Download Phys104-Waves

Phys104-Waves
Course Outline (Jan-May 2005)
Instructor: Enrique Caliz
Class hours:
Office hours:
Course description (3 credits)
This course aims to familiarize the student with wave phenomena and the mathematical
techniques used in their analysis. Special attention is given to the properties and propagation of
sound and light.
Course Objectives:
The principal objective of this course is to equip the student with a firm foundation in the
corresponding principles of advanced level physics. The successful completion of this course
will signify a major step toward the achievement of an Associate Degree in Physics. Students
who complete this course will also be able to successfully engage those portions of the CAPE
and Cambridge examinations dedicated to Waves.
Grading procedure:
Assignments:
Quizzes:
Tests:
Exam:
15%
20%
35%
30%
Text and Instructional Materials
The required textbook is Advanced Level Physics by Nelkon and Parker. As an aid simulations
downloaded from internet websites will also be use to illuminate some of the concepts discussed.
Students will have access to the lectures from the teachers personal website
Students will also need
1. a scientific calculator,
2. graph paper (basic non-log graph paper and semi-log graph paper),
3. metric ruler, compass and protractor,
4. internet access
Course Requirements:
1. Students taking this course are required to have completed at least two years of high
school physics or the equivalent.
2. Students are expected to attend all classes.
3. Students are expected to be punctual at all times.
4. All assignments must be handed in on time.
5. Students be in possession of the required textbook.
6. Students must be in possession of a scientific calculator.
7. All work must be neatly done. Sloppy work will not be accepted.
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Detailed Outline
1.
Geometric Optics
Laws of Reflection and Refraction, Critical Angle, Lenses, Structure and defects of the eye,
Simple camera, Microscope, Telescope
2.
Waves
Traveling waves, Standing waves, Pulses, Velocity of waves, Energy transmitted by
harmonic waves, Superposition and Interference of waves
3.
4.
Sound
Categories of sound, Velocity of sound waves, Energy and intensity of sound waves,
Variation of intensity with distance, Hearing Limitations, The Decibel, Waves in Pipes,
Waves in Strings
Physical Optics
Interference of Light Waves, Optical Path, Young’s Slits Experiment, Diffraction,
Polarization
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