Light-Matter Interactions credit:

4 Hours

Light-matter interaction is explored using a primarily classical approach. This course examines optical properties, including refraction, dispersion, and absorption, in gases, liquids, and solids, emphasizing metals and dielectrics. Topics include dispersion relations, optical activity, Faraday rotation, and the influence of quantum mechanics on optical properties. Nonlinear contributions to polarization, which result in new frequencies and irradiance-dependent properties, are discussed. The course also addresses light's interactions with artificial photonic materials, specifically metamaterials and metasurfaces. Prerequisite: ECE 350 , one of ECE 460 or PHYS 402 , or consent of the instructor.