We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics

Jason Hafner

This third 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 third course covers the Lens Equation, Image Formation, Interference, and Diffraction . Each of the three 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.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Geometrical Optics

Interference

Diffraction

Geometrical and Physical Optics Exam

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces the physics of waves and light, which is standard in optics

Develops mathematical laws and conservation principles in the context of geometrical and physical optics, which are core skills in physics

Provides experience in solving physics problems with graphical analysis, algebra, vector analysis, and calculus, which are core skills in physics

Covers the Lens Equation, Image Formation, Interference, and Diffraction, which are key concepts in optics

Employs video lectures, conceptual quizzes, and homework problems, which are multi-modal learning materials

Offers an exam at the end of the course, which allows learners to test their understanding

Save this course

Save Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics to your list so you can find it easily later:

Save

Activities

Coming soon We're preparing activities for Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics. These are activities you can do either before, during, or after a course.

Career center

Learners who complete Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Optical Engineer

Optical Engineers analyze, design, and oversee construction of optical devices, such as lenses, lasers, sensors, and illumination systems. An understanding of geometrical and physical optics is essential for this role, as these principles determine the performance and limitations of optical systems. Graduates with this knowledge will be equipped to participate in all aspects of optical product development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Optical Engineer

Laser Scientist

Laser Scientists innovate, analyze, and develop laser systems for a variety of industrial, medical, and research applications. A strong foundation in physical optics, including topics such as laser propagation, beam shaping, and nonlinear optics, is vital for success in this role. This course provides a thorough grounding in these concepts, preparing graduates for advanced studies or entry-level positions in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Laser Scientist

Photonics Engineer

Photonics Engineers design, build, and implement devices, materials, and systems that harness the power of light to solve technological challenges in fields such as telecommunications, imaging, and energy. A deep understanding of geometrical and physical optics, including principles of lens design and light propagation, is essential for this role. Graduates with this coursework will be well-equipped to contribute to the development of cutting-edge photonic technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photonics Engineer

Optical Designer

Optical Designers use their knowledge of optics to create lens systems and optical instruments for a wide range of applications. A thorough understanding of geometrical optics and the principles of image formation is crucial for this role. This course provides a strong foundation in these concepts, enabling graduates to effectively design and optimize optical systems for various uses.

See salaries and explore the career path for Optical Designer

Imaging Scientist

Imaging Scientists utilize optical principles to develop imaging technologies for various industries, including medical, manufacturing, and entertainment. Mastery of geometrical optics for image formation, diffraction, and lens design is crucial for success in this domain. This course lays a strong foundation in these concepts, enabling graduates to innovate and contribute to the advancement of imaging technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Imaging Scientist

Optical Physicist

Optical Physicists research and develop new optical phenomena and devices for use in various technologies. An understanding of the principles governing the behavior of light at different scales is essential. Graduates who have a firm grasp of geometrical and physical optics, including interference, diffraction, and lens design, will be well-positioned to make significant contributions in research and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Optical Physicist

Electro-Optical Engineer

Electro-Optical Engineers apply the principles of both electrical engineering and optics to design and develop devices and systems such as sensors, displays, and communication systems. This course provides a fundamental understanding of physical optics, including the principles of diffraction, interference, and polarization, which are crucial for understanding the behavior of light in electro-optical devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electro-Optical Engineer

Technical Sales Engineer

Technical Sales Engineers provide technical support to customers and help them make informed decisions about optical products. They must have a solid understanding of optical principles and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly. This course provides graduates with a comprehensive understanding of geometrical and physical optics, enabling them to effectively communicate with customers and assist them in selecting the right optical solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Sales Engineer

Optical Technician

Optical Technicians assist scientists and engineers with the assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical instruments and equipment. They must have a basic understanding of the principles governing the behavior of light. This course provides foundational knowledge in geometrical and physical optics, equipping technicians with the skills to perform their duties more effectively and troubleshoot problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Optical Technician

Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspectors ensure that optical products meet specifications and quality standards. They must have a basic knowledge of optics to inspect for defects and ensure that products perform as intended. This course provides foundational knowledge in geometrical and physical optics, equipping inspectors with the skills to assess optical quality effectively, leading to improved product quality and customer satisfaction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Control Inspector

Lensmaker

Lensmakers grind and polish lenses for various optical instruments. They must have a basic understanding of the principles of lens design to produce lenses with the desired properties. This course provides foundational knowledge in geometrical optics, including the principles of lens design and image formation, enabling lensmakers to fabricate lenses that meet specifications and perform as intended.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lensmaker

Optometrist

Optometrists examine eyes, diagnose and treat vision problems, and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. While a background in geometrical optics is not typically required for optometry school, it can be beneficial. This course provides a foundational understanding of image formation and the principles of lenses, which may enhance a prospective optometrist's knowledge and preparation for their studies and practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Optometrist

Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care. They diagnose and treat eye diseases and perform eye surgeries. While geometrical optics is not directly required, a basic understanding can be beneficial for understanding how the eye functions and how optical instruments are used in eye care. This course provides foundational knowledge in geometrical optics and lens design, providing ophthalmologists with a supplementary knowledge base for their practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ophthalmologist

Architect

Architects design buildings and other structures, ensuring their functionality, safety, and aesthetics. While geometrical optics is not typically required for architectural studies, it can be beneficial for understanding natural and artificial lighting in buildings. This course provides a foundational understanding of light propagation and image formation, enabling architects to design spaces that optimize lighting conditions for occupants.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Interior designer

Interior Designers plan and execute interior spaces, focusing on aesthetics and functionality. While geometrical optics is not typically required for interior design, it can be beneficial for understanding how lighting affects the ambiance and mood of a space. This course provides a foundational understanding of light propagation and image formation, enabling interior designers to create spaces that effectively utilize natural and artificial lighting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer

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 Geometrical and Physical Optics.

Principles of Optics

Save

This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of optics, from the basic concepts of light and its interaction with matter to the more advanced topics of interference, diffraction, and polarization. It valuable resource for students and researchers in physics and optics.

Principles of Optics: 60th Anniversary Edition

Hardcover

$$$

Principles of Optics: Electromagnetic Theory of...

Paperback

$$$

Principles of Optics: 60th Anniversary Edition

Kindle Edition

$$$

Schaum's Outline of College Physics, Twelfth Edition

Save

This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of optics, from the basic concepts of light and its interaction with matter to the more advanced topics of interference, diffraction, and polarization. It valuable resource for students and researchers in physics and optics.

Schaum's Outline of College Physics, Twelfth...

Paperback

Schaum's Outline of College Physics, Twelfth...

Kindle Edition

Aeroacoustics of Low Mach Number Flows

Save

This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of geometrical optics, including the laws of reflection and refraction, the properties of lenses and mirrors, and the aberrations of optical systems. It valuable resource for students and researchers in physics and optics.

Physics of Geometrical and Physical Optics

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses