FY801: Laser physics and laser spectroscopy (5 ECTS)

STADS: 07002201

Level
Master's level course

Teaching period
The course is offered in the spring semester.
3rd quarter.

Teacher responsible
Email: vvp@ifk.sdu.dk

Timetable
Show entire timetable
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Prerequisites:
None

Academic preconditions:
Knowledge of Electromagnetism I (FY 503) and Thermal physics (FY509) is assumed.

Course introduction
In this course the students will get a basic understanding of the physics of lasers, their unique properties and potential for applications in optical spectroscopy.

Expected learning outcome
After the course the students should be able to:

● Explain and use most basic principals of laser physics and laser spectroscopy
● Determine the wavelength of a laser
● Determine the spectral bandwidth of a laser using Fabry-Perot interferometer
● Measure the internal divergence of a laser beam
● Investigate the mode structure of a laser
● Construct a simple dye laser and make it tunable
● Convert the laser wavelength using technique of frequency doubling
● Obtain and interpret electronic spectra of a simple diatomic molecule
● Propose different ways to apply laser light in spectroscopic experiments

Subject overview
The principles of lasers. The use of lasers in different areas of physics, and spectroscopy with lasers compared to other forms of spectroscopy. The first 3-5 weeks will introduce the background theory in lectures (a total of 20 hours). The experimental part consists of three experimental projects done in groups of 3-4 students, in non-scheduled, but individually planned sessions, a total of 30 hours in the laboratories. The final report will account for the rest of the credits. The key experiments deal with: the properties of continuous lasers with a fixed wavelength and lasers with variable wavelengths; the use of laser light for spectroscopic examination of molecular lithium, through which intra- and intermolecular constants are measured; capabilities and fabrication of pulsed lasers; second harmonic generation; fabrication and use of dye lasers for spectroscopic measurements.

Literature

• Hecht, E: Optics, Addison-Wesley.

Website
This course uses e-learn (blackboard).

Prerequisites for participating in the exam
None

Assessment and marking:
(a) Report, passed/not passed, internal marking by lecturer. The report must be passed in order for one to attend the oral exam.
(b) Oral exam. The report is the starting point. Marks according to the 7-point marking scale, external examiner.
(c) Reexam after 4th quarter.

Expected working hours
The teaching method is based on three phase model.

Forelæsninger, antal timer 20.
Laboratorieøvelser, antal timer ca. 30.
Educational activities

Language
This course is taught in English.

Course enrollment
See deadline of enrolment.

Tuition fees for single courses
See fees for single courses.