Physics: Light and Matter

<h2>About the course</h2> <p>The course provides a basic introduction to the central concepts of physics, with a focus on light and matter. You will learn how atoms and light interact, how energy is conserved in mechanical systems, and why gases behave the way they do. This is an important building block for those who wish to continue studying physics, astronomy, or medical physics.</p> <p>The course is compulsory in the bachelor's programmes in physics, theoretical physics, astronomy and astrophysics, as well as in the medical physics programme.</p> <h2>Course content</h2> <p>You will receive an introduction to:</p> <ul> <li>The phases of matter and atomic structure</li> <li>Mechanics and the conservation of energy</li> <li>Ideal gases and Boltzmann distribution</li> <li>Geometric optics and the interaction of light with atoms</li> <li>Quantisation of light and energy levels</li> <li>Experimental methodology and laboratory safety</li> <li>Academic integrity and learning processes</li> </ul> <h2>Teaching</h2> <p>Teaching is in English, but you can be examined in Swedish. The course alternates between:</p> <ul> <li>Lectures and problem-solving exercises</li> <li>Laboratory work with safety training</li> <li>Seminars on the applications of physics</li> <li>Workshops on learning and academic integrity</li> </ul> <p>You will work actively on solving problems, analysing experiments and presenting data. Python is used for simpler tasks.</p>