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2018-19 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics

Science 166
541-552-6475

Professor                                                                                                                                                                                                     
Peter Wu    
     
     

Physics is a support program that works closely with our chemistry and biology programs. General Physics provides students with the principles necessary for further study in the physical and biological sciences.

 

Programs

Courses

Physics

  • PH 100 - Fundamentals of Physics

    3 credits
    Introduces physics, with an emphasis on the relationship of physics to everyday experience. Uses physics principles to examine common questions about the universe. Concurrent enrollment in PH 104  recommended. Three 1-hour lectures. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 104 - Fundamentals of Physics Laboratory

    1 credit
    Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 100 . One 2-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 110 - Observational Astronomy

    4 credits
    Introduction to fundamental concepts and methods of observational astronomy. Material emphasizes celestial coordinates, reading star maps, locating celestial objects and applying basic laws of planetary motion. Includes laboratory exercises and self-guided night-sky observations. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 112 - Astronomy: The Solar System

    3 credits
    Introduces astronomy, with an emphasis on the solar system. Topics include the origin and history of the solar system; the sun, planets, and moons; comets, meteoroids, and asteroids; a discussion of life in the universe; and the instruments and techniques used in the study of astronomy. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Lab Science when taken with PH 114 ; Explorations Strand G Non-lab Science when taken without PH 114 ).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 113 - Astronomy: The Stars

    3 credits
    Introductory stellar astronomy. Explores historical and contemporary ideas about the origin and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe; cosmology; and the techniques and instruments of deep space astronomy. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Lab Science if taken with PH 115 ; Explorations Strand G - Non-lab Science when taken without PH 115 ).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 114 - Astronomy Workshop: The Solar System

    1 credit
    Practical exercises to accompany  . Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Corequisite(s): PH 112 .
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 115 - Astronomy Workshop: The Stars

    1 credit
    Practical exercises to accompany PH 113 . Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Corequisite(s): PH 113 .
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 174 - Digital Systems and Robotics

    3 credits
    Introduces the basics of digital electronics and the fundamentals of robotics. Topics include simple logic, truth tables, logic gates, voltage, currents, power, TTL chips, sensors, servos, and some practical applications. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences Non-Lab).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 175 - The Science and Technology of Nanoparticles

    3 credits
    Introduces nanoparticles and nanoparticle technology. Focuses on the basic concepts, tools, and applications of nanoparticles to fields such as medicine, energy, electronics, and mechanics. Provides a historical perspective and an understanding of the relationship between nanoparticles and materials science. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences Non-Lab). (Cross-listed with ENGR 175 .)
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 176 - The Science and Technology of Materials

    3 credits
    Introduces basic concepts of materials science and the microstructure-property relationships in various classes of materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and semiconductors. Topics include fundamental characterization techniques and application to science and technology. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Explorations Non-Lab).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 199 - Special Studies

    1 to 18 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 201 - General Physics I

    3 credits
    Algebra-based introduction to general physics for science majors. Emphasizes the application of the major concepts of classical and modern physics and the mathematical techniques of problem solving. Topics covered include statics, equations of linear and rotational motion, Newton’s laws, work and energy for linear and rotational motion, and the law of universal gravitation. Concurrent enrollment in PH 224  is recommended and is required for University Studies credit. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Prerequisite(s): Previous or concurrent enrollment in MTH 112 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 202 - General Physics II

    3 credits
    Topics covered include simple harmonic motion, fluids, heat, ideal gas law, kinetic theory of gases, thermodynamics, sound, waves, and electric force and potential. Concurrent enrollment in PH 225  is recommended and is required for University Studies credit. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Prerequisite(s): PH 201 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 203 - General Physics III

    3 credits
    Studies electrical energy and field, circuits, magnetic force and field, electromagnetic induction and waves, light, optics, and interference. Concurrent enrollment in PH 226  recommended.  Approved for University Studies - Strand G. Prerequisite(s): PH 202 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 209 - Practicum

    1 to 15 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 221 - General Physics with Calculus I

    4 credits
    Studies the principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Calculus-based topics include statics, equations of linear and rotational motion, Newton’s laws, work and energy for linear and rotational motion, and the law of universal gravitation. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Prerequisite(s): MTH 252  (MTH 252 may be taken concurrently with PH 221 to satisfy the prerequisite). Corequisite(s): PH 224 , PH 221R .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 221R - General Physics with Calculus I - Recitation

    0 credits
    Corresponding recitation for PH 221 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 222 - General Physics with Calculus II

    4 credits
    Covers the physics principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Topics include mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Prerequisite(s): PH 221 . Corequisite(s): PH 225 , PH 222R .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 222R - General Physics with Calculus II - Recitation

    0 credits
    Corresponding recitation for PH 222 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 223 - General Physics with Calculus III

    4 credits
    Examines the physics principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Topics include mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Prerequisite(s): PH 222 . Corequisite(s): PH 226 , PH 223R .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 223R - General Physics with Calculus III - Recitation

    0 credits
    Corresponding recitation for PH 223 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 224 - General Physics Laboratory I

    2 credits
    Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 201  or PH 221 . One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 225 - General Physics Laboratory II

    2 credits
    Laboratory activities designed to complement .PH 202  or PH 222 . One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 226 - General Physics Laboratory III

    2 credits
    Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 203  or PH 223 . One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences).
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 306 - Sustainability: Materials Technology and Design

    3 credits
    Introduces basic properties of building materials (e.g., strength, heat transport), concepts of design (e.g., day-lighting, passive solar), and technologies (e.g., photovoltaics, LED lighting). Analyzes life cycle, performance characteristics, environmental impact, and sustainability of conventional and new approaches. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower-division University Studies requirements
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 308 - Energy and the Environment

    3 credits
    Offers a systematic study of current energy-related issues, with an emphasis on the environmental impact of energy production and use. Discussions focus on resource limitations, social values, economics, and the politics accompanying energy issues. Offers an introductory-level review of the physics of energy and analysis methods. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strands H and I). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 309 - Energy Alternatives

    3 credits
    Explores the soft energy paths that have emerged from the general awareness of resource limitations. Topics include alternative energy options available to a modern society at both global and local levels and the many facets of solar energy technology, wind, biomass, hydrogen, and energy efficiency. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strands H and I). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements; Junior standing or above.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 310 - Energy Policy

    3 credits
    Explores major energy issues and the processes and players involved in developing and implementing energy policy. Discussion includes technological and social aspects of associated economic, environmental, and equity tradeoffs. Issues such as global change, electricity industry restructuring, and the hydrogen economy are investigated, as well as energy markets and energy systems planning. Case studies are used to focus the discussions on real situations. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strands H and I). Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 312 - Space, Time, and the Cosmos

    3 credits
    Introduces the basic concepts of modern physics for non-science majors. Major topics include the theories of relativity, quantum mechanics, particle physics, and cosmology. Covers black holes, curved space, and models of the universe. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 313 - Acoustics, Sound, and Music

    3 credits
    Surveys the production of sound in nature and by musical instruments. Emphasizes the scientific analysis of sound characteristics and sound production, from ancient instruments to synthesizers and computers. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 314 - Light, Vision, and Optical Phenomena

    3 credits
    Introduces the basic laws of light, optical instruments, natural and optical phenomena, and vision. Covers the production, transmission, and detection of light; photography; and the processing of optical/visual information. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 315 - Cosmology

    3 credits
    Discusses cosmological models through the ages and cultures. Covers forces and fields in the universe, as well as prevailing theories of cosmology, assumptions, supporting observational evidence, predictions for the future of the universe, and their ancient parallels. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 361 - Digital Electronics

    5 credits
    Introduces digital circuits, with emphasis on applications in scientific instrumentation. Topics include logic functions, gates, latches, flip-flops, combinational and sequential logic, and interfacing analog and digital circuits. Three lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): MTH 111 . Corequisite(s): PH 361L .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 361L - Digital Electronics

    0 credits
    Corresponding lab for PH 361 .
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 399 - Special Studies

    1 to 18 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 401 - Research

    1 to 6 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): PH 331 . Junior standing or above.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 403 - Thesis

    1 to 9 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 405 - Reading and Conference

    1 to 6 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.

  • PH 407 - Seminar

    1 to 3 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 408 - Workshop

    1 to 4 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only

  • PH 409 - Practicum

    1 to 15 credits
    Credits to be arranged. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
    Graded Pass/No Pass only