Concept Organizer

Unit C Concept Organizer

Module Descriptions

Module 5: Wave Theory of Light

In Module 5 the production and behaviour of electromagnetic radiation will be explored in optical systems. The wave model of light will be used to describe the following characteristics of electromagnetic radiation:

• its production
  
• its speed and propagation
  
• reflection
  
• refraction
  
• diffraction and interference

As you are working in Module 5, keep the following questions in mind:

• What role does electricity and magnetism play in the production of EMR?
  
• Does EMR exhibit wave- or particle-like characteristics, or both?

Module 6: Wave-Particle Duality and Quantum Physics

In Module 6 the idea of the quantum will be introduced in the context of the wave-particle nature of electromagnetic radiation and its application to the photoelectric effect.

As you are working in Module 6, keep the following questions in mind:

• What is the photoelectric effect?
  
• How is the quantum model applied to understanding the nature of EMR?