General information
| Course type | LAS |
| Module title | History of Light |
| Language | English |
| Module lecturer | Tomasz Pędziński |
| Lecturer's email | tomekp@amu.edu.pl |
| Lecturer position | prof. UAM dr hab. |
| Faculty | Faculty of History |
| Semester | 2025/2026 (winter) |
| Duration | 30 |
| ECTS | 3 |
| USOS code | 18-S1LAA01-P02950 |
Timetable
Module aim (aims)
1 transfer of knowledge in the field of basic photophysics, photochemistry and spectroscopy (incl. lab safety procedures)
2 familiarization with principle terms and equipment used in chemistry, physics, biology and medical sciences
3 basic terms related to light and photonic applications (photon, electromagnetic wave, laser etc.)
Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)
Syllabus
1. Basic terms related to LIGHT as an electromagnetic wave, wave-particle theory, spectral ranges: radio-waves, infrared, visible light, UV, gamma radiation etc.
2. Atom/molecule model, physical properties of excited states.
3. History of light-related scientific discoveries, examples of key experiments that helped understanding the nature of LIGHT.
4. Light-induced reactions and processes and their practical applications in pharmacy, medicine and cosmetic industry.
5. Light sources (from fire and Sun to the laser), equipment for spectroscopy - basic principles and practical uses.
Reading list
Obligatory
- Suppan P., Chemistry and Light: RSC, 1994 (and later editions).
- Holt J., When Einstein Walked with Gödel. Excursions to the Edge of Thought, 2019.