Light: Wave Model

The Nature of Light >

Inquiry question: What evidence supports the classical wave model of light and what predictions can be made using this model?

Students:
● conduct investigations to analyse qualitatively the diffraction of light (ACSPH048, ACSPH076)
● conduct investigations to analyse quantitatively the interference of light using double slit apparatus and diffraction gratings 𝑑sin𝜃 = 𝑚𝜆 (ACSPH116, ACSPH117, ACSPH140)
● analyse the experimental evidence that supported the models of light that were proposed by Newton and Huygens (ACSPH050, ACSPH118, ACSPH123)
● conduct investigations quantitatively using the relationship of Malus’ Law 𝐼 = 𝐼_max𝑐𝑜𝑠²𝜃 for plane polarisation of light, to evaluate the significance of polarisation in developing a model for light (ACSPH050, ACSPH076, ACSPH120)

Extract from Physics Stage 6 Syllabus © 2017 NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)