OVERVIEW

This course provides an introduction to concepts of optics that are useful in understanding several techniques used in chemistry.
Starting from basic notions, we will deal with the main properties of light, and with several classical phenomena. By using these elements, it will be possible to discuss the operation and the performances of optical devices and instruments.
As an example, the instrumentation for Raman microscopy will be analyzed in detail.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The aim of this course is to provide learners with the fundamentals of classical optics necessary to identify and quantify phenomena unerlying techniques relevant to chemistry, such as microscopy and spettrometry.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students will

• learn basic elements of optics
• be able to understand the role of single optical components contained in complex instrumentation
• be able to evaluate the performances of imaging systems and specific spectrometers and to recognize the main limiting factors of these performances

TEACHING METHODS

This course is worth 4 credits. It will include 32 hours of lecture delivered in classroom or lab. The student is expected to devote 68 hours to reading.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• Review of electromagnetism and the wave equation
• Polarization of light
• Properties of light sources: lamps, LEDs, and lasers
• Reflection, refraction, and absorption
• Interference
• Basics of diffraction
• Elements of geometrical optics
• Imaging and lenses
• The diffraction grating
• The Czerny-Turner monochromator
• The Raman Microscope

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Lecture notes.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

From February 24, 2025

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral assessment with questions on the theory and simple calculations 

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The questions test the students' understanding of basic concepts in optics and their ability to apply such concepts for the description of the working principles of the devices introduced during the lectures.

Except for a few specified cases, the students will not be required to memorize formulas, but they will be required to show their ability to use them for the evaluation of optical quantities.

The questions will also test the student's knowledge of the order of magnitude of some properties of light and of some quantities characterizing the typical performance of the optical devices and instruments that have been introduced. 

Exam schedule

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Sergio Di Domizio (sergio.didomizio@unige.it), the Department’s disability liaison.