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Headings denoted with an asterisk ( * ) is retrieved from the course syllabus version Autumn 2019
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
The main course content is the interaction of light with atoms, molecules and solids to generate, manipulate and detect light using optical components. The course covers the basics, for future studies on applications such as light sources, sensors or solar cells. Specifically, the content is
How physical processes in a material shape its optical properties such as absorption or refractive index.
How optical transitions in atoms and molecules generate, manipulate and absorb light.
How band structures and optical transitions in crystals generate, manipulate and absorb light.
How light interaction with electrons and phonons create plasmons, excitons and polaritons.
How light interacts with quantum structures such as quantum wells or quantum dots.
Intended learning outcomes
After completing the course, the student should be able to
explain and apply the physical theory of light-matter interaction for evaluation of emission, manipulation and absorption of light in atoms, molecules and solids.
identify and discuss applications of light-matter interaction in photon technologies such as spectroscopy or design of photonic materials and components.
acquire, analyze and present experimental data, while observing general rules of conduct and safety in the laboratory environment.
Learning activities
The course consists of 12 lectures, 5 problem solving sessions, and 2 labs. Homework problems are given after each problem solving session. The course ends with a 5-hour writen exam.
Structure of an atom: energy levels in single-electron and multi-electron atoms, fine and hyperfine structure, influence of external electromagnetic fields, selection rules.
Fox QO pp. 35-46.
Fox OPS Appendix B
Lecture 3
Transition probabilities Spontaneous and induced transitions Einstein coefficients, linewidth, lifetime, broadening mechanisms. resonant atom-photon interaction. Towards applications in solid state lasers.
Fox OPS Appendix B.
Fox QO p.48-59, p. 167-180
Exercises 1
Problems on lectures 1-3
Material for lectures 1-3
Lecture 4
Optical properties of phonons
Fox OPS Ch.10.
Lecture 5
Interband absorption
Fox OPS Ch.3.
Lecture 6
Excitons
Fox OPS Ch.4.
Exercises 2
Problems on lectures 4-6
Material for lectures 4-6
Lecture 7
Interband emission
Fox OPS Ch.5.
Lab 1
Time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy
Lab notes
Lecture 8
Quantum confined systems
Fox OPS Ch.6.
Exercises 3
Problems on lectures 7,8
Material for lectures 7,8
Lecture 9
Free electrons/plasmons
Fox OPS Ch.7
Lecture 10
Energy level structure in molecules, molecular orbitals, vibrational and rotational quantization. Electronic, vibrational and rotational transitions, Franck-Condon principle. Electron states in polyatomic molecules, Towards environmental sensing, bio-medical imaging, THz TDS spectroscopy.
Fox OPS Ch.8.
Demtröder Ch.9-10 extracts
Exercises 4
Problems on lectures 9,10
Material for lectures 9,10
Lecture 11
Molecular solids, vibronic materials, towards OLEDs and femtosecond lasers
LAB1 - Laboratory work, 1.5 credits, Grading scale: P, F
TEN1 - Examination, 6.0 credits, Grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
The examiner, in consultation with the KTH Disability Coordinator (Funka), decides on any adapted examination for students with documented permanent impairment. The examiner may grant another examination form for reexamination of single students.
The section below is not retrieved from the course syllabus:
Laboratory work ( LAB1 )
Two 3-hour lab exercises in teachers' research labs.
Examination ( TEN1 )
5 hour written exam.
Other requirements for final grade
The course is examined by written exam (TEN1; 6 credits, grade scale A / B / C / D / E / Fx / F), as well as approved laboratory work (LAB1; 1.5 credits, grade scale P / F). The rating on TEN1 determines the grade on the course.
Grading criteria/assessment criteria
The final exam consists of 8 problems, each worth 0.5 points. Additional point for the final score comes from homework.
Grading: 4.5 to 5 points – A, 4 to 4.5 points – B, 3.5 to 4 points – C, 3 to 3-5 points – D, 2.5 to 3 points – E, 2-2.5 points – FX, <2 points – F.
Alternatives to missed activities or tasks
Consult the teacher.
Ethical approach
All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
