UNIK3480 – Optics and light
Course description
Schedule, syllabus and examination date
Course content
Physics of light: photons, waves, polarisation, rays. Calculation of ray paths and light levels. Analytical and numerical calculation of properties of optics for imaging and illumination: lenses, mirrors, prisms and composite lens systems. Modelling and correction of imaging aberrations. Gaussian (laser) beams. Introduction to detectors, image sensors, optical fibres interferometry and spectroscopy. Optical instruments: eye, camera, microscope and telescope. The lectures will contain practical demonstrations and experiments.
Learning outcome
The course gives insight into the physics of light, and gives a basis for understanding optical measurements and optical technology. After taking this course, you will be able to:
- use optical components and systems
- use, and choose, different models for light (ray, wave, field or particle)
- calculate light level and ray paths in optical systems
- understand the operating principle of some important types of optical instruments
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
In addition to fulfilling the Higher Education Entrance Qualification, applicants have to meet the following special admission requirements:
-
Mathematics R1 (or Mathematics S1 and S2) + R2
And in addition one of these:
- Physics (1+2)
- Chemistry (1+2)
- Biology (1+2)
- Information technology (1+2)
- Geosciences (1+2)
- Technology and theories of research (1+2)
The special admission requirements may also be covered by equivalent studies from Norwegian upper secondary school or by other equivalent studies (in Norwegian).
Recommended previous knowledge
The course builds on knowledge as given by FYS1120 – Electromagnetism and FYS2130 – Oscillations and Waves or similar.
Teaching
3 hours of lectures + 2 hours group/lab sessions each week. The lectures and groups will all be held at Blindern campus.
Examination
An oral exam in the end of the semester will determine the total grade. In case of many students, the final exam may be written.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Students who can document a valid reason for absence from the regular examination are offered a postponed examination at the beginning of the next semester.
Re-scheduled examinations are not offered to students who withdraw during, or did not pass the original examination.
Withdrawal from an examination
It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.
Evaluation
The course is subject to continuous evaluation. At regular intervals we also ask students to participate in a more comprehensive evaluation.