Lasers and Modern Optics – Physics 452 and Physics 562

Instructor: Tom Weinacht
tweinacht@sunysb.edu
Textbook: Laser Physics by P. W. Milonni J. H. Eberly
Supplemental textbook:  Modern Optics by Grant R. Fowles
Meeting time: Tues and Thurs 9:50-11:10

This course is intended to be an introduction to lasers and modern optics for advanced undergraduates and graduate students. There will be many demonstrations and lab visits. Graduate students taking Physics 562 will solve more challenging problems and have a term paper/project.       

Topics:

I  Classical description of dispersion and Absorption - Lorentz Model
II Two state atoms with classical fields, Density Matrix description
III Emission and Absorption, Rate Equations
IV Laser Oscillation: Gain and Threshold
V Gaussian Beams and Laser Resonators
VI Optical Coherence
VII Specific Systems


 
 Physics 452 Grading:

 

30% Homework

 

30% Midterm Exam

 

40% Final Exam

 

Physics 562 Grading:

25% Homework

 

20% Term Paper/Project

 

20% Midterm Exam

 

35% Final Exam

 

If you have a physical, psychiatric/emotional, medical or learning
disability that may impact on your ability to carry out assigned course
work, I would urge that you contact the staff in the Disabled Student
Services office (DSS), Room 123 ECC (Educational Communication Center),
632-6748/TDD.  DSS will review your concerns and determine, with you, what
accommodations are necessary and appropriate.  All information and
documentation of disability is confidential.