The Mechanical Universe - Optics And Beyond

Description: Optics Maxwell's theory says that electromagnetic waves of all wavelengths, from radio waves to gamma-rays and including visible light, are all basically the same phenomenon. Many of the properties of light are really just properties of waves, including reflection, refraction and diffraction. Ordinary light can be used to see things on a human scale, X-rays to "see" things on an atomic scale. Instructional Objectives * Be able to discuss the nature and properties of various parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. * Be able to state the law of reflection and Snell's law of refraction and relate them to the properties of waves. * Be able to explain wave interference and diffraction. * Be able to explain how we can "see" atoms. This series helps teachers demystify physics by showing students what it looks like. Field trips to hot-air balloon events, symphony concerts, bicycle shops, and other locales make complex concepts more accessible. Inventive computer graphics illustrate abstract concepts such as time, force, and capacitance, while historical reenactments of the studies of Newton, Leibniz, Maxwell, and others trace the evolution of theories. The Mechanical Universe helps meet different students' needs, from the basic requirements of liberal arts students to the rigorous demands of science and engineering majors. This series is also valuable for teacher professional development. Produced by the California Institute of Technology and Intelecom.