Physics/Physical Science

Courses

PHY 100: Introduction to the Physical Sciences

A correlated presentation of the fundamental principles of the physical sciences for non-science majors. Lecture three hours per week and lab three hours per week, to be taken concurrently.

PHY 101: Introduction to the Physical Sciences

A correlated presentation of the fundamental principles of the physical sciences for non-science majors. Lecture three hours per week and lab three hours per week, to be taken concurrently.

PHY 160: Physical Geology

A study of the structure and materials of Earth's crust, the development of topographic features by weathering, erosion, volcanism, plate tectonics, and the relationship of Earth to the cosmos. Lecture and laboratory will be used as needed.

PHY 162: Descriptive Astronomy

General knowledge of the facts of astronomy, the methods by which they are obtained and the theories which account for them are integrated in light of recent information. Some aspects of space science will be treated in detail. Concepts of meteorology will also be considered. Lecture three hours per week.

PHY 164: Introduction to Meteorology

A study of the basic processes occurring in the earth's atmosphere. Topics to be covered include the influence of temperature and pressure on atmospheric circulation and wind-related storms and humidity, precipitation and clouds, all of which result in earth's weather and climatic systems. Lecture and lab will be used as needed.

PHY 202: College Physics I

A study of the fundamental principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and waves. Lecture meets 3 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 203.

PHY 203: Physics Laboratory I

A variety of physics laboratory techniques are used to demonstrate the theoretical principles under discussion in the lecture. Lab meets 3 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 202 or PHY 212.

PHY 204: College Physics II

A study of the fundamental principles of electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Lecture meets 3 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 205.

PHY 205: Physics Laboratory II

A variety of physics laboratory techniques are used to demonstrate the theoretical principles under discussion in the lecture. Lab meets 3 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 204 or PHY 214.

PHY 212: University Physics I

A study of the fundamental principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and waves, using the tools of calculus. Lecture meets 4 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 203.

PHY 214: University Physics II

A study of the fundamental principles of electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics, using the tools of calculus. Lecture meets 4 hours per week. Must be taken concurrently with PHY 205.

PHY 245: Earth Wisdom

The main objective of this course is to understand our planet and to explore how today's human societies can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation and resource limitations. This course will introduce a variety of topics from different disciplines; examples are the roles of developing and developed nations in climate change, the roles of societal and cultural practices in modifying the environment, the impact of globalization in different cultures, and cultural sustainability. In addition, students will work in teams and investigate ways of achieving sustainability on local, regional and global scales. (Also listed as CHM 245.)

PHY 388: Special Topics Course

The subject matter and method of this course will vary from semester to semester in line with current trends, and the needs and interests of students.

PHY 395: Physics Capstone Project

Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, the student designs an independent project that uses both theories and applications of physics. Applications can be in any area, including astronomy or meteorology. The final report must be written in scientific style, and a seminar presentation of the student's project at Scholar's Day is required before graduation.