Topic 9

Wave Phenomena

Topic 9 - Resources

Topic 9.1 - Simple harmonic motion

In our first lesson, we will expand on our knowledge of SHM from Topic 4, adding some equations that will allow you to track a particle's motion and energy over time.

You should complete the handout before the next lesson.

Students looking for extra practice can try these:

Topic 9.1 - SHM

Topic 9.2 - Single Slit Diffraction

Here we will look at the geometry of the diffraction of light through a single slit. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to calculate the angle and distance to minima of the diffraction pattern.

Topic 9.2 - Single slit diffraction

Topic 9.3 - Interference

In which we explore the interference patterns produced by two slits, and the modulating effect of slit width on the resultant pattern.

The second handout for Topic 9.3 deals with diffraction gratings and thin film interference.

Topic 9.3 - Interference

Topic 9.4 - Resolution

On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair...I saw the tail lights of a vehicle in the distance that appeared to be one faint object, until I got closer and they resolved into two tail lights! Behold, resolution.

Topic 9.4 - Resolution

The Rayleigh Criterion: where the peaks of the intensity patterns overlap with the first minimum of the single slit diffraction pattern. Making this animation was fun!

Topic 9.5 - The doppler effect

Today we look at a spectacularly cool phenomenon that you probably experience in some form nearly every day! By the end of this lesson, you will be able to calculate Doppler-shifted frequencies and wavelengths and explain the effect in terms of wavefronts.

The YouTube video below is my lecture on the topic. My derivation for Doppler-shifting is a bit different than the Tsokos text, so it's probably worth a look.

Doppler-shifted echoes.pdf

Topic 9.5 - The Doppler Effect

Topic 9.5 Handout Solutions - Lecture