Rayf Shiell - Optical Physics Group, Trent University

PHYS 4240H: Modern Optics

Instructor Information

Rayf Shiell; rayfshiell@trentu.ca, 705-748-1011 x7023

Course Information

Summary: Coherence and fluctuations of light sources: interferometers. Interaction of light with matter: Einstein coefficients and quantum-mechanical treatment of matter. Basic laser theory: absorption and gain, saturation, three and four-level laser systems. Longitudinal modes. Specific laser systems. Concepts in modern quantum optics. This course builds upon content matter from the following pre- or co-requisite courses: PHYS 2610H: Introductory Quantum Physics; PHYS-COIS 3200Y: Electricity & magnetism; PHYS-MATH 3150H: Partial differential equations.

The syllabus from the last time I taught this course can be found here, with the schedule of class readings here.

The formula sheet can be found here (also in .docx format for adapting if desired)


2022-2023

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.

2020-2021

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.

2012-2013

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.

2010-2011

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.

2008-2009

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.

2006-2007

The final exam can be found here.
The midterm exam can be found here.