Physics (PHY)
An introduction to some of the basic concepts of physics, intended both for non-science majors seeking scientific literacy and also for students who desire some experience in physics before taking PHY 201 or 11. This course satisfies the Core II physical science requirement.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
Introduction to mechanics, wave motion, sound, and heat, for science majors whose curricula may not include calculus.
A continuation of PHY 201. Introduction to electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics.
Introduction to mechanics, wave motion, sound, and heat. Calculus-based and more intensive than PHY 201.
A calculus-based continuation of PHY 211. Introduction to electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics.
An introduction to relativity and quantum effects including atomic structure and spectra, nuclear structure and reactions, and high-energy physics.
An introductory survey of the solar system, stars, nebulae, and galaxies, with discussion of cosmology, life in the universe, and the space program. Includes weekly observatory sessions. This course satisfies the Core II physical science requirement.
A study of the structure, origin, and evolution of the universe. Includes relevant basic astronomy and discussion of fundamental observations.
This course reinforces concepts learned in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses helping students to develop critical thinking, writing, research, presentation and analysis skills. The problems presented are analyzed by the class and solutions proposed. Both individual and team development of the solutions proceed.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
A modern treatment of classical mechanics including single-particle dynamics, oscillations, gravitation, the calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, and central-force motion.
A continuation of PHY 311 including study of systems of particles, noninertial reference frames, rigid-body dynamics, coupled oscillations, continuous systems, the wave equation, and the special theory of relativity.
Primarily a laboratory course, comprised of lectures and advanced experiments in electronics, optics, modern physics, and astronomy. Satisfies writing across the curriculum requirements.
A lecture course in modern optics covering geometrical, wave, and quantum optics, and modern optical technology, with applications to atomic spectroscopy and lasers.
A study of equations of state, the laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic potentials, statistical thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and elementary statistical mechanics.
An introduction to advanced techniques of applied mathematics used in physics and chemistry, including applied linear algebra, ordinary differential equations, and Laplace¿s equation.
A continuation of PHY 361, including vector calculus, Fourier series and orthogonal expansions, Fourier integrals, complex variables and conformal mappings, complex integration, and the heat and wave equations.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
A study of static electric and magnetic fields including Gauss¿ Law, Ampere¿s Law, and the solution of Laplace¿s equation.
A continuation of PHY 411 including study of time-dependent fields, Maxell¿s equations, electromagnetic wave and radiation.
An introduction to quantum mechanics wave functions, and the Schrodinger equation, including solution of the Schrodinger equation for a box, barrier, square well, harmonic oscillator, and the hydrogen atom.
A lecture course comprising a study of the properties of atoms and nuclei, and review of classic experiments, and an investigation of related applications of quantum mechanics.
An introduction to solid state physics including crystal structures, electron and mechanical waves in crystals, semiconductors, electric and magnetic properties of solids, and point defects in crystals.
Advanced specialized topic courses selected on the basis of faculty and student interest. This course may be repeated for credit.
Supervised original research by the individual student on a problem selected in consultation with the faculty. This course may be repeated for credit.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.
Presentation and discussion of current physics topics and research by students, faculty and visiting speakers. All physics majors are expected to participate.