Physics (B.A.)

The principles of classical mechanics, energy and motion designed for majors in the natural and health sciences. Algebra and trigonometry will be used in descriptions and problems.Three two-hour workshop sessions per week.Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 1600 and PHYS 2000 General Physics I.
Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in MATH 1470 Trigonometry or MATH-1400 or MATH 1600 Calculus I or a MATH ACT score of 27 or permission of the instructor. 

(Normally offered each fall semester.)

An introduction to classical mechanics, energy and motion designed for majors in physics, mathematics, and closely related sciences. Elements of calculus will be used in descriptions and problems.
Three two-hour workshop sessions per week.
Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 1600 Principles of Physics I and PHYS 2000.
Pre or Corequisite(s): MATH-1500 or MATH 1600 Calculus I or permission of the instructor.  PHYS 2010 Physics Seminar must be taken as a corequisite.

Normally offered each fall semester.

A continuation of PHYS 1600 with emphasis on waves, sound, electricity, magnetism, and electronics.
Three two-hour workshop sessions per week.
Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 1700 and PHYS 2100 General Physics II.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 1600 Principles of Physics I. 
(Normally offered each spring semester.)

A continuation of PHYS 2000 with emphasis on waves, sound, electricity, magnetism, and electronics.
Three two-hour workshop sessions per week.
Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 1700 Principles of Physics II and PHYS 2100.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 2000 General Physics I.
(Normally offered each spring semester.)

An introduction to the analysis, construction, and measurement of analog and digital circuits. Resistor circuits, with capacitors and inductors, in DC and AC steady state; fundamentals of semiconductor theory; passive and active semiconductor devices; operational amplifiers; combinational and sequential digital logic. Emphasis is placed on laboratory techniques and applications
Three lectures per week.
One laboratory per week.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 1700 Principles of Physics II or PHYS 2100 General Physics II, and MATH 1600 Calculus I or permission of instructor. 
(Normally offered each fall semester.)

An introduction to modern physics: the post-Newtonian developments of quantum mechanics and Einsteinian relativity, with focus on special relativity, the atomic and nuclear structure of matter, and the foundations of quantum physics. Principles of modern physics will be approached through the contexts of the historical developments and classic experiments that brought them to light. The laboratory experience incorporates experiments and computer-based investigations, with emphasis on the development of laboratory skills including detectors and measurement techniques, laboratory journaling, data analysis, and reporting of results. Practical aspects of nuclear radiation detection and safety will also be covered.
Three lectures per week.
One laboratory per week.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 1700 Principles of Physics II or PHYS 2100 General Physics II, and MATH 1610 Calculus II or permission of the instructor.
(Normally offered each spring semester.)

An advanced laboratory in which students extend and amplify the work of other courses. Work may be chosen in electrical measurements, physical optics, modern physics, or other areas of mutual interest.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor and approval of the department chair. 
(Normally offered each semester.)

Individual research projects of a creative nature for qualified physics students. Projects may be of a theoretical or experimental nature. Independent study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor and approval of the department chair.