Light and Matter

Code

PHYS4021

School

Physics and Astronomy

Level

4

Credits

20

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

As the title of this block course might suggest, we will look in some detail at the interaction between light and matter. The module will have some focus on atomic physics, because atoms are the simplest form of matter that interacts with visible light. Our aim is to go beyond the simplistic model of photon absorption and emission. We will revise classical electromagnetic waves, move on to a quantum treatment and discuss some interesting effects and applications ranging from photon anti-bunching to laser cooling.



The material will cover:

1. revision of electromagnetic waves, classical atom models, heuristic quantum mechanics and Einstein coefficients;

2. atomic spectra, Stark and Zeeman effects, polarization of fields, static vs. time varying fields;

3. coherent light-atom interaction with quantised atoms, two-level atoms, Rabi oscillations;

4. decoherence, optical Bloch equations, Bloch sphere and density matrix formalism;

5. atomic line shapes, forces exerted by light on atoms;

6. light propagation in atomic media, absorption and refractive index.

Target Students

Students in the 4th year of MSci Physics, MathematicalPhysics, CMP and Natural Sciences programmes.

Classes

This module is based on a short set of staff lectures, a series of student led workshops and a mini-project

Assessment

• 40% Coursework 1: 3 Task Sheets
• 20% Presentation 1: Individual Presentation
• 40% Presentation 2: Project Presentation

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding: 
On successful completion of the module, students will have enhanced their:

• A1 knowledge of laser physics, quantum optics and ultra-cold atoms. 
• A2 knowledge and understanding of the scientific method. 
• A3 understanding of how the basic principles of optics and quantum mechanics are applied in a range of situations. 
• A4 knowledge of the methods of quantum mechanics for the analysis of physical problems. 
• A6 knowledge of the fundamental principles and applications of advanced atomic, optical and quantum physics at, or informed by, the forefront of the discipline.
 

Intellectual Skills: 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
• B1 apply theoretical ideas to the quantitative analysis of physical situations. 
• B2 apply high levels of numeracy and analysis. 
• B3 apply techniques of problem solving. 
• B4 apply high levels of computer literacy.

Professional/Practical Skills: 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:

• C1 formulate problems in physics using appropriate mathematical language. 
• C2 apply principles of experimental design, methodology and analysis. 
• C3 carry out independent scientific investigations. 
• C4 model physical problems using appropriate computational methods.

Transferable/Key Skills: 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:

• D1 develop appropriate strategies for study, including the use of library, human, and electronic sources of information. 
• D2 work successfully both independently and as a member of a small team. 
• D3 meet deadlines and manage their time effectively. 
• D4 make effective use of general IT tools for acquiring, processing, and presenting information. 
• D5 communicate effectively in writing, in particular to report critically on the results of an investigation. 
• D6 prepare and deliver presentations at a variety of levels and on advanced topics. 
• D7 effectively manage their time over a range of activities including collaborative working.
 

Conveners

• Dr Thomas Fernholz