University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 9.00 am Tue, Thu and 3.00 pm Fri (weeks 10 -12)TBC

The physics of polymers and liquid crystals is covered, showing the way to the use of semi-conducting polymers as light emitters, and the use of liquid crystals in displays and spatial light modulators. The nonlinear optics section of this module describes the physical ideas and application of second and third order nonlinear optics, including phenomena such as harmonic generation, parametric gain, saturated absorption, nonlinear refraction, Raman scattering, and optical solitons. The final section looks at second order nonlinear effects being exploited in optical parametric amplifiers and oscillators in the optical and THz regions.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 lectures and occasional tutorials.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 80%, Coursework = 20%


Re-assessment: Oral Re-Assessment, capped at grade 7

Personnel