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Jason Hafner
This second course serves as an introduction to the physics of waves and light. Upon completion, learners will understand how mathematical laws and conservation principles describe wave propagation and light in the context of both geometrical and physical optics. Learners will gain experience in solving physics problems with tools such as graphical analysis, algebra, vector analysis, and calculus. This second course covers Electromagnetic Plane Waves, the Fresnel Equations, and Polarization. Each of the two modules contains complete video lectures, conceptual quizzes, and a set of homework problems. Once the modules are completed, the course ends with an exam. This comprehensive course is similar in detail and rigor to those taught on-campus at Rice. It will thoroughly prepare learners for their upcoming introductory physics courses or more advanced courses in physics.
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OpenCourser.com/course/37cvbg/physics
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What's inside
Syllabus
Light and Glass
Polarization
Light and Materials Exam
Read more
Syllabus
Light and Glass
Polarization
Light and Materials Exam
Read more
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the physics of waves and light
Covers advanced topics such as Electromagnetic Plane Waves, the Fresnel Equations, and Polarization, preparing learners for upcoming introductory physics courses or more advanced courses in physics
Provides a comprehensive study of the physics of waves and light, exploring topics that are standard in many introductory physics courses
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Save Physics of Light and Materials to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Physics of Light and Materials with these
activities:
Study and Review Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
Electromagnetism is a foundational topic that will be covered early on in the course. A review of Maxwell's Equations will ensure that you understand the foundational ideas on which more advanced topics build.
Browse courses on
Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
-
Review lecture notes and textbook chapters on Maxwell's Equations.
-
Solve practice problems involving Maxwell's Equations.
-
Watch online videos and tutorials on Maxwell's Equations.
Organize Course Materials
Show steps
This course is very quantitative and has a lot of moving parts. Keeping your materials organized will help you maintain focus and retain the information presented in the course.
Show steps
-
Create a dedicated folder for the course on your computer.
-
Organize files within the folder by topic or module.
-
Create a system for naming files so that you can easily find what you need.
Optics: Light and Lasers
Show steps
Review foundational optics concepts by reading this seminal text.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Make a list of the main topics to be covered in the course.
-
Read the first chapter of the book.
-
Identify the key concepts and definitions in the chapter.
-
Summarize the chapter in your own words.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Visualizing Optics Concepts
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of optics concepts by watching and interacting with online tutorials that use visualizations.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Identify the optics concepts you want to learn more about.
-
Find online tutorials that present these concepts using visualizations.
-
Watch and interact with the tutorials.
-
Take notes and annotate the tutorials.
Solving Problems in Optics
Show steps
Work through a variety of practice problems to improve your problem-solving skills in optics.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Identify the relevant concepts and principles for the problem.
-
Set up the problem mathematically.
-
Solve the problem.
-
Check your answer.
Optics Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with your peers to discuss and understand optics concepts in a group setting.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Find a group of peers who are interested in optics.
-
Meet regularly to discuss optics concepts.
-
Work together to solve problems and understand difficult concepts.
Optics Lab Report
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of optics principles by designing and conducting an optics experiment and writing a lab report.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Choose an optics experiment to conduct.
-
Design the experiment and write a procedure.
-
Conduct the experiment and collect data.
-
Analyze the data and draw conclusions.
-
Write a lab report that includes your procedure, data, and conclusions.
Optics Workshop
Show steps
Attend a workshop that provides hands-on experience with optics equipment and techniques.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Find an optics workshop that fits your interests and skill level.
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and participate actively.
-
Take notes and ask questions.
Volunteer at an Optics Lab
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to the optics community by volunteering at an optics lab.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
-
Find an optics lab that welcomes volunteers.
-
Contact the lab and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Complete any necessary training or orientation.
-
Volunteer regularly and assist with optics experiments and projects.
Study and Review Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
Electromagnetism is a foundational topic that will be covered early on in the course. A review of Maxwell's Equations will ensure that you understand the foundational ideas on which more advanced topics build.
Browse courses on
Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture notes and textbook chapters on Maxwell's Equations.
- Solve practice problems involving Maxwell's Equations.
- Watch online videos and tutorials on Maxwell's Equations.
Organize Course Materials
Show steps
This course is very quantitative and has a lot of moving parts. Keeping your materials organized will help you maintain focus and retain the information presented in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a dedicated folder for the course on your computer.
- Organize files within the folder by topic or module.
- Create a system for naming files so that you can easily find what you need.
Optics: Light and Lasers
Show steps
Review foundational optics concepts by reading this seminal text.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Make a list of the main topics to be covered in the course.
- Read the first chapter of the book.
- Identify the key concepts and definitions in the chapter.
- Summarize the chapter in your own words.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Visualizing Optics Concepts
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of optics concepts by watching and interacting with online tutorials that use visualizations.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the optics concepts you want to learn more about.
- Find online tutorials that present these concepts using visualizations.
- Watch and interact with the tutorials.
- Take notes and annotate the tutorials.
Solving Problems in Optics
Show steps
Work through a variety of practice problems to improve your problem-solving skills in optics.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the relevant concepts and principles for the problem.
- Set up the problem mathematically.
- Solve the problem.
- Check your answer.
Optics Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with your peers to discuss and understand optics concepts in a group setting.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of peers who are interested in optics.
- Meet regularly to discuss optics concepts.
- Work together to solve problems and understand difficult concepts.
Optics Lab Report
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of optics principles by designing and conducting an optics experiment and writing a lab report.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose an optics experiment to conduct.
- Design the experiment and write a procedure.
- Conduct the experiment and collect data.
- Analyze the data and draw conclusions.
- Write a lab report that includes your procedure, data, and conclusions.
Optics Workshop
Show steps
Attend a workshop that provides hands-on experience with optics equipment and techniques.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an optics workshop that fits your interests and skill level.
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and participate actively.
- Take notes and ask questions.
Volunteer at an Optics Lab
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to the optics community by volunteering at an optics lab.
Browse courses on
Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an optics lab that welcomes volunteers.
- Contact the lab and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Complete any necessary training or orientation.
- Volunteer regularly and assist with optics experiments and projects.
Career center
Learners who complete Physics of Light and Materials will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Electro-Optical Engineer
Electro-Optical Engineer
Electro-Optical Engineers design, develop, and test optical systems such as lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how optical systems work. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Electro-Optical Engineers. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as an Electro-Optical Engineer.
Photonics Engineer
Photonics Engineer
Photonics Engineers design, develop, and test devices that use light to transmit information. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how photonic devices work. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Photonics Engineers. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Photonics Engineer.
Optical Engineer
Optical Engineer
Optical Engineers design and develop optical systems for a variety of applications, including imaging, telecommunications, and medical imaging. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how optical systems work. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Optical Engineers. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as an Optical Engineer.
Laser Physicist
Laser Physicist
Laser Physicists research and develop lasers, which are devices that emit light in a very concentrated and powerful beam. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how lasers work. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Laser Physicists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Laser Physicist.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials for a variety of applications, including optics, electronics, and energy. This course introduces the physics of light and materials, which is essential for understanding how materials interact with light. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Materials Scientists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Materials Scientist.
Optometrist
Optometrist
Optometrists examine eyes and prescribe corrective lenses to improve vision. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how the eye works and how corrective lenses can improve vision. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Optometrists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as an Optometrist.
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is essential for understanding how the eye works and how eye diseases can be treated. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Ophthalmologists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as an Ophthalmologist.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge and develop new technologies. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a fundamental part of many scientific disciplines. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Research Scientists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Research Scientist.
Physicist
Physicist
Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature and the universe. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a fundamental part of physics. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, which are all important concepts for Physicists. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Physicist.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science to students at all levels, from elementary school to college. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a fundamental part of science education. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Science Teachers. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Science Teacher.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create written materials that explain complex technical concepts to a non-technical audience. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a complex technical concept. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Technical Writers. Taking this course will help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Technical Writer.
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers help customers select and purchase products and services. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a complex technical concept that is often involved in the sale of products and services. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Sales Engineers. Taking this course may help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Sales Engineer.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and marketing of new products. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a complex technical concept that is often involved in the development of new products. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Product Managers. Taking this course may help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Product Manager.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys help clients obtain patents for their inventions. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a complex technical concept that is often involved in patent applications. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Patent Attorneys. Taking this course may help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Patent Attorney.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for the development and execution of marketing campaigns. This course introduces the physics of waves and light, which is a complex technical concept that is often involved in the development of marketing campaigns. The course covers topics such as electromagnetic plane waves, the Fresnel equations, and polarization, all of which are important concepts for Marketing Managers. Taking this course may help you build a strong foundation in the physics of light and materials, which can prepare you for a career as a Marketing Manager.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/37cvbg/physics
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Physics of Light and Materials.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of optics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of optics.
Save
This classic textbook provides a rigorous and comprehensive treatment of the fundamental principles of optics. It valuable resource for students who are interested in pursuing a career in optics or a related field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of photonics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of photonics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of electromagnetism, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of electromagnetism.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of quantum mechanics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of thermodynamics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of thermodynamics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of mathematical methods for physicists, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of mathematical methods for physicists.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of partial differential equations for scientists and engineers, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of partial differential equations for scientists and engineers.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of fluid dynamics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of fluid dynamics.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of solid state physics, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of solid state physics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of materials science and engineering, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of materials science and engineering.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of chemistry, covering both the theoretical and experimental aspects of the subject. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the fundamental principles of chemistry.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/37cvbg/physics
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Effort
8 weeks, 5 hours per week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rice University
Instructor
Jason Hafner
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Physics of Waves and Optics. It's comprised of three courses:
- Physics of Oscillators and Waves
- Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics
- Physics of Light and Materials (viewing)
Good to know
Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the physics of waves and light
Covers advanced topics such as Electromagnetic Plane Waves, the Fresnel Equations, and Polarization, preparing learners for upcoming introductory physics courses or more advanced courses in physics
Provides a comprehensive study of the physics of waves and light, exploring topics that are standard in many introductory physics courses
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