Twenty optics experiments with a laser pointer

Abstract

Topics in optics prove pivotal in showing the relevance of physics to daily life. This workshop applies the active learning approach to selected topics in an introductory optics course to maximize the learning of fundamental concepts in geometric and wave optics using the laser pointer as the primary light source. Workshop topics include:

• Reflection, refraction, and total internal reflection;
• Interference and diffraction;
• Scattering and polarization.