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402-0275-00L 10 Credits BSC , SHE , MSC D-CHAB , D-PHYS , D-ITET

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Quantum Electronics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Steven Johnson

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:27

Abstract

Classical and semi-classical introduction to Quantum Electronics. Mandatory for further elective courses in Quantum Electronics. The field of Quantum Electronics describes propagation of light and its interaction with matter. The emphasis is set on linear pulse and beam propagation in dispersive media, optical anisotropic materials, and waveguides and lasers.

Objective

Teach the fundamental building blocks of Quantum Electronics. After taking this course students will be able to describe light propagation in dispersive and nonlinear media, as well as the operation of polarization optics and lasers.

Content

Propagation of light in dispersive media Light propagation through interfaces Interference and coherence Interferometry Fourier Optics Beam propagation Optical resonators Laser fundamentals Polarization optics Waveguides Nonlinear optics

Resources

Lecture Notes

Scripts will be distributed in class (online) via moodle

Literature

Reference: Saleh, B.E.A., Teich, M.C.; Fundamentals of Photonics, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., newest edition

Learning Materials (Links)

Moodle course
Moodle-Kurs / Moodle course

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , SHE , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 30 minutes

If requested the exam can also take place in English

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Quantenelektronik (Quantum Electronics)	Tue 09:45-10:30 (HPV G 5) Tue 10:00-11:00 (ER SA TZ) Thu 10:45-12:30 (HPH G 3)	3 h weekly
exercise	Quantenelektronik (Quantum Electronics)	Tue 12:45-14:30 (HIT F 12) Tue 14:45-16:30 (HIT K 51) Tue 15:45-17:30 (HIT H 42) Tue 15:45-17:30 (HIT H 51) Tue 15:45-17:30 (HIT J 53)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Physics Bachelor
- Core Courses
  - Core Courses in Experimental Physics
Interdisciplinary Sciences Bachelor
- Physical-Chemical Direction (Programme Regulations 2018 and 2010)
  - 4. Semester (Physical-Chemical Direction)
    - Electives (The Bachelor's programme in Interdisciplinary Sciences allows students to choose from any subject taught at a Bachelor's level at ETH Zurich. In consultation with the Director of Studies of Interdisciplinary Sciences, every student must establish his/her own individual study programme at the beginning of the 2nd year. See the Programme Regulations 2018 for further details.)
Physics Teaching Diploma (Detailed information on the programme at: )
- Spec. Courses in Resp. Subj. w/ Educ. Focus & Further Subj. Didactics (Students who entered the teaching diploma in the spring semester 2014 or later have to pass the Internship in Physics Didactics. All other courses in this area can be chosen individually. Students who entered the teaching diploma before the spring semester 2014 have to do either a Mentored Work or the Internship in Physics Didactics. Of course it is also possible to complete and count both units for the teaching diploma. Core courses that counted towards the Bachelor or Master programme in physics or comprised additional admission requirements in subject didactics are not eligible for the teaching diploma.)
Quantum Engineering Master
- Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)