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Quantum Optics 2

Module PH2026

This module handbook serves to describe contents, learning outcome, methods and examination type as well as linking to current dates for courses and module examination in the respective sections.

Module version of SS 2017

There are historic module descriptions of this module. A module description is valid until replaced by a newer one.

Whether the module’s courses are offered during a specific semester is listed in the section Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature below.

available module versions
SS 2019SS 2017SS 2011

Basic Information

PH2026 is a semester module in German language at Master’s level which is offered in summer semester.

This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.

  • Specific catalogue of special courses for condensed matter physics
  • Specific catalogue of special courses for Applied and Engineering Physics
  • Complementary catalogue of special courses for nuclear, particle, and astrophysics
  • Complementary catalogue of special courses for Biophysics
  • Specialization Modules in Elite-Master Program Theoretical and Mathematical Physics (TMP)

If not stated otherwise for export to a non-physics program the student workload is given in the following table.

Total workloadContact hoursCredits (ECTS)
150 h 60 h 5 CP

Responsible coordinator of the module PH2026 in the version of SS 2017 was Gerhard Rempe.

Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions

Content

  • Short and ultra-short light pulses: including Q-switching and mode coupling (active and passive)
  • Photon statistics and nonclassical light: e.g. shot noise and photon correlations, micromaser
  • Gaussian beams and laser resonators: including optical modes and Bessel beams
  • Nonlinear optics: including frequency doubling and phase matching
  • Three-wave mixing: including optical parametric fluorescence and oscillation
  • Four-wave mixing: e.g. frequency tripling and phase conjugation

    Learning Outcome

    After successful participation in this module, the student will be able to

    • know and apply different concepts for generating light pulses
    • identify fundamental noise properties of light and indicate appropriate control mechanisms.
    • discuss the origin and properties of light rays
    • describe various effects of nonlinear optics and the experimental methods for their visualization and implementation

    Preconditions

    No preconditions in addition to the requirements for the Master’s program in Physics.

    Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature

    Courses and Schedule

    TypeSWSTitleLecturer(s)DatesLinks
    VO 2 Quantum Optics 2 Rempe, G. Wed, 10:00–12:00, PH II 127
    eLearning
    UE 2 Exercise to Quantum Optics 2
    Responsible/Coordination: Rempe, G.
    dates in groups eLearning

    Learning and Teaching Methods

    The lecture concentrates on the presentation and discussion of universal effects of quantum optics, which are applied in all laser-based research fields. Using selected examples, the calculation of the underlying models are quantitatively shown and intuitively explained. The experimental implementation in the laboratory is discussed qualitatively. Great importance is attached to stimulating interactive discussion with the students and among the students about what has just been learned. In the classroom session (exercise), the students are instructed to independently deepen the topics explained in the lecture through their own recherche. Using problem examples, the learning contents are practised so that the students can explain and apply what they have learnt independently. Students are involved in scientific discussions and their own analytical-physical thinking skills are promoted.

    Media

    Blackboard for the quantitative analysis of the effects, overhead projection for the discussion of experimentally obtained results and implemented experimental set-ups.

    Literature

    • L. Allen, J.H. Eberly: Optical Resonance and Two-Level Atoms
    • R.W. Boyd: Nonlinear Optics
    • W. Demtröder: Laser Spectroscopy
    • L. Mandel, E. Wolf: Optical Coherence and Quantum Optics
    • P.W. Milonni, J.H. Eberly: Lasers
    • B. Saleh, M. Teich: Fundamentals of Photonics
    • A.E. Siegmann: Lasers
    • M. Weissbluth: Photon-Atom Interactions

    Module Exam

    Description of exams and course work

    There will be an oral exam of 25 minutes duration. Therein the achievement of the competencies given in section learning outcome is tested exemplarily at least to the given cognition level using comprehension questions, discussions based on sketches and simple estimations.

    For example an assignment in the exam might be:

    • How can we distinguish between classical light sources and quantum light emitting sources?
    • How can intensive laser light open up new spectral ranges?

    Exam Repetition

    The exam may be repeated at the end of the semester. There is a possibility to take the exam in the following semester.

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