Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Electromagnetism and Laser Physics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20ES
Semester
On or OffCampus
Credits
1
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
5.
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
B211-PHY
B2C1-COM
B281-ENV
B261-ENG
B2B1-PHO
B2M1-MAT
B2L1-ELE
B2G1-ENE
B2PS-SCI
B21M-PHY
B23M-COM
B26M-ENG
B2BM-PHO
B2MM-MAT
B2LM-ELE
B2GM-ENE
B2FM-SCI
B2DM-OPT
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
BSc Physics
BSc Computational Physics
BSc Physics with Environmental Science
BSc Engineering Physics
BSc Photonics and Lasers
BSc Mathematical Physics
BSc Physics with Electronic Engineering
BSc Energy Science and Technology
BSc Physical Science
MPhys Physics
MPhys Computational Physics
MPhys Engineering Physics
MPhys Photonics and Lasers
MPhys Mathematical Physics
MPhys Physics with Electronic Engineering
MPhys Energy Science and Technology
MPhys Physical Science
MPhys Optoelectronics and Lasers
BEng & MEng in Electronics and Photonics
7. Aims
To build on earlier knowledge of electromagnetism and instil a knowledge and understanding of the important concepts of laser physics and electromagnetism.
To provide an introduction to essential physical concepts of lasers as a basis for later modules on Laser Physics and Semiconductor Optoelectronics.
1/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Electromagnetism and Laser Physics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20ES
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
8. Syllabus
Guided waves, transverse electric and magnetic modes,
Impedance, reflection coefficient, input impedance.
Antennas: dipole radiation, polarisation, antenna pattern
Elementary light matter interactions (Einstein A & B coefficients)
Longitudinal modes in a Fabry-Perot resonator
Gaussian beams
Complex beam parameter
Gaussian modes in a resonator
Stability of resonator cavities
Elementary introduction to modes and mode splitting.
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Achieve a critical knowledge and understanding of the principal theories of electromagnetism and laser action
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts of electromagnetism
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of lasers
 Integrate previous knowledge from the physics course with the topics discussed in the module
 Analyse advanced problems in electromagnetism and laser physics
 Apply the theory of the module topics to problems or situations not previously encountered
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Electromagnetism and Laser Physics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Personal Abilities
Module
Code
B20ES
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Apply the advanced core knowledge expected of a professional physicist to gain professional level insights,
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and evaluate critically a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use a range of ICT skills with on-line materials and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise significant initiative and independence in carrying out learning activities and researching information
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
(if applicable)
Examination
3 hours
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
100%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
19/04/08
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
2
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