Physics 153 Learning Objectives
Fall 2014
The successful student should:
Demonstrate an understanding the three models of light (ray, wave, and particle)
by applying them to phenomena such as
formation of shadows, images, diffraction patterns and in describing reflection, refraction, total internal reflection and
the index of refraction.
Identify the wavelengths of appropriate regions of the electromagnetic spectrum for visible light as well as infra-red and
ultra-violet radiations; identify the approximate wavelengths of the primary colors of light, including the seven colors
identified by Isaac Newton. Understand the measurements of light and the appropriate units and be able to compute efficiency
and efficacy of a light source.
Describe the generation of color from combinations of sources and/or filters and apply to the formation and recording of color
images in digital cameras and film cameras as well as their reproduction in print and video monitors including jumbotrons and
video projectors. Be able to explain the basic ideas behind the color measurement system known as L*a*b* and define the terms
lightness, brightness, hue, and chroma.
Be able to recall the speed of light and the fundamental relation between
wavelength, frequency, and speed of a light wave and use the relation in computations.
Be able to recall the speed of light and the fundamental relation between wavelength, frequency, and speed of a light wave and
use the relation in computations.
Identify the principle parts of the human eye and describe their functions. Locate the blind spot in one's own eye and tell why it
occurs. Describe photopic and scotopic vision, the response of the human eye to color and distinguish the response of the retina
from that of color photographic film and color electrographic sensors. Identify the cause of lateral inhibition in the retina and
give examples of how it affects perception.
Explain why the sky is blue and the formation of rainbows; distinguish laser light from ordinary light and describe the requirements
for lasing action.
Characterize illusions according to whether they are physical, optical, or physiological. Recognize and describe two physiological
and six psychological cues for depth perception and create three-dimensional images using the technique of anaglyphs.
Understand the effects of interference and and diffraction and the role they plays in the creation of optical filters and holograms
and in limiting the resolution of optical systems.
Describe the characteristics of light generated by incandescence, fluorescence, flame, light emitting diodes and laser diodes.
Describe what it means for light to be polarized. Show how light can be controlled by use of polarizers; how color can be created with
polarization; and how some materials cause the polarization direction to rotate as the light passes through.
Demonstrate skill at describing the surrounding world in careful terms.
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