Experimental Physics S6

Practical work in wave optics studies interference phenomena using Michelson and Fabry-Pérot interferometers as an application of high-resolution spectroscopy. (Michelson interferometer and Fabry-Pérot interferometer practical work)

Interference phenomena are also recorded on holographic plates for the reproduction and study of holograms. (Holography lab)

The polarization of light is studied and used to examine birefringent materials (such as calcite), liquid crystals, isotropic materials under stress (induced birefringence), etc. (birefringence practical)

The emission of electromagnetic waves by heated bodies is studied in black body practicals. The temperature of different hot bodies is determined using a pyrometer, spectroscopy, and an infrared camera (for the human body, for example).

Lasers are also studied, including their emission and their longitudinal and transverse modes, either on a "fixed" cavity or on an open and adjustable cavity. (HeNe laser lab work I and II)

The propagation speed of an intensity-modulated electromagnetic wave is measured by measuring the phase shift of its modulation induced by its propagation. (TP speed of light)

Objects are analyzed using Fourier optics, which, after filtering, allows certain details to be highlighted or hidden. The study is also compared to digital Fourier filtering (TP strioscopy).

Finally, the property of certain substances, when subjected to a magnetic field, to deflect the plane of polarization of light passing through them is studied in the Faraday effect lab.

Become familiar with light analysis instruments such as spectrometers, power meters, spectrum analyzers, CCDs, pyrometers, etc., which are commonly used in industry and research.  

Put into practice the theoretical concepts acquired during the first three years of the bachelor's degree by handling legendary optical instruments that are still used today in cutting-edge technology and research.

At the end of their training, students should be able to adjust and understand their observations and take measurements using the instruments they have studied. They will be familiar with the physical phenomena involved and exploited in the instrument, enabling them to take accurate measurements.

Some manipulations are simple and do not require special instruments for observation, but involve fundamental phenomena that must be named and understood, and require a protocol for demonstrating these phenomena that must be reproducible and understandable.

1. Geometric optics: Snell-Descartes law. Image formation by lenses/mirrors. Optical path.
2. Wave optics: Plane waves and plane wave distribution. Interference between two or more waves. Fraunhofer diffraction.
3. Mathematics: Fourier Transform

Recommended prerequisites:

      Polarization of light (polarizer, wave plates (quarter-wave, half-wave). Concepts of Fourier optics (time/frequency, real space/wave vector). Fabry-Pérot (finesse, free spectral range). How a laser works (population inversion, spontaneous/stimulated emission).

CC (1/3) TP Exam (2/3)

Practical work: 36 hours