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Physics
1014 Conceptual Physics
A qualita tive introduction to the basic principles and ideas of mechanics, heat,
thermodynamics, waves, electricity, magnetism, and optics. Demonstrations, exercises, and
experiments will be used to construct the fundamental concepts. Emphasis will be placed on
verbal interpretation,arithmetical reasoning, functional reasoning, and graphical interpretation.
There will be some quantitative and algebraic interpretation. The course is designed for all
students. May be used to satisfy a distribution requirement in natural sciences.
2115 University Physics I
A calculus-based introduction to mechanics and thermodynamics. Fundamental principles,
such as energy and momentum conservation,are stressed.The development of problem-solving
skills is also emphasized. This is a required course for physics, chemistry, biology, and preengineering majors. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite or corequisite: Mathematics 2124.
May be used to satisfy a distribution requirement in natural sciences.
2125 University Physics II
A continuation of Physics 2115. The fundamental concepts of electricity, magnetism, and
optics will be developed in a calculus environment. Continued stress on problem-solving skills.
Required for physics, chemistry, biology, and pre-engineering majors. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisite: Physics 2115. IV W
2154 Modern Physics
An introductory survey of the “new”physics, which has drastically changed our ideas of matter
and energy and yielded applications in chemistry, electrical engineering, nuclear engineering,
etc. Studies the key historical experiments that forced the “new’’ quantum physics into
existence. An elementary presentation of quantum physics is followed by applications to atoms
and molecules. Also included are applications to solid-state physics with emphasis on the
electrical properties of semiconductors, a survey of nuclear and particle physics, and an
introduction to special relativity. Prerequisite: Physics 2125. IV W
2404 Optics
A study of geometrical, physical, and modern optics. Emphasis on the electromagnetic wave
nature of light and the particle nature of light,photons. Topics include reflection and refraction,
lenses, optical instruments, interference, diffraction, polarization, spectroscopy, lasers, and
laser light. Prerequisite: Physics 2154. IV
2444 Special Topics in Physics
Exploration of a theme or physical theory that may be of special interest, but is not fully treated
in other courses in the program. Usually offered in May term, with topics announced in
advance. Prerequisites: Physics 2125, or consent of the instructor.
3014 Classical Mechanics
A study of the statics and dynamics of mechanical systems of interest to engineering and
physics majors. Includes study of kinematics and dynamics presented in various reference
frames, coordinate transformations between frames, rotation of rigid bodies, moments of
inertia, spinning tops, conservation laws, central forces, and introductory Lagrangian
mechanics. Prerequisite: Physics 2125. IV
3024 Thermodynamics
An introduction to the laws of thermodynamics. Concepts of temperature, heat, and entropy.
Equations of state of real systems,heat engines,kinetic theory of gases,and classical statistical
mechanics. Prerequisites: Physics 2154, Mathematics 2144. IV
3054 Electricity and Magnetism I
Intermediate mathematical treatment of electric and magnetic fields and potentials. Electric and
magnetic properties of matter, circuits, introduction to Maxwell’s equations, radiation, and
physical optics. Prerequisites: Physics 2154, Mathematics 2144. IV
3064 Electricity and Magnetism II
A continuation of Physics 3054. Prerequisite: Physics 3054. IV
3101 Research in Physics
A laboratory course designed to acquaint the student with the techniques and equipment used
for experimental research in atomic and molecular collisions. Topics include building
scientific apparatus, high vacuum systems,single particle counting techniques, electron optics,
electronics, and methods of data analysis. 1⁄4 course unit. CR/NC grading. May be repeated
once. Prerequisite: Physics 2125.
4064 Quantum Mechanics with Advanced Laboratory I
Senior capstone course. The lecture introduces the postulates of quantum mechanics and
develops the Schroedinger equation along with angular momentum theory and perturbation
techniques. Cases of special interest are studied including the hydrogen atom, the harmonic
oscillator, and the Born approximation for two body collisions. The laboratory involves
independent student research in experimental atomic collisions. Prerequisite: Physics 3101.
Prerequisite or corequisite: Physics 3054.
4074 Quantum Mechanics with Advance Laboratory II
A continuation of Physics 4064. Prerequisite: Physics 4064
4214 Independent Study in Physics
Study of a topic chosen by the student in consultation with a professor. The topic should be
appropriate for an undergraduate major in content and level of difficulty, but should also be one
that is not covered in other courses. Major pattern elective in physics. Standard or CR/NC
grading. Prerequisites: Determined by topic.