2015-16 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Physics
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Science 166
541-552-6475
| Professor |
Senior Instructor |
Adjunct Faculty |
| Panos J. Photinos |
Ellen Siem |
Sidney C. Abrahams |
| George Quainoo |
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| Peter Wu |
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The physics major prepares students for careers in physics, including astronomy; astrophysics; cosmology; electronics; elementary particles and high-energy physics; environmental and atmospheric physics; forensics; health; high school teaching; materials science and nanotechnology; medical and nuclear physics; and theoretical, computational, and mathematical physics. A BS or BA in physics is also excellent preparation for a career in law, medicine, or engineering (see the Applied Physics Option and the Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option sections). Through hands-on training, students acquire valuable technical and research skills. Our graduates have strong placement records at industries in the state of Oregon and at graduate and professional schools nationwide.
For 2014-15, Physics will only accept new majors who have already completed Calculus (MTH 251-252), General Chemistry (CH 201-206), and General Physics (either PH 201-203 or PH 221-223 combined with PH 224-226). All physics majors will need to complete their required physics coursework no later than the end of spring of 2016. Physics will be able to accept new minors who are able to complete all the required coursework no later than the end of spring 2016.
Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program
Physics majors may participate in the Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program, which enables students to complete the physics degree requirements in three years. For more information, please see the Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program section or visit the website at www.sou.edu/admissions/3yb.shtml.
Teacher Licensing
Students who would like to teach physics at the middle school or high school level in Oregon public schools must complete a bachelor’s degree in physics before applying for admission to SOU’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. Interested students should consult the Physics Department chair.
Degree Programs
Five degree options are available for physics majors:
- The Standard Option. Emphasizes the coursework expected of students planning graduate studies in physics or a closely related field. SOU offers a complete upper division physics curriculum.
- The Applied Option. Prepares students for industrial employment or graduate work in applied physics, including nanotechnology, biophysics, medical physics, environmental physics, and geophysics.
- The Materials Science Option. Emphasizes the materials aspects of physical science, including composities, nanoparticles, and polymers. This option is offered in cooperation with the University of Oregon (UO) Materials Science Institute.
- The Engineering Physics Option. Prepares students for graduate school or careers at technical companies. Coursework is designed with flexibility that allows students to focus on their engineering emphasis of choice (e.g., biomedical, chemical, electrical/computer, environmental engineering).
- The Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option. Allows a student to earn a BS in physics from Southern Oregon University and a BS in engineering from Oregon State University. At SOU, students can complete all of the engineering requirements for admission to the chosen department of the OSU professional engineering program and most of the requirements for the SOU upper division electives for the physics-engineering dual degree option. At OSU, students in this program complete SOU’s physics degree requirements, along with OSU’s professional engineering requirements. Students are eligible to receive a degree from SOU upon completion of the University’s requirements and a minimum of 24 credits of upper division engineering at OSU. This program provides many career options for students interested in physics and engineering.
Program Requirements
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science
Minor
Physics
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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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
PH 101 - Physical Sciences and Engineering Orientation I
2 credits
Introduces physical sciences and engineering curricula, career paths, ethics, problem solving, communication, and computer programming. This series is required for all areas of Physics. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 101 .) -
PH 102 - Physical Sciences and Engineering Orientation II
2 credits
Examines communication, problem-solving, and computer literacy skills in physical sciences and engineering. This series is required for all areas of Physics. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 102 .) -
PH 103 - Physical Sciences and Engineering Orientation III
2 credits
Focuses on problem solving and computer programming skills in physical sciences and engineering. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 103 .) -
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). Grading option 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). Grading option 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 - Sciences) if taken with PH 114 . Grading option 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 - Sciences if taken with PH 115 . Grading option 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). Graded Pass/No Pass only. Corequisite(s): PH 112 . -
PH 115 - Astronomy Workshop: The Stars
1 credit
Practical exercises to accompany PH 113 . Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand G - Sciences). Graded Pass/No Pass only. Corequisite(s): PH 113 . -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 174 .) -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 175 .) -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. (Cross-listed with ENGR 176 .) -
PH 190 - Calculus for Physics
2 credits
For students who wish to begin PH 221 before completing MTH 252 or who need to review calculus while taking PH 221 . Uses an intuitive approach to the calculus of derivatives and integrals. States and uses elementary theorems without proofs. Meets four hours a week for the first five weeks of the term. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 251 and previous or concurrent enrollment in MTH 252 Corequisite(s): PH 221 -
PH 199 - Special Studies
1 to 18 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option 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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Previous or concurrent enrollment in MTH 112 . -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 201 . -
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. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 202 . -
PH 209 - Practicum
1 to 15 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
PH 220 - Problem Solving in the Sciences
3 credits
Calculus applications to selected topics in physics. Required for students from the PH 201 sequence who plan on pursuing the physics major or minor. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 112 . -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 251 or MTH 252 with concurrent enrollment in PH 190 . Corequisite(s): PH 224 , PH 221R . -
PH 221R - General Physics with Calculus I - Recitation
0 credits
Corresponding recitation for PH 221 . Grading option 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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 221 . Corequisite(s): PH 225 , PH 222R . -
PH 222R - General Physics with Calculus II - Recitation
0 credits
Corresponding recitation for PH 222 . Grading option 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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 222 . Corequisite(s): PH 226 , PH 223R . -
PH 223R - General Physics with Calculus III - Recitation
0 credits
Corresponding recitation for PH 223 . Grading option 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). Grading option 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). Grading option 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). Grading option 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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower-division University Studies requirements (Cross-listed with ENGR 306 ) -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Upper division standing and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. -
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). Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. -
PH 331 - Methods of Research in Physics I
1 credit
Introduces ongoing experimental and theoretical research in the department. Juniors should register for this course during winter term. P/NP only. Prerequisite(s): PH 344 . -
PH 332 - Methods of Research in Physics II
1 credit
Preparation of capstone proposal with a selected mentor. Juniors should register for this course during spring term. P/NP only. Prerequisite(s): PH 331 . -
PH 333 - Optics and Waves
3 credits
Offers an introduction to optics for science majors. Topics include imaging systems, wave theory, aberrations, diffraction, and interference. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 ; PH 203 or PH 223 (Cross-listed with ENGR 333 ) -
PH 336 - Optics Laboratory
2 credits
Laboratory course in optics designed to complement PH 333 . Provides practical experience with lasers, optical devices, imaging systems, and fiber optics. Includes significant data analysis and report writing component. One 3-hour laboratory. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite or corequisite: PH 333 (Cross-listed with ENGR 336 ) Corequisite(s): PH 333 (Cross-listed with ENGR 336 .) -
PH 339 - Lasers
3 credits
Designed for physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering majors. Covers the fundamental types of lasers, as well as the operational characteristics and applications of lasers in physics, chemistry, communications, engineering, industry, and medicine. Two lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 203 or PH 223 . -
PH 341 - Introduction to Relativity and Quantum Physics
3 credits
Introduces special relativity, quantum theory, the electronic structure of atoms, and selected topics, including band theory of solids, nuclear structure, accelerators and elementary particles, and cosmology. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 ; PH 203 or PH 223 -
PH 344 - Modern Physics Laboratory
2 credits
Includes experiments in modern physics. Emphasizes measurements that give values for the fundamental constants of nature, such as the electronic charge or Planck’s constant, along with computer-based data analysis. Six hours of open laboratory. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 226 and previous or concurrent enrollment in PH 341 -
PH 354 - Thermal Physics
4 credits
Offers a statistical approach to thermodynamics. Employs the fundamental ideas of probability for small systems of particles to derive concepts such as entropy, internal energy, and chemical potential. Covers applications to a wide variety of classical and quantum systems. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 ; PH 203 or PH 223 -
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. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): MTH 111 . Corequisite(s): PH 361L . -
PH 361L - Digital Electronics
0 credits
Corresponding lab for PH 361 . Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
PH 362 - Analog Electronics
5 credits
Introduces the design and troubleshooting of AC and DC analog circuits. Topics include filters, rectifiers, power supplies, and amplifiers. Three lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 . -
PH 371 - Mathematical Methods for the Physical Sciences
4 credits
Previews basic applied mathematical methods for intermediate students in the physical sciences. Covers infinite series, complex functions, partial differentiation, multiple integration, and vector analysis. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 . -
PH 380 - Computer Methods
3 credits
Introduces the use of computers for problem solving in science and engineering. Applies programming techniques to integration, differentiation, and modeling. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): MTH 252 ; PH 201 or PH 221 -
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. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 331 . -
PH 403 - Thesis
1 to 9 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
PH 405 - Reading and Conference
1 to 6 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
PH 407 - Seminar
1 to 3 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
PH 408 - Workshop
1 to 4 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
PH 409 - Practicum
1 to 15 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Restricted to Juniors and above. -
PH 411 - Physics Laboratory and Instruction Practices
1 to 3 credits
Involves preparation for instruction of general physics laboratory courses. Students intern with a faculty mentor to prepare lower division lab classes or lecture demonstration materials. Students obtain direct, hands-on experience with preparation for K-12 or graduate school teaching assignments. Repeatable. Graded Pass/No Pass only. Prerequisite(s): Senior standing. -
PH 416 - Quantum Physics I
4 credits
Introduces the basic principles of quantum mechanics, including wave-particle duality, the Schrodinger equation for elementary potentials, the interpretation of the wave function, uncertainty relations, and operators. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 341 and PH 371 -
PH 424 - Analytical Mechanics I
4 credits
Studies the basic laws of motion in the Newtonian formalism. Topics include dynamics of particles, rigid bodies, conservation laws, and oscillations. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 and PH 371 -
PH 425 - Analytical Mechanics II
4 credits
Covers generalized coordinates, variational principles, and the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 424 . -
PH 431 - Electricity and Magnetism
4 credits
Studies static electricity and magnetism. Topics include Coulomb’s law, electric field, Gauss’ law, the scalar potential, electrostatic energy, and interactions with matter. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 and PH 371 -
PH 432 - Electricity and Magnetism
4 credits
Examines electric and magnetic fields and their interactions with matter. Introduces Ampere’s law, magnetic induction, Faraday’s law, the vector potential, magnetic energy, Maxwell’s equations, and electromagnetic waves. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 431 . -
PH 434 - Advanced Physics Laboratory (Various Topics)
1 to 2 credits
Selected experiments in physics and materials characterization techniques. Students may enroll for a total of 3 credits under this course number. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 226 or ENGR 226 . -
PH 451 - Topics in Atmospheric Physics
3 credits
Involves studies of the sun-driven processes that occur in space near the Earth. Topics include thermodynamic and transport processes, measurement methods, computational modeling, and applications to environmental studies. Repeatable for a maximum of 9 credits. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 . -
PH 461 - Solid State Physics
4 credits
Explores crystal structure and binding; reciprocal lattice; and mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, magnetic, and transport properties of solids. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 371 . -
PH 471 - Advanced Topics in Mathematical Physics
3 credits
Examines tensor analysis, Fourier analysis, analytic function theory, partial differential equations, and integral equations. Strongly recommended for students in physics and engineering who are planning graduate studies. Repeatable for a maximum of 9 credits. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Restricted to Juniors and above. Prerequisite(s): PH 371 . -
PH 475 - Nanophysics and Nanotechnology
3 credits
Introduces nanoparticles and nanoparticle technology to science majors. Provides a brief historical context. Explores nanoscale particle properties (mechanical properties and phase stability), nanoparticle design and fabrication, nanoparticle characterization, and nanoparticle applications. Emphasizes the relationship between the internal structure of a nanoparticle and its properties. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 . (Cross-listed with ENGR 475 .) -
PH 499 - Capstone Project
1 to 2 credits
Involves research inside or outside the department under supervision of a physics faculty member. Project proposals are submitted and reviewed in PH 331 and PH 332 during the spring term of the student’s junior year. Requires prior departmental approval, a written progress report each term, and a seminar or symposium presentation at the completion of the project. Only 2 credits per term may be taken. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credits. Grading option designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Prerequisite(s): PH 331 , PH 332 , and senior standing -
PH 501 - Research
1 to 9 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 331 . -
PH 503 - Thesis
1 to 9 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. -
PH 505 - Reading and Conference
1 to 6 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. -
PH 507 - Seminar
1 to 4 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. -
PH 508 - Workshop
1 to 4 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. -
PH 509 - Practicum
1 to 15 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. -
PH 511 - Physics Laboratory and Instruction Practices
1 to 3 credits
Involves preparation for instruction of general physics laboratory courses. Students intern with a faculty mentor to prepare lower division lab classes or lecture demonstration materials. Students obtain direct, hands-on experience with preparation for K-12 or graduate school teaching assignments. May not be repeated for additional credit. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework -
PH 516 - Quantum Physics I
4 credits
Introduces the basic principles of quantum mechanics, including wave-particle duality, the Schrodinger equation for elementary potentials, the interpretation of the wave function, uncertainty relations, and operators. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework Prerequisite(s): PH 341 and PH 371 -
PH 524 - Analytical Mechanics I
4 credits
Studies the basic laws of motion in the Newtonian formalism. Topics include dynamics of particles, rigid bodies, conservation laws, and oscillations. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework Prerequisite(s): PH 223 and PH 371 -
PH 525 - Analytical Mechanics II
4 credits
Covers generalized coordinates, variational principles, and the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 424 . -
PH 531 - Electricity and Magnetism
4 credits
Studies static electricity and magnetism. Topics include Coulomb’s law, electric field, Gauss’ law, the scalar potential, electrostatic energy, and interactions with matter. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 and PH 371 -
PH 532 - Electricity and Magnetism
4 credits
Examines electric and magnetic fields and their interactions with matter. Introduces Ampere’s law, magnetic induction, Faraday’s law, the vector potential, magnetic energy, Maxwell’s equations, and electromagnetic waves. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 431 . -
PH 534 - Advanced Physics Laboratory (Various Topics)
1 to 2 credits
Selected experiments in physics and materials characterization techniques. Students may enroll for a total of 3 credits under this course number. Repeatable for a maximum of 3 credits. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 226 or ENGR 226 . -
PH 551 - Topics in Atmospheric Physics
3 credits
Involves studies of the sun-driven processes that occur in space near the Earth. Topics include thermodynamic and transport processes, measurement methods, computational modeling, and applications to environmental studies. Repeatable for a maximum of 9 credits. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 223 . -
PH 561 - Solid State Physics
4 credits
Explores crystal structure and binding; reciprocal lattice; and mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, magnetic, and transport properties of solids. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 371 . -
PH 571 - Advanced Topics in Mathematical Physics
3 credits
Examines tensor analysis, Fourier analysis, analytic function theory, partial differential equations, and integral equations. Strongly recommended for students in physics and engineering who are planning graduate studies. Repeatable for a maximum of 9 credits. Grading option is designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. Must be eligible to take Graduate level coursework. Prerequisite(s): PH 371 .
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