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Photonics Simulator

How fast will the internet be in the future? How can we make it faster? How can we increase the bandwidth of the internet?

The photonics game gives students information about how photonic components use light to convey signals (information) and shows how these components may be combined to make photonic circuits, such as in a computer, or optical communications networks on a larger scale. It also illustrates why light carries much more information than microwaves (mobile phones) and copper cables (electronics / radio waves).

Run the photonics simulator!

 

The photonics simulator as a teaching resource

• Suitable age group: Stage 5 Science, Stage 6 Physics, Stage 6 Engineering, Stage 6 Senior Science
• Maximum number of students per session: Dependant on computer lab space
• Availability: On campus or at your school
• Length of session: 1 ½ hours or double period recommended

For more information, contact Caroline Taouk.

This is part of the Macquarie Experience program.

NSW Syllabus outcomes:

• 5.3 evaluates the impact of applications of science on society and the environment
• 5.5 analyses how current research might affect people's lives
• 5.12 relates the interactions involved in using some common technologies to their underlying scientific principles
• 5.14 undertakes first-hand investigations independently with safety and competence
• 5.15 gathers first-hand data accurately

Stage 6 Engineering

• H1.2 differentiates between properties of materials and justifies the selection of materials, components and processes in engineering
• H2.2 analyses and synthesises engineering applications in specific fields and reports on the importance of these to society
• H4.1 investigates the extent of technological change in engineering
• H4.3 appreciates social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering and applies them to the analysis of specific problems
• H6.2 demonstrates skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering

Stage 6 Physics - 8.2 The World Communicates

• P1 outlines the historical development of major principles, concepts and ideas in physics
• P3 assesses the impact of particular technological advances on understanding in physics
• P4 describes applications of physics which affect society or the environment
• P5 describes the scientific principles employed in particular areas of research in physics
• P7 describes the effects of energy transfers and energy transformations
• P12 discusses the validity and reliability of data gathered from first-hand investigations and secondary sources
• P14 draws valid conclusions from gathered data and information
• P15 implements strategies to work effectively as an individual or as a member of a team
• P16 demonstrates positive values about, and attitude towards, both the living and nonliving components of the environment, ethical behaviour and a desire for a critical evaluation of the consequences of the applications of science

Stage 6 Senior Science

• H1 discusses advances in scientific understanding and technology that have changed the direction or nature of scientific thinking
• H2 applies the processes that are used to test and validate models, theories and laws, to investigations
• H3 assesses the contribution of scientific advances on the development of technologies
• H4 asses the impacts of applications of science on society and the environment
• H5 describes possible future directions of scientific research
• 9.4 Information Systems 2. Electromagnetic radiation can be modulated to carry different types of information 3. Electromagnetic waves have different properties which are utilised in a range of communication systems through air and space 5. Information can be transmitted in the form of electrical impulses 6. Electrical energy can be converted to light energy for use in optical fibre communication systems