The objectives of this course are (1) to study the evolution of modern physical science, (2) to investigate the various aspects and elements of modern scientific methodology, (3) to compare and contrast the macroscopic world with the realm of atomic and subatomic phenomena, and (4) to discuss the role and relation of science and the scientist in and to society. the topics covered include the more important laws, concepts, and theories of physics beginning with the world of Galileo and Newton and ending with the work of Bohr, Planck and Einstein. This course is designed for non-science majors and may not be used as a prerequisite to advanced courses in this department.
This is a one year introductory course with special emphasis on those aspects of physics which are important in biological processes or measurements. Major topics in the first term include elementary mechanics, biomechanics, fluids, osmosis, hemodynamics, thermodynamics, and geometrical optics. Second term topics include electro-magnetism, waves, radiation, bio-electricity, membrane transport, microscopy, spectroscopy, and electronic instrumentation.
A one year beginning course in physics for students concentrating in physics and other sciences. The first term treats mechanics, heat, and wave phenomena. The second term treats electricity, magnetism, optics, and selected topics in modern physics.
A laboratory oriented course in computer hardware for science, mathematics, and computer science students. Topics covered include logic gates, Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential logic circuits, register transfer logic, microprocessors, addressing modes, programming concepts, microcomputer system configuration, and interfacing.
A laboratory oriented course in electronics stressing applications of linear integrated circuits to laboratory measurements in physics, chemistry, and biology. Laboratory experiments and lecture discussions include circuit analysis, system design using operational amplifiers, analog computer systems, transistors, oscillators, power supplies, Butterworth response filters and phase locked loops.
An examination of the concepts leading to the breakdown of classical physics and to the emergence of quantum theory. Selected topics include atomic physics, relativity and space-time physics, solid state physics, nuclear physics and elementary particles. Independent laboratory experiments are selected on the basis of the student's interests and needs.
This is a one year course in classical mechanics. The first term treats the motion of a single particle with emphasis on conservative forces and their properties, central force fields, and oscillatory motion. The second term treats motion of a system of particles, rigid body mechanics, accelerated reference frames, and mechanics via Lagrange and Hamilton. Frequent reference is also made to the computerized solutions of mechanics problems.
A study of wave phenomena and behavior with applications to electromagnetic waves in several regions of the spectrum. Coverage includes wave representations, plane and spherical waves, phase and group velocities, interference, diffraction, polarization, the Fresnel equations, and double refraction. Photos and descriptions of experiments may be found here.
A unified treatment of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Topics covered include the laws of thermodynamics, state functions and variables, applications to physical and chemical systems, kinetic theory, distribution functions, Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein statistics, black body radiation and Debye theory of specific heats.
Topics covered in this course include Fourier transforms, wave packets, Schrödinger's equation, square well and barrier potentials, harmonic oscillator, hydrogen atom, atomic spectra, multielectron atoms, algebraic methods, matrix mechanics, and perturbation theory. Independent laboratory experiments are selected on the basis of the student's interests and needs.
Topics covered include properties of nuclei, the deuteron, partial wave analysis, alpha, beta, and gamma decay, nuclear models, fission, fusion, nuclear reactions, properties of elementary particles, classification schemes, and interactions.
This course treats the mathematical techniques for solving some of the differential equations which arise in theoretical physics. Topics covered are series solutions, Fourier Series, special functions, Laplace Transforms, orthogonal functions, and/or selected topics which are determined by the needs of the students and the interest of the instructor.
A fundamental study of matter in the solid state including such topics as periodic arrays of atoms, fundamental types of lattices, position and orientation of planes in crystals, simple crystal structures, reciprocal lattices, Brillouin zones, crystals of inert gases, ionic crystals, covalent crystals, hydrogen bonding, phonons and lattice vibrations, lattice heat capacities, diffusion, the free electron gas, energy bands, and point defects.
A one year course with emphasis on field concepts, electromagnetic theory, and electromagnetic waves. The first term treats electrostatics, steady fields and currents and electromagnetism. The second term treats time-varying fields and currents, Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves.
Study of selected topics in theoretical and/or experimental physics. Some topics covered include partial differential equations, boundary value problems, Fourier transforms, complex variables, complex line integrals, conformal mapping and/or topics selected by the needs of the students and the interest of the instructor.
Earth Processes and their effects on the materials, structure, and morphology of the Earth's crust; laboratory includes field work, computer simulations, and study of minerals, rocks, photographs, and maps.
The study of the physical processes and properties of the atmosphere, elements of weather analysis and forecasting, and effects of the atmosphere on people and their activities; laboratory includes weather instruments and observations, weather map construction and analysis, experiments, and scale models, and computer simulations.
Methods and results of astronomical exploration of the solar system, our stellar system, galaxies, and the universe; laboratory includes telescope observations, optics, analysis of astronomical photographs, and computer simulations.
EDUC228 Science in the Elementary Schools
Independent study provides students with an opportunity to undertake a program of supervised reading and research not normally provided within existing courses. To be eligible for Independent study, a student must have junior or senior standing with a cumulative quality point average of at least 2.70.
Field study is an opportunity for off-campus work, study, or both. Field study may be undertaken on full-time or part-time basis and may assume the form of volunteer work or internships in public or private agencies, institutes or businesses. To be eligible for Field study, a student must have junior or senior standing with a cumulative quality point average of at least 2.70.
The purpose of the Honors program is to offer qualified seniors the opportunity to work on a year long independent, intensive research project on a specific topic of their choice. The student works under the guidance of a faculty member who serves as the Honors project advisor. Upon successful completion of the Honors program the student receives credit for the equivalent of two courses, and his or her degree carries a citation of Honors in the field of research.