Advanced Optics
To introduce students to fundamental and advanced topics in modern optics and photon physics.
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Explain core concepts in classical, wave, and quantum optics.
Apply mathematical models (e.g., Helmholtz and Fourier optics) to analyze optical systems.
Characterize laser beams and optical devices, including resonators and fiber optics.
Describe quantum properties of light and photon-atom interactions.
Conduct and interpret laboratory experiments in interferometry, diffraction, and optical trapping.
Required online training before commencing lab classes:
Laser Safety, Chemical Handling, Waste Disposal.
Review of geometrical optics; wave properties of light and the wave equation; Helmholtz equation; wave optics, including Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction, transfer functions, coherence, auto and cross-correlation; Gaussian and non-Gaussian beam profiles; quantum optics and photon statistics; spin squeezing; applications of optics including fiber optics, laser resonators, laser amplifiers, non-linear optics, and optical trapping; quantum properties of light; interaction of photons and atoms.
1 Review of classical optics
2 Ray and wave optics
3 Laser optics and Gaussian beams
4 Non-Gaussian beam optics
5 Fourier optics
6 Electromagnetic optics
7 Nonlinear optics
8 Lasers, resonators and cavities
9 Photon optics
10 Photon statistics and squeezed light
11 Interaction of photons with atoms
12 Experimental applications: Optical trapping
13 Experimental applications: Laser resonator design
14 Experimental applications: Light propagation in optical fibers and nanofibers
15 Experimental applications: laser cooling of alkali atoms
Laboratory Exercises: Mach-Zehnder & Fabry-Perot Interferometry; Fraunhofer & Fresnel Diffraction; Single-mode and Multimode Fiber Optics; Polarization of Light; Optical Trapping & Optical Tweezers
Homework: 60%, Final Exam, 40%.
Quantum Mechanics
Fundamentals of Photonics, by Saleh and Teich (2007) Wiley
Quantum Optics, an Introduction, by Mark Fox (2006) Oxford University Press
Optics, by Eugen Hecht (2001) Addison Wesley
Alternate years course: AY2024
Enrollment cap of 8 students