PHYS Physics

Courses

PHYS-1401: College Physics I

Credit Hours 4
Fundamental principles of physics, using algebra and trigonometry, the principles and applications of classical mechanics and thermodynamics, including harmonic motion, mechanical waves and sound, physical systems, Newton’s Laws of Motion, and gravitation and other fundamental forces; with emphasis on problem solving. Laboratory activities will reinforce concepts discussed in lecture.

PHYS-1402: College Physics II

Credit Hours 4
Fundamental principles of physics, using algebra and trigonometry; the principles and applications of electricity and magnetism, including circuits, electrostatics, electromagnetism, waves, sound, light, optics, and modem physics topics; with emphasis on problem solving.

PHYS-1403: Stars and Galaxies

Credit Hours 4
This course is designed to give an overview of the visible universe. The objective throughout this course is to explain how astronomers know the many curious things they have learned about our universe. It brings the universe alive; in a sense; by showing the drama of the birth; evolution; and death of stars. What is the universe? Did the universe have a beginning? Will the universe last forever? These cosmological questions are answered in a qualitative way. The chances of life elsewhere in the universe; and how we might know about it are discussed. Planetarium and Observatory are used extensively. Methods of instruction include practical laboratory experiments; application of modern technology; and guided discussions. The course is structured around the lecture-lab format (i.e. depending on the topic; it may be necessary to do a hands-on activity before lecturing on a concept).

PHYS-1404: Solar System

Credit Hours 4
This course is an introduction to Astronomy. The approach is very qualitative, but simple mathematics skills are required. The course is designed to explain the origin of the Solar System including the Sun and its nine planets, and smaller bodies - satellites (moon) orbiting the planets, asteroids, and comets. The students are also exposed to the basic idea of the function of a telescope. Planetarium and Observatory are used extensively. Methods of instruction include practical laboratory experiments, application of modern technology, and guided discussions. This course is structured around the lecture-lab format (i.e., depending on the topic, it may be necessary to do a hands-on activity before lecturing on the concepts). The class meets twice a week, three hours per day.

PHYS-1405: Elementary Physics I

Credit Hours 4
Conceptual level survey of topics in physics intended for liberal arts and other non-science majors. Offered at C&I locations only.

PHYS-1415: Physical Science I

Credit Hours 4
This is an introductory course on Physical Science for the first year non-science major; strongly recommended for students in teacher training program. It is designed to provide skills needed for success in other science classes and for improving science literacy. The course emphasizes the basic concepts in Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Astronomy. Methods of instruction include practical laboratory experiments, application of modern technology, and guided discussions. The course is structured around the lecture-lab format (i.e., depending on the topic, it may be necessary to do a hands-on activity before lecturing on the concept). The class meets twice a week, three hours per day.

PHYS-2425: University Physics I

Credit Hours 4
Fundamental principles of physics, using calculus, for science, computer science, and engineering majors; the principles and applications of classical mechanics, including harmonic motion, physical systems and thermodynamics; and emphasis on problem solving.

PHYS-2426: University Physics II

Credit Hours 4
Principles of physics for science, computer science, and engineering majors, using calculus, involving the principles of electricity and magnetism, including circuits, electromagnetism, waves, sound, light, and optics.