Physics 100N. Concepts in Physics
(4 credits)
Strecker, Charles
Pre-requisite: Minimum Math Placement 22.
This course is designed for those interested in understanding the nature of matter, energy, and how things work in the modern world. We will explore the frontiers of physics research ranging from the basic building blocks of matter and the world of quantum mechanics to the cosmic mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. This course will use video programs featuring leading edge research, guided discussions, interactive simulations, and reaction papers.
Physics 200B. Mechanics & Waves
(5 credits)
Williams, Jeremiah
Pre-requisite: Placement into Math 201 is required. Math 201 is strongly suggested as a co-requisite.
The study of classical mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics (the description of motion), dynamics (forces and Newton's laws), work and energy, impulse and momentum, statics, rotational motion, and waves. There will be 3 class meetings and one 3-hour lab each week. This is the first course in various introductory physics sequences designed for science majors and pre-health students: PHYS 200B & PHYS 205 for pre-health, biology, and geology; PHYS 200B & PHYS 218 for chemistry and math/computer science; PHYS 200B, PHYS 213, PHYS 214, PHYS 215, PHYS 218, & PHYS 220 for physics and pre-engineering majors.
Physics 205. Topics in Classical and Modern Physics
(5 credits)
George, Elizabeth
Pre-requisite: Physics 200B or equivalent.
This course is a sequel to Physics 200B, designed specifically to give an overview of selected topics in physics for students such as biology and geology majors and pre-health professionals. Topics to be covered include: heat and thermodynamics, geometrical and physical optics, electricity and magnetism, electrical circuits, and radiation. We will include applications of physics to biology and medicine and to other areas of student interest. A three-hour lab will meet every week.
Physics 218. Introductory Electromagnetism
(5 credits)
Buncher, John
Pre-requisite: Physics 200B; Mathematics 202 is required as a co-requisite.
The course provides an introduction to the physics of electric and magnetic fields and Direct Current and Alternating Current circuits. We will emphasize applications to the real world and developing familiarity with the appropriate mathematical tools. The laboratory will emphasize DC and AC electric circuits and becoming familiar with such nearly universal instruments as oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, and signal generators. One three-hour lab per week.
Physics 311. Mechanics
(4 credits)
Buncher, John
Pre-requisites: Physics 220. Mathematics 212 & 215 are recommended.
Mechanics 311 is intended for students who have studied some mechanics in an introductory physics course. It extends and expands the techniques from the introductory level to allow us to deal with more complicated and realistic problems and also to look at more fundamental issues in physics such as conservation laws. We will explore many topics from among these: conservation laws, oscillations, Lagrangian mechanics, two-body problems, non-inertial frames, rigid bodies, normal modes, chaos theory, Hamiltonian mechanics, and continuum mechanics. Analytic and numerical (computer) techniques will be included in this exploration.
Physics 313. Electronics
(2 credits, 1st half)
Voytas, Paul
Pre-requisite: Physics 218.
The invention of the solid state transistor a little over 50 years ago changed the way we live and work, making possible the variety of cheap and powerful electronic devices that we use every day. This course will provide you with an understanding of basic electronic circuits and devices. The emphasis will be on a hands-on, practical understanding of circuit elements such as diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers. A majority of class time will be spent in the lab, where you will learn to design, construct, test, and use useful circuits such as voltage dividers, filters, amplifiers, and oscillators.
Physics 321. Signal Processing
(2 credits, 2nd half)
Voytas, Paul
Pre-requisite: Physics 218 & Mathematics 202.
This course on signal processing will emphasize the role of both analytical and digital Fourier series and transforms in understanding the operation of physical systems, i.e., it will be a brief introduction to “linear systems analysis.” Topics to be covered include: The Fourier transform, convolution, correlation, and applications to familiar problems including digital communications, radar, and image processing.
Physics 360. Junior Seminar
(1 credit)
Voytas, Paul
This course, intended for upper-level physics majors, has the following goals: to develop the skills required to make clear presentations on technical topics; to learn to use reference materials pertinent to physics; and to get a feel for what is currently interesting and important in physics and related fields, including societal, ethical, and career issues. CLAC option available. Please consult the Language Department Course Descriptions for more specific information.
Physics 460. Senior Seminar
(1 credit)
Voytas, Paul
This course, intended for upper-level physics majors, has the following goals: to develop the skills required to make clear presentations on technical topics; to learn to use reference materials pertinent to physics; and to get a feel for what is currently interesting and important in physics and related fields, including societal, ethical, and career issues. CLAC option available. Please consult the Language Department Course Descriptions for more specific information.
Physics 490. Independent Study
(variable credit)
Staff
Physics 491. Internship
(variable credit)
Staff
Course reserved for supervised research during summers or while off campus.
Physics 499. Senior Honors Thesis
(variable credit)
Staff
Writing intensive. Offered on demand
