bring your letter of accommodations to me during office hours as soon as possible.

Additional information