Laser Physics and Modern Optical Physics

Harvard FAS

Introduction to laser physics and modern optical physics aimed at advanced undergraduates. Review of electromagnetic theory and relevant aspects of quantum mechanics. Wave nature of light. Physics of basic optical elements. Propagation of focused beams, optical resonators, dielectric waveguides. Interaction of light with matter, introduction to quantum optics. Lasers. Physics of specific laser systems. Introduction to nonlinear optics. Modern applications.