University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2018-2019.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

PH5005 Laser Physics 2

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Normally only taken in the final year of an MPhys or MSci programme involving the School

Planned timetable: 10.00 am Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu (TBC)

Quantitative treatment of laser physics embracing both classical and semiclassical approaches; transient/dynamic behaviour of laser oscillators including relaxation oscillations, amplitude and phase modulation, frequency switching, Q-switching, cavity dumping and mode locking; design analysis of optically-pumped solid state lasers; laser amplifiers including continuous-wave, pulsed and regenerative amplification; dispersion and gain in a laser oscillator - role of the macroscopic polarisation; unstable optical resonators, geometric and diffraction treatments; quantum mechanical description of the gain medium; coherent processes including Rabi oscillations; semiclassical treatment of the laser; tunable lasers.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): It is recommended that you take PH4034 with this module.. Pre-Requisites are compulsory unless you are on a taught postgraduate programme.. Before taking this module you must pass PH3007 and pass PH3061 and pass PH3062

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take PH5180

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 4 lectures or tutorials.

Scheduled learning hours: 40

Guided independent study hours: 110

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2.5-hour (open notes) Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

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

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr B Sinclair, Dr H Ohadi, Dr L O'Faolain

Additional information from school

Please see also the information in the School's Handbook for Honours modules available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php This link also gives access to timetables for the modules.