Course info

PHY202 introduces the students to the basics of wave phenomena and focuses, in particular, on optical waves. The major concepts are first presented by studying oscillations from simple systems before waves in general are introduced. Light waves are then described in detail, with a focus on polarization, reflection and refraction at interfaces and scattering. The concept of coherence is developed along with its spectacular experimental manifestations in interferences and diffraction. The course then focuses on the way light is emitted in various situations and covers black body radiation, as well as emission and absorption of light by atoms. The latter provides an opportunity to discuss the quantum behavior of matter and to introduce the electronic structure of atoms in a phenomenological manner. Concrete examples and illustration of these phenomena, such as the principle of the laser, the temperature of stars, and spectroscopy in astrophysics, are given during the lectures.