Physics

Classes

PHY 101 : Technical Physics I

This is a noncalculus-based introduction to the principles of physics and their applications. Topics include vectors, Newton's law of motion, work, energy, machines, and rotation. Emphasis is placed on understanding through problem solving. This course is not transferable to most four-year engineering degrees. Pre or co-requisite: MTH 141 or MTH 152. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Apply knowledge of forces, energy, and momentum to solve numerical problems.
  2. Utilize mathematical tools such as dimensional analysis and vectors.
  3. Model real world situations using physics tools and concepts.
  4. Analyze laboratory data, including sources of error.
5. Recognize the power and proper usage of scientific thinking and methods.

PHY 102 : Technical Physics II

This is a continuation of PHY 101. Topics include fluids, thermodynamics, optics, electrostatics and basic circuits. Prerequisite: C or better in PHY 101. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Apply knowledge of electricity, pressure, temperature, and optics to solve numerical problems.
  2. Utilize mathematical tools such as dimensional analysis and vectors.
  3. Model real world situations using physics tools and concepts.
  4. Analyze laboratory data, including sources of error.
  5. Recognize the power and proper usage of scientific thinking and methods.

PHY 120 : Introduction to Modern Physics

Can we go faster than light? What is time? Is Schrodinger's cat alive or dead? This course is designed to introduce students to some of the most fascinating and bizarre ideas in science. It covers the two pillars of modern physics, special relativity and quantum theory, at a level that nearly anyone can understand and appreciate. Three lecture hours per week.

Credits

3
1. Demonstrate basic knowledge of special relativity, inlcuding Lorentz transformation and four-vectos. 2. Demonstrate basic knowledge of quantum mechanics, including using matrices to solve quantum spin problems and understanding the uncertainty principle conceptually. 3. Appreciate the scientific method and how experiments are used to investigate reality. 4. Apply mathematical problem solving techniques in order to understand various world situations.

PHY 211 : General Physics I

This course and Physics 212 are a one-year calculus-based introduction to the principles of physics and their applications. Topics include vectors, kinematics, Newton's law of motion, work/energy, momentum, and rotational motion. Emphasis is placed on understanding through problem solving. This course is transferable to four-year engineering degrees. Prerequisite: MTH 214 with a grade of C or better. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Apply knowledge of forces, energy, momentum, and torque to solve both numerical and symbolic physics problems.
  2. Utilize mathematical tools such as dimensional analysis, vectors, and basic calculus.
  3. Model real world situations using physics tools and concepts.
  4. Analyze laboratory data, including sources of error.
  5. Recognize the power and proper usage of scientific thinking and methods.
6. Solve unfamiliar problem types using familiar techniques, a process which requires critical and abstract thinking.

PHY 212 : General Physics II

This is the second semester continuation of PHY 211. It serves primarily as a calculus-based introduction to electricity and magnetism. In particular this course covers Maxwell's equations and basic electric circuits, both DC and AC. Topics also include fluids, oscillations, and waves. Prerequisite: C or better in PHY 211. Concurrent registration in MTH 253 is recommended. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
1. Apply knowledge of electricity, magnetism, circuits, and optics to solve both numerical and symbolic physics problems. 2. Utilize mathematical tools such as dimensional analysis, vectors, and concepts from multivariable calculus. 3. Model real world situations using physics tools and concepts. 4. Analyze laboratory data, including sources of error. 5. Recognize the power and proper usage of scientific thinking and methods. 6. Solve unfamiliar problem types using familiar techniques, a process which requires critical and abstract thinking.