Manipulation of Light in the Nanoworld

MODULE SUMMARY | RELATED SIMULATIONS | RELATED SEMINARS

MODULE SUMMARY

"Manipulation of Light in the Nanoworld" extends the standard topics of wavelength, diffraction, and interference into the nanoscale by introducing students to the concept of photonic crystals. Hands-on activities present macro and microscale diffraction and interference effects in an engaging way. Computer simulations (see [1] below) that parallel some of these hand-on activities allow students to observe the changes in these effects as objects move from the micro to the nanoscale. These concepts are then approached from a materials perspective - with examples such as a butterfly wing and a film of oil, - introducing students to the idea that the physical properties of materials affect the light incident upon them. Eventually, the students use a computer simulation of a photonic band gap (see [2] below) to predict the behavior of photonic crystals (an artificial opal structure) they actually make and test.

SIMULATIONS [1]:

Diffraction Simulation

The double slit diffraction component of the Diffraction, Interference and Young's Double Slit Experiment simulation, shows the near-field diffraction and interference of light passing through one or two slits in an opaque, non-metallic material.   

» Open simulation      » How to use this simulation^*

The diffraction and interference of light when the above experiment is performed with slits in a metallic material of varying thickness is demonstrated in the Young's Double-slit Experiment in the Nanoworld simulation. In this situation surface plasmons generated in the metal for certain parameter settings can have interesting effects on the diffraction pattern.

» Open simulation

SIMULATIONS [2]:

Photonic Band Gap Simulation

The Photonic Band Gap simulation demonstrates the interaction of visible light with a two dimensional photonic crystal structure.  Wavelength, size of the crystal, and angle of incidence can all be varied to explore the effects on light propagation through the material.

» Open simulation      » How to use this simulation^*

* These pages give step by step instructions on how to operate the simulations.

» Sample Activity Pages (PDF)

Contact us if you would like to participate in field testing this module.

RELATED SEMINARS:

• Introduction to Nanometer Scale Science and Technology
  Prof. Mark Hersam, Northwestern University
• Metal Oxide Nanowires: Synthesis, Characterization and Device Applications
  Prof. Jia Grace Lu, University of California
• It's a Nanoworld After All: Using Nanotech Consumer Products to Engage Student Learning
  Prof. Katherine C. Chen, California Polytechnic State University
  Abstract (PDF) | Presentation (PDF) | References (PDF)
• Wrapping light around a hair
  Eric Mazur, Harvard University
• Nano 101: Introduction to Nanotechnology
  Prof. Mark Ratner, Northwestern University
  Video (rm)