Physics (PHYS)
PHYS 1111 Introductory Computational Physics 3 Credits (3)
Introduction to computational techniques for the solution of physics-related problems. (2+2P)
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in MATH 1220G or MATH 1250G or MATH 1511G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 1112 Introductory Physics for the Health Sciences 3 Credits (3)
Algebra-level introduction to topics required for the Health Sciences including basic mechanics (including sound, mechanical waves and fluids), heat and thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics and electromagnetic waves, atomic and nuclear physics and applications to medical imaging.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1215
Learning Outcomes
- The objective of the course is to familiarize the student with the concepts and methods used in the underlying physics associated with various Health Science disciplines.
- The course will demonstrate how the basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic waves and optics can be applied to solve particular problems in Health Sciences applications. Introduces the student to selected topics in modern physics including quantum physics, atomic and nuclear physics.
PHYS 1115G Survey of Physics with Laboratory 4 Credits (4)
Overview of the concepts and basic phenomena of physics. This course provides a largely descriptive and qualitative treatment with a minimum use of elementary mathematics to solve problems. No previous knowledge of physics is assumed. (3+3P) Provides lab.
Provides Lab
Learning Outcomes
- Apply concepts of classical mechanics (such as velocity, acceleration, force, inertia, momentum, torque, work, energy) to simple static and dynamic systems.
- Apply concepts of thermodynamics (such as heat, temperature, internal energy, entropy) to simple processes.
- Apply concepts of electricity and magnetism (such as fields, potential, charge conservation, static and dynamic induction) to simple circuits, motors, and other simple electrical contrivances.
- Apply simple geometric and wave optics in simple situations.
- Apply quantum theory in simple situations such as the Bohr model of the atom, dual nature of light, atomic spectra.
- Apply simple concepts of relativity.
PHYS 1125G The Physics of Music 4 Credits (4)
Introduction for non-science majors to basic concepts, laws, and skills in physics, in the context of a study of sound, acoustics, and music. (3+2P)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate converting units and other aspects of dimensional analysis in the working of numerical problems.
- Apply basic classical mechanics to static and dynamic fluids, including Archimedes’ principle andBernoulli’s principle.
- Apply the general properties of waves to simple models of musical instruments.
- Demonstrate knowledge of basic operating principles of wind, string, and percussion instruments.
- Demonstrate knowledge of how objectively measurable properties of sound waves correspond to the perceptions of pitch, loudness, and timbre.
- Demonstrate understanding of the description of vibrations and waves in terms of Fourier’s Theorem and normal modes.
- Demonstrate understanding of vocalization in terms of physical principles such as resonance and fluid dynamics.
- Demonstrate understanding of how the ear works.
- Basics of music theory, modes, temperaments, consonance and dissonance 1
- Building acoustics 1
- Connections to other physical topics such as but not limited to: cosmology, microwave background radiation, quantum theory, Bohr model, entropy, electromagnetic waves and special relativity, string theory...
PHYS 1230G Algebra-Based Physics I 3 Credits (3)
An algebra-based treatment of Newtonian mechanics. Topics include kinematics and dynamics in one and two dimensions, conservation of energy and momentum, rotational motion, equilibrium, and fluids.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1230L
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate converting units and other aspects of dimensional analysis in the working of numerical problems.
- Apply principles of Newtonian mechanics to predict and account for simple phenomena modeled by the motion of particles in one and two dimensions.
- Apply principles of Newtonian mechanics to predict and account for simple phenomena modeled by the motion of a rigid body in two dimensions.
- Apply Newton’s theory of gravitation to circular orbits and demonstrate understanding of how Kepler’s laws of planetary motion provide the empirical foundation for Newton’s theory.
- Apply the mathematics of vectors to the principles of Newtonian mechanics.
- Apply principles of Newtonian mechanics to the case of static and dynamic incompressible fluids, including Archimedes’ and Bernoulli’s principles.
- sound
- waves
- heat 1
- oscillatory motion 1
- thermodynamics 1
- Describe the fundamental properties of periodic motion. 1
- Explain and apply the basic concepts of sound and wave motion. 1
- Explain the basic concepts of heat and thermodynamics.
PHYS 1230L Algebra-based Physics I Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 1230.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1230G
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the scientific method.
- Test ideas using modern laboratory equipment.
- Estimate experimental uncertainties using statistical methods.
- Use computers to analyze and report laboratory results.
- Draw appropriate conclusions from quantitative scientific observations.
- Accurately and clearly communicate the results of scientific experiments.
PHYS 1240G Algebra-Based Physics II 3 Credits (3)
The second half of a two semester algebra-based introduction to Physics. This course covers electricity, magnetism and optics.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 1230G or PHYS 2230G
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1240G
PHYS 1240L Algebra-based Physics II Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 1240.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1240G
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the scientific method.
- Test ideas using modern laboratory equipment.
- Estimate experimental uncertainties using statistical methods.
- Use computers to analyze and report laboratory results.
- Draw appropriate conclusions from quantitative scientific observations.
- Accurately and clearly communicate the results of scientific experiments.
PHYS 1310G Calculus -Based Physics I 3 Credits (3)
A calculus level treatment of classical mechanics and waves, which is concerned with the physical motion concepts, forces, energy concepts, momentum, rotational motion, angular momentum, gravity, and static equilibrium.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in MATH 1511G or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1310L
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the relationships among position, velocity, and acceleration as functions of time.
- Use the equations of kinematics to describe motion under constant acceleration.
- Analyze linear motion using Newton’s laws, force, and linear momentum.
- Analyze rotational motion using torque and angular momentum.
- Analyze motion using work and energy.
- Oscillations,
- Waves,
- Sound,
- Thermodynamics 1
- Describe and apply the fundamental properties of waves, oscillations, and periodic motion. 1
- Describe and apply the laws of thermodynamics.
PHYS 1310L Calculus - Based Physics I Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in Calculus-based Physics I. Students will apply the principles and concepts highlighting the main objectives covered in coursework for Calculus-based Physics I.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1310G
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a reasonable hypothesis.
- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Take measurements and record measured quantities to the appropriate precision.
- Estimate error sources in experimental techniques.
- Apply appropriate methods of analysis to raw data, including using graphical and statistical methods via computer-based tools.
- Determine whether results and conclusions are reasonable.
- Present experimental results in written form in appropriate style and depth.
- Experience the relationship between theory and experiment.
PHYS 1311 Problems in Calculus-Based Physics I 0.5 Credits (0.5)
This is a supplemental course for Calculus-based Physics I. Repeatable: up to 1 credits.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1310G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 1320G Calculus-Based Physics II 3 Credits (3)
A calculus level treatment of classical electricity and magnetism. It is strongly recommended that this course is taken at the same time as Calculus-based Physics II laboratory.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 2110 or PHYS 1310G and MATH 1521G or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1320L
Learning Outcomes
- Apply the concepts of electric charge, electric field and electric potential to solve problems.
- Sketch the electric field in the vicinity of point, line, sheet, and spherical distributions of static electric charge.
- Sketch the magnetic field in the vicinity of line, ring, sheet, and solenoid distributions of steady current.
- Describe the relationship between electric field and electric potential.
- Calculate the Lorentz force on a moving charge for simple geometries of the fields and use it to analyze the motion of charged particles.
- Apply the integral forms of Maxwell’s equations.
- Calculate the energy of electromagnetic fields.
- Analyze DC circuits.
- Oscillations, Waves, and Sound 1
- Thermodynamics 1
- Optics 1
- Describe the function of simple lenses. 1
- Describe two-slit interference 1
- Describe interference by a slit and a circular aperture 1
- Analyze AC circuits 1
- Describe and apply the fundamental properties of waves, oscillations, and periodic motion 1
- Describe and apply the laws of thermodynamics
PHYS 1320L Calculus-Based Physics II Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
A series of Laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in Calculus-Based Physics II. Students will apply the principles and concepts highlighting the main objectives covered in coursework for Calculus-Based Physics II.
Prerequisite(s): A C- or better in PHYS 2110L or PHYS 1310L
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1320G
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a reasonable hypothesis.
- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Take measurements and record measured quantities to the appropriate precision.
- Estimate error sources in experimental techniques.
- Apply appropriate methods of analysis to raw data, including using graphical and statistical methods via computer-based tools.
- Determine whether results and conclusions are reasonable.
- Present experimental results in written form in appropriate style and depth.
- Experience the relationship between theory and experiment.
PHYS 1321 Problems in Calculus-Based Physics II 0.5 Credits (0.5)
This is a supplemental course for Calculus-based Physics II.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 1320G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2110 Mechanics 3 Credits (3)
Newtonian mechanics.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2110L
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): MATH 1511G or higher
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2110L Experimental Mechanics 1 Credit (1)
Laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 2110. Science majors. (3P)
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2110
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2111 Problems in Mechanics 1 Credit (1)
This Optional workshop as a supplement to PHYS 2110. The tutorial sessions focus on reasoning and hands-on problem solving. Repeatable: up to 1 credit.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2110
Learning Outcomes
- analyze real world phenomena by constructing simplified idealized models and appropriate mathematical reasoning to make predictions or explain a phenomena or function.
- use multiple representations to build, interpret and communicate the model, including visual representations such as sketches or diagrams, mathematical expressions, graphs, or text.
- in the contexts of concepts and physical laws discussed in PHYS 2110, apply quantitative analysis to solve problems, including the use of scientific notation, unit conversion and vector algebra.
- self-check reasonableness of assumptions and solutions, making use of limiting cases or symmetry arguments.
- develop learning strategies and use metacognition to promote thinking in the discipline.
PHYS 2120 Heat, Light, and Sound 3 Credits (3)
Calculus-level treatment of thermodynamics, geometrical and physical optics, and sound. Repeatable: up to 3 credits.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 2110 or PHYS 1310G, and MATH 1511G or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2120L
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2120L Heat, Light, and Sound Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
Laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 2120. Science majors. (+3P)
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 2110L or PHYS 1310L
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2120
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a reasonable hypothesis.
- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Take measurements and record measured quantities to the appropriate precision.
- Estimate error sources in experimental techniques.
- Apply appropriate methods of analysis to raw data, including using graphical and statistical methods via computer-based tools.
- Determine whether results and conclusions are reasonable.
- Present experimental results in written form in appropriate style and depth.
- Understand the relationship between theory and experiment.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2120
Learning Outcomes
- analyze real world phenomena by constructing simplified idealized models and appropriate mathematical reasoning to make predictions or explain a phenomena or function.
- use multiple representations to build, interpret and communicate the model, including visual representations such as sketches or diagrams, mathematical expressions, graphs, or text.
- in the contexts of concepts and physical laws discussed in PHYS 2120, apply quantitative analysis to solve problems involving wave propagation and interference, geometric optics, heat transfer and thermodynamics.
- self-check reasonableness of assumptions and solutions, making use of limiting cases or symmetry arguments.
- develop learning strategies and use metacognition to promote thinking in the discipline.
PHYS 2140 Electricity and Magnetism 3 Credits (3)
Charges and matter, the electric field, Gauss law, the electric potential, the magnetic field, Amperes law, Faradays law, electric circuits, alternating currents, Maxwells equations, and electromagnetic waves. Repeatable: up to 3 credits.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 2110 or PHYS 1310G, and MATH 1511G or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2140L
Prerequisite(s)/Corequisite(s): MATH 1521G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2140L Electricity & Magnetism Laboratory 1 Credit (1)
Laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 2140. (+3P)
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 2110 or PHYS 1310G
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2140
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a reasonable hypothesis.
- Work effectively as part of a team.
- Take measurements and record measured quantities to the appropriate precision.
- Estimate error sources in experimental techniques.
- Apply appropriate methods of analysis to raw data, including using graphical and statistical methods via computer-based tools.
- Determine whether results and conclusions are reasonable.
- Present experimental results in written form in appropriate style and depth.
- Understand the relationship between theory and experiment.
Optional workshop as a supplement to PHYS 2140. The tutorial sessions focus on reasoning and hands-on problem solving.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2140
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze real-world phenomena by constructing simplified idealized models and appropriate mathematical reasoning to make predictions or explain a phenomenon or function.
- Use multiple representations to build, interpret and communicate the model, including visual representations such as sketches or diagrams, mathematical expressions, graphs, or text.
- In the contexts of concepts and physical laws discussed in PHYS 2140, apply quantitative analysis to solve problems, including the use of symmetry to study electric and magnetic fields. Practice concepts of calculus applied to charge and current distributions.
- Self-check reasonableness of assumptions and solutions, making use of limiting cases or symmetry arguments.
- Develop learning strategies and use metacognition to promote thinking in the discipline.
PHYS 2230G General Physics for Life Sciences I 3 Credits (3)
This algebra-based introduction to general physics covers mechanics, waves, sound, and heat. Special emphasis is given to applications in the life sciences. This course is recommended for students in the life sciences and those preparing for the physics part of the MCAT.
Prerequisite(s): A C or better in MATH 1215 or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2230G
Learning Outcomes
- Modeling: analyze real-world phenomena by deciding what information is relevant and constructing simplified idealized models and appropriate mathematical reasoning to make predictions or explain phenomena or function; use multiple representations to build, interpret and communicate the model, including visual representations such as sketches or diagrams, mathematical expressions, graphs, or text; critique assumptions and determine how to test the validity of a model and use the comparison of experimental data and prediction to refine the model.
- Conceptual understanding: describes the motion of any object in terms of displacement, velocity, and acceleration; analyze external forces acting on an object and determine if a system is in equilibrium or relate the net force to changes in motion; predict or analyze motion using conservation laws for energy and momentum; analyze forces and torques for a rigid object in static equilibrium; for a static fluid determine pressure and the buoyant force; apply idealized models of fluid flow to the circulatory system; describe the properties of pressure waves known as “sound”, apply the model of standing waves to musical instruments and discuss how sound is used to sense the environment; predict qualitative changes in the internal energy of a thermodynamic system when energy has been transferred due to work or heat and justify those predictions using conservation of energy (First law of thermodynamics). Identify which heat transfer processes occur in a described situation.
- Quantitative reasoning: use a physics problem-solving strategy: Identify relevant concepts; Introduce and study simplified models; Use symmetry arguments; Establish the relation between known and unknown quantities; Calculate a quantitative result using appropriate mathematical methods; Self-check reasonableness of assumptions and solutions: use scientific notation accurately and convert units if necessary.
- Communicating scientific information: interpret or generate graphs or other visual representations and be able to switch between various representations including text, mathematical description, or diagrams.
PHYS 2230L Laboratory to General Physics for Life Sciences I 1 Credit (1)
Laboratory experiments in topics associated with material presented in PHYS 2230G.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2230G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2231 Problems in Algebra-based Physics I 1 Credit (1)
This optional workshop supplements Physics for Life Sciences I. The tutorial sessions focus on reasoning and hands-on problem solving.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2230G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2240G General Physics for Life Sciences II 3 Credits (3)
This algebra-based course covers electricity, magnetism, light, atomic physics, and radioactivity. Special emphasis is given to applications in the life sciences This course is recommended for students in the life sciences and those preparing for the physics part of the MCAT.
Prerequisite(s): a C- or better in PHYS 1230G or PHYS 2230G, and MATH 1220G or higher
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2230L
Learning Outcomes
- Modeling: analyze real world phenomena by constructing simplified idealized models (an abstract description) that allow making predictions or explaining a phenomena or function; use multiple representations to build and communicate the model, including sketches, mathematical expressions, diagrams or graphs; decide what information is relevant and critique assumptions and models of others; determine how to test the validity of a model and use comparison of experimental data and prediction to refine the model.
- Conceptual understanding: electric or magnetic fields can be used to describe interactions of objects that contain charges with their surroundings; changes that occur as a result of interactions are constrained by conservation laws (such as conservation of energy, conservation of charge or conservation of nucleon number); many macroscopic properties of materials can be described using microscopic models or related to their geometry; electromagnetic radiation can be modeled as a wave or as fundamental particles (photons); the direction of propagation of a wave may change when it encounters a boundary surface between two media of different properties (reflection or refraction); the spontaneous radioactive decay of nuclei is described by probability.
- Quantitative reasoning: apply quantitative analysis and appropriate mathematical reasoning to describe or explain phenomena; use scientific notation accurately and convert units if necessary.
- Communicating scientific information: interpret or generate graphs or other visual representations (e.g. field lines, equipotential lines) and be able to switch between various representations including text, mathematical description, or diagrams.
PHYS 2240L Laboratory to General Physics for Life Sciences II 1 Credit (1)
Laboratory experiments in topics associated with material presented in PHYS 2240G.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2240G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2241 Problems in Algebra-based Physics II 1 Credit (1)
This optional workshop is a supplement to Physics for Life Science II. The tutorial sessions focus on reasoning and hands-on problem solving. Repeatable: up to 1 credits.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 2240G
Learning Outcomes
- See course syllabus.
PHYS 2996 Topics in Physics 1-3 Credits
Topics to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. Repeatable: for a maximum of 12 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- Varies
PHYS 2997 Independent Study in Physics 3 Credits (3)
Individual analytical or laboratory studies directed by a faculty member. Repeatable: for a maximum of 6 credits. Provides lab.
Provides Lab
Learning Outcomes
- Varies