Physics

Session I  (Please Check Specific Dates)

PHYS 104 - Fundamentals of Mechanics with Laboratory

Kaca Bradonjic, Physics Lecturer

Lauri Wardell, Lab Instructor

Please note this is a 6-week course beginning June 3 and ending July 12

This course is a systematic introduction to Newtonian mechanics, which governs the motion of objects ranging from biological cells to galaxies. Primary concepts such as mass, force, energy, and momentum are introduced and discussed in depth. We will place emphasis on the conceptual framework and on using fundamental principles to analyze the everyday world. Topics include: Newton's Laws, conservation of energy, conservation of momentum, rotations, waves, and fluids. Concepts from calculus will be developed and used as needed. Laboratories introduce experimental approaches to these topics. Students with a strong background in mathematics or previous experience in physics should consider PHYS 107. May not be taken in addition to PHYS 107.

Prerequisite: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement.

Lectures: M,T,W,TH 8:30 - 10:30am in Science Center E211

Lab: M, W 3:00-6:00pm in Science Center E311

Credit: 1.25 (5 sem. hrs.)

Course Fee: $ 2,875

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)

PHYS 106 - Fundamentals of Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics with Lab

Kaca Bradonjic, Physics Lecturer

Lauri Wardell, Lab Instructor

Please note this is a 6-week course beginning June 3 and ending July 12

This second semester of classical physics concentrates on the fundamental forces of electricity and magnetism. The electric and magnetic forces are entirely responsible for the structures and interactions of atoms and molecules, the properties of all solids, and the structure and function of biological material. Our technological society is largely dependent on the myriad applications of the physics of electricity and magnetism, e.g., motors and generators, communications systems, and the architecture of computers. After developing quantitative descriptions of electricity and magnetism, we explore the relations between them, leading us to an understanding of light as an electromagnetic phenomenon. The course will consider both ray-optics and wave-optics descriptions of light. Laboratory exercises will emphasize electrical circuits, electronic measuring instruments, optics, and optical experiments.

Prerequisite: PHYS 104 and calculus at the level of MATH 115.

Lectures: M-TH  11:00-1:00pm in Science Center E211

Lab: T & TH 3:00-6:00pm in Science Center E315

Credit: 1.25 (5 sem. hrs.)

Course Fee: $ 2,875

Registration Fee: $50 (non-refundable)