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Core courses are identified as lab science or allied science by color. PHSC 0101: Introduction to Physics (4) A largely non-mathematical introduction to the methodology and content of physics, and to the multifaceted interactions between science, technology and society. Topics from both classical and modern physics will be introduced, including Newton's laws of motion, thermodynamics, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. Links between physics, biology, geology, astronomy and technology will be explored. Laboratory work is an integral part of the course and emphasizes a "discovery" approach. (next offered in Fall 2010) PHSC 0115: General Physics I (4) Newtonian mechanics is the dominant theme of General Physics I. Motion is explored and described graphically using inquiry-based, real-time data collection with computer-based probes. This kinematic description of motion is then connected to a dynamic description through Newton's laws and the forces causing the motion. Conservation laws, energy, momentum, collisions, and rotational motion are also considered. Material is explored using a student-centered, inquiry approach melding laboratory and more traditional approaches. Three longer activities emphasizing experimental design and data collection are undertaken across the semester in addition to the daily explorations. Mathematical prerequisites are high school algebra and trigonometry. The concepts of slope and area under the curve are used throughout the course, but formal calculus is not required. Three two-hour meetings per week. (usually offered in fall semester) PHSC 0117: General Physics II (4) A continuation of General Physics I (algebra-based physics). The major topic for the second semester is classical electromagnetism. Topics to be covered include Coulomb's Law, electric potentials, electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, simple AC and DC circuits and an introduction to optics. Additional topics may include thermodynamics, an introduction to special relativity, and/or an introduction to quantum mechanics. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, and two hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite: PHSC 0115. (usually offered in spring semester) PHSC 0125: Physics I (4) A calculus-based introduction to physics. Classical mechanics forms the core of the course. Topics to be covered include kinematics and dynamics of motion in one, two, and three dimensions, work, energy, conservation laws, rotational motion, static equilibrium, gravitation, and thermodynamics. The use of elementary calculus to solve problems involving trajectories, work, and one-dimensional potentials will be stressed. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, and two hours of laboratory work per week. Prerequisite: MATH 0105 or concurrent registration. (usually offered in fall semester) PHSC 0127: Physics II (4) A continuation of Physics I (calculus-based physics). The major topic for the second semester is classical electromagnetism. Topics to be covered include Coulomb's Law, Gauss' Law, electric potentials, electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, simple AC and DC circuits, and Maxwell's equations. Additional topics may include introductions to optics, special relativity, and/or quantum mechanics. Mathematically, this course introduces students to applications of the integral calculus in solving simple two and three-dimensional potential problems. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, and two hours of laboratory work per week. Prerequisites: PHSC 0125 and MATH 0106 or concurrent registration. (usually offered in spring semester) PHSC 0220: Survey of Modern Physics (3) A survey of the main developments in physics since 1900. Topics to be covered include relativity, old quantum theory, elementary quantum mechanics, wave-particle duality, and atomic physics; additional topics may include solid-state physics, nuclear physics, and particle physics. Prerequisites: MATH 0106 and either PHSC 0117 or PHSC 0127. (expect to offer in alternate fall semesters, beginning F10) PHSC 0398: Internship (2-15) Offers students the opportunity to explore employment opportunities in physics by completing a paid or unpaid internship in a business, non-profit organization, or governmental setting. Each credit of internship should correspond to approximately 40 hours of work. Students will be required to keep a log of their activities during the internship and to complete a reflective paper on their experience at its conclusion. Prerequisite: Open to General Science majors with junior or senior standing, or by permission of the instructor. (offered on demand) PHSC 0399: Independent Study (1-3) Independent study, under the supervision of a faculty member, in an area of physics beyond that covered by departmental courses. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. (offered on demand) |
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