Physics

An introduction to the basic particles of matter, the modern concept of the atom, chemical bonding and the structure of chemical compounds. The physical and chemical properties of some elements and compounds are examined. Reaction equilibrium and kinetics, acid-base theory,...

An introduction to the basic particles of matter, the modern concept of the atom, chemical bonding and the structure of chemical compounds. The physical and chemical properties of some elements and compounds are examined. Reaction equilibrium and kinetics, acid-base theory,...

Concepts of calculus emphasizing applications in the natural and social sciences. Topics include differential calculus of one and two variables and integration. Prerequisites: three and one-half units of high school mathematics including trigonometry, Math 170, or a minimum ALEKS score...

Theory and applications of single variable calculus with an emphasis on writing clear explanations and proofs. Topics include real numbers, limits, derivatives, integrals, antidifferentiation techniques, function approximation, sequences, and series. Prerequisite: A grade of C or higher in Math 211...

Differentiation and integration of functions of two and three variables and an introduction to vector calculus. Topics include optimization, vector fields, line and surface integrals, and Green’s Theorem. Prerequisite: Math 211.

The solution and application of ordinary differential equations; analytic solutions for linear systems; qualitative behavior of nonlinear systems; approximation and computer methods. Prerequisite: Math 211.

An introduction to the department and to physics and engineering as careers. Presentations by faculty and students of research, introduction to the scientific literature and scientific writing, group lab and design projects. Offered every fall.

A calculus and vector treatment of basic physics. This is the first semester, which includes mechanics of motion, vibration and sound. Required of physics majors. Offered every fall. Prerequisite or Concurrent: Math 211.

A calculus and vector treatment of basic physics. This is the second semester, which includes electric and magnetic fields, light and optics. Required of physics majors. Offered every spring. Prerequisites: Math 211, Phys 203.

Newtonian mechanics based on the formulation of Lagrange and Hamilton. Conservation of mechanical energy and energy methods to find trajectories. Applications to oscillations, orbital motion, scattering, rigid body motion. Special topics include chaos theory and relativity. Offered in fall of...

Study of electric and magnetic fields using the formulation of Maxwell. Maxwell’s equations are developed with reference to experiments followed by selected applications including wave propagation in dispersive media, and magnetic and dielectric phenomena. Offered in spring of even years....

A study of classical thermodynamics including thermodynamic and chemical potentials, kinetic theory of gases, and chemical kinetics. An introduction to statistical mechanics is presented. Applications include studies of material properties and engineering systems. Includes a laboratory. Engineering Physics majors may...

A study of the quantum theory in the vector formalism of Dirac. Solutions of the Schrödinger equation and matrix mechanics are used to analyze potential wells, harmonic oscillators, free particles, spin systems and angular momentum and the Bell inequality. Applications...

An exploration of the relations between science and religion using the “self” as an organizing lens to focus on what it means to be human. Discussion, preparation, presentation of papers and written reflections in a student-led seminar. Offered every spring....