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Quantum and Advanced Optics (PHYC90006)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Not available in 2024
Overview
| Fees | Look up fees |
|---|
Optics and photonics are vibrant international research areas, advancing many aspects of modern life. From the determination of the structure and function of biomolecules to the study of stars and galaxies; from high-efficiency lighting to innovative display technologies, our understanding of optics relies on fundamental underpinnings in advanced quantum mechanics and wave theory.
The course includes the foundations of modern optical theory, including Fourier transforms in optics and diffraction-based imaging; non-linear optical processes such as generation of white light from femtosecond laser pulses, gigahertz optical modulators, and liquid crystal displays; light-atom interactions, the Einstein description of lasers, and optical Bloch equations; holography; quantum optics including zero-point energy and vacuum fluctuations; quantum states of light and quantum squeezing; laser cooling of atoms, atom interferometry, and Bose-Einstein condensation.
Students will develop both analytic and computational problem-solving methods, the latter using standard tools such as MATLAB.
Intended learning outcomes
The objectives of this subject are to provide:
- Understanding of classical optical diffraction theory and development of the ability to solve quantitative problems using the canonical mathematical techniques of that theory, in particular Fourier methods;
- Knowledge of important optical and photonic applications of classical wave theory, in imaging and non-linear optical processes;
- Understanding the semi-classical model of light-atom interactions, and its applications to laser theory and laser cooling of atoms;
- A rigorous understanding of the quantum nature of light, including both photon statistics and non-classical fields; and
- An appreciation of the technological relevance of modern physical and quantum optics.
Generic skills
At the completion of this subject, students should have gained skills in:
- Analysing how to solve a problem by applying simple fundamental laws to more complicated situations;
- Applying abstract concepts to real-world situations;
- Solving relatively complicated problems using approximations;
- Participating as an effective member of a group in discussions and collaborative assignments; and
- Managing time effectively in order to be prepared for group discussions and undertake the assignments and exam.
Last updated: 31 January 2024
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHYC30018 | Quantum Physics | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
AND
One of
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| No longer available | |||
| PHYC20015 | Special Relativity and Electromagnetism | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Or equivalent.
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 31 January 2024
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Four assignments totalling up to 36 pages of written work, spaced equally
| During the teaching period | 20% |
One written examination
| End of semester | 80% |
Last updated: 31 January 2024
Dates & times
Not available in 2024
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 31 January 2024
Further information
- Texts
Prescribed texts
None
Recommended texts and other resources
Fundamentals of Photonics, 2e, BEA Saleh and MC Teich, Wiley.
The quantum theory of light, 2e, R Loudon, Oxford.
Introduction to Fourier Optics, JW Goodman, McGraw-Hill.
Optics, 4e, E Hecht, Addison-Wesley.
- Subject notes
Students undertaking this subject will be expected to access a computer occasionally. Computational facilities will be provided within the School.
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Master of Science (Physics) Course Doctor of Philosophy - Engineering Course Ph.D.- Engineering Course Master of Philosophy - Engineering Major Physics Informal specialisation Physics - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
This subject is available to students studying at the University from eligible overseas institutions on exchange and study abroad. Students are required to satisfy any listed requirements, such as pre- and co-requisites, for enrolment in the subject.
Last updated: 31 January 2024