655-101 Optical Systems

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

620-141 Intermediate Mathematics A or 620-142 Intermediate Mathematics B or equivalent

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

The objective of this subject is to enable students to understand the passage of light through optical systems, the formation of optical images and the principal optical phenomena. It includes the study of Gaussian optics, the aberrations of optical systems and image quality, diffraction, interference, polarisation and thin film and fibre optics. This knowledge will be applied to a study of common optical instruments and the optics of the human eye. The practical classes are designed to help students understand the concepts discussed in lectures and to give them experience in the manipulation of optical systems and in optical calculations.

Assessment

A three hour written examination at the end of the semester. There are weekly tests associated with the practical classes which together with an assessment of practical work will contribute 30% of the final mark. A pass must be obtained for the practical work.

Prescribed Texts

• Smith, G and Atchison, D A, The Eye and Visual Optical Instruments. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1997.