PHYS 1290 Waves and Optics

Year
Year 1
Semester
Second Semester
Credit
3
Program Description

Study of wave propagation, interference, and optical system design fundamentals.

Course overview

PHYS 1290 Waves and Optics covers the fundamental behaviour of waves in various media. You will explore topics such as wave propagation, interference, and optical system design fundamentals. The course combines theoretical study with practical laboratory work to help you understand how light and sound waves interact with matter.

Who takes this course

Credits: 3 · Hours: 45

Prerequisites

None

Learning outcomes

  • Describe the properties of mechanical and electromagnetic waves.
  • Analyze wave interference and diffraction patterns.
  • Calculate image formation in lenses and mirrors.
  • Apply principles of geometric optics to simple optical systems.

Evaluation

Component Weight (%)
Midterm exam 30
Final exam 40
Laboratory reports 20
Quizzes 10