OVERVIEW

The Applied Optics course provides an introduction to some of the most important optical techniques that find application in several research fields and in manufacturing processes. The arguments of the program are considered both theoretically and in the laboratory practice.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Understanding some of the main optical techniques with analytical and imaging applications.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Nowadays these techniques find implementation in very high performance instruments that, on the other hand, they are closed with respect to the operator’s action. The peculiar skills of the physicist can take a special value providing a proper knowledge of the underlying principles and critical thinking towards the real limitations of the techniques.

Teaching methods

Applied Optics is a 60-hour course divided into theoretical and laboratory classes. Laboratory classes provide both a practical demonstration of the arguments introduced theoretically and the possibility to try them independently with pre-arranged experienxces. 

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Introduction to Fourier transforms, their numerical implementation and to linear systems.
• Interference
• Michelson’s interferometer and temporal coherence
• White light interferometry
• FT spectrometry
• Young’s interference and spatial coherence
• Van Cittert-Zernike Theorem
• Fabry-Pérot interferometer
• The diffraction grating e dispersive spectroscopy
• Light propagation and the diffraction integral
• The theory of imaging
• The thin lens
• Lateral and axial resolution in optical systems
• Holography and digital holography
• Spatial filtering
• Polarization of light
• Jones’ calculus
• Stokes’ parameter and Poincaré sphere

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

M. Born and E. Wolf, “Principles of optics”, Cambridge University Press.

J.W. Goodman, “Introduction to Fourier optics”, Mc. Graw-Hill.

Exam Board

LUCA REPETTO (President)

ELENA ANGELI

FLAVIO FONTANELLI (President Substitute)

Teaching methods

Applied Optics is a 60-hour course divided into theoretical and laboratory classes. Laboratory classes provide both a practical demonstration of the arguments introduced theoretically and the possibility to try them independently with pre-arranged experienxces. 

Exam description

Laboratory work on an argument proposed by the students and whose execution details are planned with the teacher, followed by an oral exam. Starting from the proposal, and during its implementation, the student is invited to use the critical thinking, the knowledge and the practical skills that were learnt during the course. In the first part of the oral exam, the student presents his/her work, pointing out the difficulties that have been encountered and solutions that have been chosen. In the following part of the oral exam, this discussion is extended to the other topics considered in the course.

Assessment methods

For the evaluation, the requirement is to carry out a short experimental work and to undergo an oral exam where the student shall show a proper knowledge of the course topics. Minimum marks required to pass the exam is 18/30. In order to achieve 30/30 or 30/30 cum laude an excellent knowledge is required.