NPHY 222 EC
OPTICS AND WAVES
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Study guide compiled by: Prof SI Loubser
Copyright © 2019 edition. Review date 2023.
North-West University
No part of this study guide may be reproduced in any form or in any way without the written permission of the publishers.
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MODULE CONTENTS
Module information .......................................................................................................................................... ii
Welcome ......................................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Module outcomes ............................................................................................................................................. ii
Work method and how to study .................................................................................................................... iii
Participation mark and final mark ................................................................................................................. iv
Study material ................................................................................................................................................... v
Time schedule .................................................................................................................................................. v
Content of the module .................................................................................................................................... vi
Icons ................................................................................................................................................................ vii
Warning against plagiarism .......................................................................................................................... vii
Study unit 1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 1
Study unit 2 Geometrical optics .................................................................................................... 2
Study unit 3 The wave equation..................................................................................................... 3
Study unit 4 Interference ................................................................................................................. 5
Study unit 5 Diffraction .................................................................................................................... 7
Study unit 6 Polarisation ................................................................................................................. 9
Study unit 7 Beats and the doppler effect .................................................................................10
Study unit 8 Modes .........................................................................................................................11
Study unit 9 Different waves .........................................................................................................12
Study unit 10 Lasers .........................................................................................................................13
i
Module information
Module code NPHY 222
Module credits 8
Module name Optics and Waves
Name of lecturer(s) Dr JA Adesina (MC) Prof SI Loubser (PC)
Office telephone
Email address [Link]@[Link] [Link]@[Link]
Building and Office nr A4, 2049 (MC) G5, K214 (PC)
Consulting hours Please make an appointment by email
Welcome
Welcome at NPHY222, which deals with Optics and Waves. This module links to
NPHY121.
Most of you will probably not work in the field of optics – so why is this course
necessary?
• Physics teaches you various analytic skills which will be useful in almost any
field.
• Some of the principles and mathematical techniques you will learn can be used in
a much broader field.
• Understanding the fundamental principles which descibe nature, makes it
possible to understand and appreciate a lot of things we see in our daily life.
The purpose of this module is not to ‘indoctrinate’ you with physics principles, but to
teach you to think critically and to understand where the principles come from.
Module outcomes:
Knowledge:
At the end of this module, students will have acquired a formal mathematical
knowledge of optics by having studied the topics of wave theory, interference,
diffraction and polarisation of light, as well as laser physics.
ii
Skills:
In the accompanying practical sessions, students describe and measure a number of
concepts and phenomena from geometrical optics, and they investigate certain laws
governing these phenomena. They use graphical modelling and presentation of the
data to deliver a computerised report on their observations.
Work method and how to study
Mathematical symbols and formulas
Description of nature by means of defined mathematical symbols, formulas or
equations forms a powerful communication method in physics.
Mathematical formulations are frequently used because they are compact
representations of relevant mutual relationships. A formula is extremely useful and a
forceful medium in the hands of physicist, but you must remember that physics is not
only a lot of mathematical formulas. You must describe the mathematical symbols,
formulas, equations and sketches fully at all times, because they ALWAYS have
physical meaning. You should take this matter seriously!
Make sure that you always write down the meaning of the mathematical symbols you
are using. In tests and examinations, the examiner will also want to know if you
understand the meaning and contents of the mathematical symbols that you are writing
down. Therefore, please take heed of the meaning and contents the lecturer attributes
to mathematical symbols and the way in which relations between physical quantities
are read in mathematical equations. You must familiarise yourself with these skills and
be able to execute them.
Core notes
If you want to complete this course without any problems, you ought to prepare for
each lecture and then compile a set of core notes for yourself from the textbook, the
study guide and the lecturer’s lectures.
The study guide lists the relevant derivations you must know and be able to reproduce
during tests and the examination. The marks you earn depend on the completeness of
the derivation. Study the derivation and make your own summary by considering the
following:
• What are the initial conditions? Typically, these start with ‘Consider a
particle/charge …’
• Make a sketch and explain.
• With which law and/or equation of motion should you start? Apply it, and always
explain the symbols.
• Do not write down mathematical equations only. Explain the physics of these
equations and explain what you are doing and give reasons why you are doing it.
• Demonstrate and explain how you are progressing from one step to the following.
• The derivation is only completed after you have proved what has been asked,
usually a final expression or equation.
Solution of problems
iii
By answering the questions at the end of each study unit and doing the problems, you
develop an understanding of and insight into the work that has been dealt with in that
unit. Try to solve the exercises and assignments of each study unit independently to
ensure that you understand and are able to apply the laws and principles.
Class procedure
This comprises self-activity under the guidance of the lecturer. The textbook is mostly
followed. If it is insufficient, additional notes are provided. You will therefore be able to
implement self-study.
You must remember that you are taking this course to learn physics, i.e. to acquire
knowledge you will use again later. Do not squander the opportunity by thinking you
only have to pass tests and examinations.
Participation mark and final mark
Pass requirements:
A module mark of at least 50% – provided 40% or more is obtained in the examination
– is required to pass the module. The ratio of the examination mark to the participation
mark is 1:1.
Participation mark
The participation mark is compiled from the final mark for the practical sessions and
the final mark for the theory.
The mark for the theory is compiled from
• Homework which will be given after some lectures in class and also on E-fundi.
The home work must be submitted for evaluation within one week.
• 3 Scheduled large class tests
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Admission requirements for the examination:
To get admission to the examination you must obtain a proof of participation. Full
requirements for this are set out in the yearbook of the Faculty of Natural Sciences.
One requirement is a participation mark of at least 40%. Note that completion of
practical work and satisfactory class attendance are required for a proof of
participation.
Absence
Conscientious class attendance by students who are successful is given as one of the
main reasons for their success. If you were unable to write a test because of sickness
(or other legal reasons) you must show the lecturer a medical certificate (or other
supporting documentation in the case of another legal reason) as soon as possible.
Medical certificates and other supporting documentation must be submitted
within ten days from the date of absence.
Study material
Prescribed textbook
• Halliday, Resnich, Walker, J. “Principles of Physics” 10th Edition. ISBN: 978-1-
118-23074-9
Addisional reading for self-interest:
• Feynman, Leighton, Sands, “The Feynman Lectures on Physics” Volume 1.
Available online at [Link]
E-fundi
The study guide, homework, time schedules, additional notes as well as
memorandums will be made available on e-fundi.
Time schedule
This module consists of 8 credits, which are equal to a minimum of 80 study hours, or
at least 5 hours per week. However, the amount of time that you actually have to spend
on the work to master it will depend on your abilities and especially your commitment
and self-discipline.
v
Content of the module
The table below give a summary of the study units of the course as well as the
textbook chapter that will be used for each study unit. Die chapters in brackets is
additional study material which may assist you in your self-study.
Study Halliday, Resnich, Feynman
# Periods
Unit Walker 10th Edition Lectures
Introduction (9th Ed: 33-2, 33-8)
1 (26)
p. 876 – 878, 33-5
Geometrical optics (9th Ed: 34)
2 (27)
34
Wave equation (9th Ed: 16)
3 (47)
16-1, 16-4, 16-5 and 16-6
Interference (9th Ed: 35)
4 (29)
35
Diffraction (9th Ed: 36)
5 (30)
36
Polarisation (9th Ed: 33-7, 33-10)
6 (33)
33-4, 33-6, 33-7
Beats & Doppler effect (9th Ed: 17-8)
7 (48)
17-6, 17-7
Modes (9th Ed: 16-12)
8 (49)
16-7
Different waves (9th Ed: 17-10)
9 (51)
17-8
Lasers (9th Ed: 40-11, 40-12)
10
40-7
Exam: Study Units 1-
10
vi
Icons
Time allocation Learning outcomes
Assessment /
Study material
Assignments
Individual exercise Group Activity
Example Reflection
Warning against plagiarism
ASSIGNMENTS ARE INDIVIDUAL TASKS AND NOT GROUP ACTIVITIES.
(UNLESS EXPLICITLY INDICATED AS GROUP ACTIVITIES)
Copying of text from other learners or from other sources (for instance the study guide,
prescribed material or directly from the internet) is not allowed – only brief quotations
are allowed and then only if indicated as such.
You should reformulate existing text and use your own words to explain what you
have read. It is not acceptable to retype existing text and just acknowledge the source
in a footnote – you should be able to relate the idea or concept, without repeating the
original author to the letter.
The aim of the assignments is not the reproduction of existing material, but to ascertain
whether you have the ability to integrate existing texts, add your own interpretation
and/or critique of the texts and offer a creative solution to existing problems.
Be warned: students who submit copied text will obtain a mark of zero for the
assignment and disciplinary steps may be taken by the Faculty and/or
University. It is also unacceptable to do somebody else’s work, to lend your work
to them or to make your work available to them to copy – be careful and do not
make your work available to anyone!
Plagiarism is a serious offence and you should familiarise yourself with the
plagiarism policy of the NWU. [Link]
Please refer to the Policy on Academic Integrity which is found on the following
website: [Link]
management/policy/2P-2.4.3.2_Academic%20integrity_e.pdf
vii
viii
Study unit 1
Study unit 1
INTRODUCTION
Study hours
4 hours: 1 class period, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics, p. 876 – 878 and Section 33-5.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 26
([Link]
Learning outcomes
33–1: Electromagnetic radiation (HRW 876 – 878)
• Know the electromagnetic spectrum:
Where does light, radio, infrared, ultraviolet and X-rays fit into the spectrum?
What is the wavelength of the different waves?
What does electromagnetic waves consist of?
Outcome 33.01 on p. 876
33–5: Reflection and refraction (HRW 33-5)
• Outcomes 33.36 to 33.44 p. 894
Individual activity
Classwork: Problem 33.03 p. 899
Homework: 33.21, 33.25
1
Study unit 1
Study unit 2
GEOMETRICAL OPTICS
Study hours
6 hours: 3 class periods, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Chapter 34.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 27
([Link]
Learning outcomes
34–1: Images and plane mirrors
• Outcomes 34.01 to 34.05 p. 910
34–2: Spherical mirrors
• Outcomes 34.06 to 34.17 p. 914
• Proof Eq 34-6 p. 919
34–3: Spherical refracting surfaces
• Outcomes 34.18 to 34.22 p. 920
34–4: Thin lenses
• Outcomes 34.23 to 34.35 p. 923
34–5: Optical instruments
• Outcomes 34.36 to 34.44 p. 930
34–6: Three proofs
• Must know all 3 proofs
Individual activity
Classwork: Problems 34.01 p919, 34.02 p922, 34.03 p928, 34.04 p929 (self)
Homework: 34.1
2
Study unit 2
Study unit 3
THE WAVE EQUATION
Study hours
5 hours: 2 class periods, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Sections 16-1, 16-4, 16-5 and 16-6.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 47
([Link]
Learning outcomes
16-1: Waves
• Revision of NPHY121
• Outcomes 16.01 to 16.13 p. 392
• What are transverse and longitudinal waves
• Must be able to mathematically describe a wave, with period, wavelength,
amplitude, phase, etc
• Must be able to derive v=/k
16-4 : The wave equation
• Outcomes 16.17 p. 404
• What does the wave equation look like?
• Derivation of the wave equation
16-5 : Superposition and interference
• Outcomes 16.18 to 16.21 p. 406
• State the principal of superposition
• What happens if 2 waves with the same frequency move through the same
medium?
• When does constructive/destructive interference happen?
3
Study unit 3
16-6 : Phasors
• Outcomes 16.22 to 16.24 p. 410
• Must be able to explain and add phasors
Individual activity
Classwork: Problem 16.01 p398, 16.04 p409, 16.05 p412
Homework: Will be provided in class
4
Study unit 4
Study unit 4
INTERFERENCE
Study hours
6 hours: 3 class periods, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics, Chapter 35.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 29
([Link]
Learning outcomes
35-1 : Light as a Wave
• Outcomes 35.01 to 35.12 p. 943
• Why can’t we use geometric optics to explain interference?
• Know and understand Huygens’ principle
• Must be able to derive the law of refraction and reflection using Huygens’
principle.
• How does the speed, wavelength and frequency of light change when it
propagates in a medium with an index of refraction n?
• Understand the concept of phase difference between two waves.
35-2 : Young’s Interference Experiment
• Outcomes 35.13 to 35.22 p. 949
• What is diffraction and when will it occur?
• Know the setup of the experiment.
• Must be able to explain what the interefence patterns look like and why.
• Be able to derive the position of the maximum and minimum points
mathematically.
5
Study unit 4
35-3 : Intensity of Double-Slit Interference
• Outcomes 35.23 to 35.28 p. 955
• What is coherent and incoherent light? Which light sources will give coherent /
incoherent light?
• When will interference take place?
• Understand how two or more waves that interfere can be represented by
phasors.
• What will the intensity be if the waves are incoherent?
• Proof Eq 35-22 and 35-23
35-4 : Interference from Thin Films
• Outcomes 35.29 to 35.34 p. 959
• Be able to explain why inteference occurs from thin films.
• What happens to the phase of the wave when it reflects?
• What must the thickness be for constructive / destructive interference? You
must be able to derive the equations.
35-5 : Michelson’s Interferometer
• Outcomes 35.35 to 35.37 p. 966
• What is an interferometer?
• Must know the setup of Michelson’s Interferometer and be able to explain what
happens to the light as it goes through the interferometer.
Individual activity
Classwork: Problems 35.01 p948, 35.02 p953, 35.05 p954 (self), 35.04 p959, 35.05
p963, 35.06 and .07 p964 (both self).
Homework: Will be provided in class
6
Study unit 6
Study unit 5
DIFFRACTION
Study hours
6 hours: 3 class periods, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Chapter 36.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 30
([Link]
Learning outcomes
36-1 : Diffraction by a Single Slit
• Outcomes 36.01 to 36.07 p. 975
• What is diffraction and when is it encountered?
• What does the diffraction pattern of a singe slit look like?
• Must be able to derive the position of the minimum points.
36-2 : Intensity in Single-Slit Diffraction
• Outcomes 36.08 to 36.12 p. 980
• Must be able to discuss the intensity qualitatively using phasors.
• Must be able to derive the equations (36-5 and 36-6) for the intensity.
36-3 : Diffraction by a Circular Aperture
• Outcomes 36.13 to 36.17 p. 984
• What does the diffraction pattern of a circular aperture looks like?
• What is Rayleigh’s criterion and what does it mean?
36-4 : Diffraction by a Double Slit
• Outcomes 36.18 to 36.21 p. 988
• What does the diffraction pattern of two slits look like?
7
Study unit 5
36-5 : Diffraction Gratings
• Outcomes 36.22 to 36.31 p. 992
• What is a diffraction grating?
• What happens to light that propagates through a diffraction grating?
• Must be able to derive the angles of the m-th order maxima.
• How wide is the maxima?
• What is a grating spectroscope?
36-6 : Grids: dispersion and resolution
• Outcomes 36.32 to 36.37 p. 995
36-7 : X-Ray Diffraction
• Outcomes 36.38 to 36.43 p. 998
• When will X-ray diffraction take place?
• Must be able to derive Bragg’s law for X-ray diffraction.
Individual activity
Classwork: Problems 36.01 p979, 36.02 p984, 36.03 p987, 36.04 p988 (self), 36.05
p991, 36.06 p997
Homework: Will be provided in class
8
Study unit 6
Study unit 6
POLARISATION
Study hours
4 hours: 1 class period, 2 hours self-study and 1 hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Sections 33-4, 33-6 & 33-7
• Reading: Feynman Lectures 33
([Link]
Learning outcomes
33–4: Polarisation
• Outcomes 33.28 to 33.35 p889
33–6: Total internal reflection
• Outcomes 33.45 to 33.47 p900
33–7: Polarisation through reflection
• Outcomes 33.48 to 33.51 p901
• Must be able to derive Brewster’s law.
Individual activity
Classwork: Problem 33.02 p893
Homework: Will be provided in class
9
Study unit 7
Study unit 7
BEATS AND THE DOPPLER EFFECT
Study hours
2 ½ hours: 1 class period, 1 hour self-study and ½ hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Sections 17-6 and 17-7.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 48
([Link]
Learning outcomes
17–6: Beats
• Outcomes 17.28 to 17.30 p. 440
17–7: Doppler Effect
• Outcomes 17.31 to 17.34 p. 442
Individual activity
Classwork: Problems 17.06 p442, 17.07 p446
Homework: Will be provided in class
10
Study unit 6
Study unit 8
MODES
Study hours
2 ½ hours: 1 class period, 1 hour self-study and ½ hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Section 16-7
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 49
([Link]
Learning outcomes
16–7: Standing waves and resonance
• Outcomes 16.25 to 16.32 p. 413
• What is a harmonic oscillator, and which applications can you find in other
fields of Physics?
Individual activity
Classwork: Problem 16.08 p417
Homework: Will be provided in class
11
Study unit 11
Study unit 9
DIFFERENT WAVES
Study hours
2 ½ hours: 1 class period, 1 hour self-study and ½ hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Section 17-8.
• Reading: Feynman Lecture 51
([Link]
Learning outcomes
17–8: Supersonic speed and shock waves
• Outcomes 17.35 to 17.37 p. 447
Individual activity
Homework: Will be provided in class
12
Study unit 2
Study unit 10
LASERS
Study hours
2 ½ hours: 1 class period, 1 hour self-study and ½ hour homework
Study material
• Principles of Physics Section 40-7.
Learning outcomes
40-7: Lasers
• Outcomes 40.45 to 40.52 p. 1124
Individual activity
Classwork: Problem 40.04 p1128
Homework: Will be provided in class
13
