Physics Course Descriptions
PHYS 101 Basic Concepts of Physics
(3)
PHYS 103 Physical
Principles of Telecommunications (3)
PHYS 107 Physics in the Arts
and Media (3)
PHYS 111 Introduction
to Energy and Environment (3)
PHYS 113 Introduction
to Astronomy (3)
PHYS 130 College Physics I,
Lecture (3)
PHYS 131 College Physics II,
Lecture (3)
PHYS 140 Physics for
Engineering I, Lecture (3)
PHYS 141 Physics for
Engineering II Lecture (3)
PHYS 201 The Wonders of Contemporary Physics (3)
PHYS 226 Experimental Astronomy (2)
PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture (3)
PHYS 240 Digital
Techniques and Applications (3)
PHYS 241 Microprocessors (3)
PHYS 260 Observational Astronomy (3)
PHYS 270 Statics and Dynamics I
(4)
PHYS 271 Statics and Dynamics II
(2)
PHYS 301 Thermodynamics
and Kinetic Theory (3)
PHYS 307 Principles of
Electronics, Lecture (3)
PHYS 310 Virtual Instrumentation (3)
PHYS
321 Theory and Applications of Electricity and Magnetism (3)
PHYS 330 Physics Seminar I (2)
PHYS 401
Principles and Applications of Modern Optics, Lecture
PHYS 404 Nuclear
Radiation: Theory and Applications (3)
PHYS 405 Introduction to
Quantum Mechanics (3)
PHYS 410 Classical Mechanics (4)
PHYS 420 Physics in Medicine (3)
PHYS 430 Physics Seminar II (2)
PHYS 448 Stellar Astronomy (3)
PHYS 449 Solar System Astronomy (3)
PHYS 480 Physics Research (3)
PHYS 1130 College
Physics I, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
PHYS 1131 College
Physics II, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
PHYS 1140
Physics for Engineering I, Rec./Laboratory (1)
PHYS 1141 Physics for
Engineering II, Rec./Lab (1)
PHYS 1230 Physics III,
Recitation/Laboratory (1)
PHYS 1307
Principles of Electronics, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
PHYS 1401 Optics,
Recitation/Laboratory (1)
PHYS 101 Basic Concepts of Physics
(3)
This is a one semester course which gives an overview of the basic principles of
physics including mechanics, heat, electricity and magnetism, light and sound, and modern
physics.
PHYS 103 Physical
Principles of Telecommunications (3)
This course explores the integration of the basic physical principles and their
applications to the dynamic field of telecommunications. It gives an understanding of the
contemporary explosion in communications technologies-computers, satellites, tape, disk,
fiber optics and new radio and telephone services. The central role of the computer is
examined.
PHYS 107 Physics in the Arts
and Media (3)
The course is designed especially for students who have an interest in art, music, and
media. Its purpose is to establish connections and relationships between human esthetic
expression and experience in these endeavors, and the existing important underlying
physical bases. Scientific inquiry and demonstrations are used to explore color, sound,
light, the ear, the eye, the role of symmetry and chaos, and electromagnetic
communications, along with the interaction between technology and society.
PHYS 111 Introduction
to Energy and Environment (3)
The course deals with forms and sources of energy, conversion for utilization;
resources and needs; environmental and social consequences.
PHYS 113 Introduction
to Astronomy (3)
Early astronomical thought and the role of astronomy in the development of modern science are introduced in this course. This involves a study of motion within the solar system along with the classification, structure, and types of stars. An introduction to stellar evolution and cosmology is also included.
PHYS 130 College Physics I,
Lecture (3)
Fundamental concepts and laws of mechanics, including static's, dynamics,
energy-momentum conservation and gravitation are examined in this course. Additional areas
of study include behavior of fluids, vibrations and wave motion, along with temperature,
heat transfer and calorimetry. Instruction includes 4 hours of lecture,
demonstration/discussion and problem solving per week.
Pre-requisite: Math 175 Enhanced Pre-Calculus
Co-requisite: PHYS 1130 College Physics I, Recitation/Laboratory
PHYS 131 College Physics II,
Lecture (3)
This course is a continuation of Physics 131 and covers the study of heat, including
kinetic theory, the laws of thermodynamics, electrostatics, dc and ac circuits, the
electromagnetic interaction, geometric and wave optics. Instruction includes 4 hours of
lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving per week.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 130, College Physics I, Lecture.
Co-requisite: PHYS 1131 College Physics II, Recitation/Laboratory
PHYS 140 Physics for
Engineering I, Lecture (3)
This course develops the concepts and laws of mechanics, especially conservation laws,
and includes scalar and vector quantities; rectilinear and circular motion; equilibrium;
work energy and momentum; elements of fluid static's and dynamics; heat and
thermodynamics. Instruction includes 4 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving per
week with emphasis on applications.
Pre-requisite: MATH 192 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
Co-requisite: PHYS 1140 Physics for Engineering I, Recitation/Laboratory
PHYS 141 Physics for
Engineering II Lecture (3)
This course is a continuation of Physics 140 and develops a conceptual, quantitative
and applied understanding of electric fields and electrostatics; dc circuits; magnetic
fields and properties of matter; ac circuits; electromagnetic waves; geometric and wave
optics. Instruction includes 4 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem
solving per week with emphasis on applications.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 140 Physics for Engineering I, Lecture
Co-requisite: PHYS 1141 Physics for Engineering II, Recitation/Laboratory
PHYS 201 The Wonders of Contemporary Physics (3)
A journey through the past 100 years of
physics achievements culminates with the
study of the current frontier of an expanding
universe of galaxies that explores how
the microworld and cosmos are intimately
linked to fundamental questions concerning
the origin, evolution, and possible fate of
the universe itself. The course examines how
elements of relativity, radiation, entropy,
particle physics, fundamental forces, and
grand unification theory converge and attempt
to explain the cosmos.
PHYS 226 Experimental Astronomy (2)
This course focuses on basic research and field experiences in astronomy.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 113 Introduction to Astronomy
PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture (3)
Electromagnetic waves-theory, production, propagation, and detection; applied optical
techniques; modern physics, relativity and its implications, the Bohr atom; elements of
atomic and nuclear structure; radiation and its measurement are examined. Instruction
includes 4 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving per week with
emphasis on applications.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 141 Physics for Engineering II, Lecture or PHYS 131 College
Physics II, Lecture
Co-requisite: PHYS 1230 Physics III, Recitation/Laboratory
PHYS 240 Digital
Techniques and Applications (3)
This course deals with logical design and optimization of digital computers and digital
computers and digital devices. Introduction to number systems, codes and Boolean Algebra.
Electronics and solid state components-gates, flip flops, shift registers, docks,
counters, adders, and other arithmetic circuits, and memory devices are explored.
Experiments include design of logic circuits, using discrete and integrated circuit
components.
PHYS 241 Microprocessors (3)
This class covers all the basic principles of the functioning of the INTEL 8085 microprocessor family. Machine and Assembly languages are analyzed as they apply to the instruction written in the microprocessor.
PHYS 260 Observational Astronomy (3)
This course teaches students how to use high quality amateur telescopes including optics, the use of setting circles, mounting, and astrophotography. Celestial coordinate systems (equaloria) are also taught
PHYS 270 Statics and Dynamics I
(4)
Classification and systems of forces, their resultants, geometric and analytical
conditions for equilibrium, frames, trusses, moments of inertia, rotation of a rigid
body, principles of work, energy and impulse and momentum are studied in this course.
Instruction includes 4 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving per
week with emphasis on computer simulations and applications.
Pre-requisites: PHYS 141 Physics for Engineering II, Lecture or PHYS 131 College
Physics II, Lecture and
MATH 192 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
PHYS 271 Statics and Dynamics II
(2)
The kinetics of rigid bodies detailing the effects of forces, work, energy, impulse,
and momentum, including mechanical vibrations are explored in this course. Instruction
includes 2 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving per week with
emphasis on computer simulations and applications.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 270 Statics and Dynamics I
PHYS 301 Thermodynamics and
Kinetic Theory (3)
The operational definitions of heat, internal energy, entropy, absolute temperature are
developed along with the theory of specific heats. Thermodynamic functions and relations
are applied to heat engines and other physical systems and kinetic theory of gases,
viscosity, and conductivity are included.
Pre-requisites: PHYS 131 College Physics II, Lecture or PHYS 141 Physics for
Engineering II, Lecture
PHYS 307 Principles of
Electronics, Lecture (3)
Circuit theory, techniques of electrical measurements, principles and operation of
solid state devices, such as junctions diodes, bipolar transistors. FET's and MOSFET's ,
rectification and filtering, feedback, amplifiers, nonlinear circuits are examined. The
course provides an understanding of the electronics applied to various fields. Instruction
includes 4 hours of lecture, demonstration/discussion and problem solving peer week with
emphasis on applications.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 141 Physics for Engineering II, Lecture or PHYS 131 College
Physics II, Lecture
PHYS 310 Virtual Instrumentation (3)
This course covers the basics principles of virtual instrumentation including use of IEEE GPIB, RS232 interfaces, and data acquisition boards. It is an introduction to the use of computer interfacing for data collection and instrument manipulation in laboratory experiments using state-of-the-art software such as LabVIEW™. Particular attention is given to the practical aspects of interfacing a computer to various instruments including timing issues, real-time data acquisition and instrument control, instrument status, and acquisition speed.
Pre-requisite: Phys 230 or permission from the instructor
PHYS 321
Theory and Applications of Electricity and Magnetism (3)
This course examines electrostatic fields in vacuum and material media, magnetostatic
fields, electromagnetic induction, magnetic fields in matter, Maxwell's equations,
propagation of electromagnetic waves, in free space and matter, reflection, and radiation,
guided waves.
Pre-requisites: PHYS 141 Physics for Engineering II, Lecture; and PHYS 131 College
Physics II, Lecture
Co-requisite: MATH 311 Differential Equations for Engineers
PHYS 330 Physics Seminar I (2)
This course examines electrostatic fields in vacuum and material media, magnetostatic
This course provides students with the opportunity to present the results of original research conducted as part of their studies in the program or literature research of current or special topics and to attend talks given by professionals in different physics related fields. The students will learn how to undertake scientific communication about research projects and results with colleagues and the general public.
Pre-requisites: Phys 230, Phys 321, permission of the instructor, and junior status.
PHYS 401
Principles and Applications of Modern Optics, Lecture (3)
Four different areas of optics are studied in this course, wave optics (polarization,
diffraction, and interference), geometric optics (lenses, mirrors, and optical
instruments), quantum and coherent optics (lasers and fiber optics). Instruction includes
4 hours of lecture, demonstration/ discussion and problem solving per week with emphasis
on applications.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture
PHYS 404 Nuclear
Radiation: Theory and Applications (3)
This course considers the discovery and nature of radioactivity, nuclear decay
processes, determination of half-life, interaction with various forms of matter,
instrumentation and detection principles, radioactive dating and tracing procedures,
sources of environmental exposure, and effects on the human body and materials.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture.
PHYS 405 Introduction to
Quantum Mechanics (3)
This course is designed to give the upper level physics students a basic understanding
of quantum physics, including black body radiation, the photoelectric effect, the
uncertainty principle, one dimensional Schroedinger equation, the quantum mechanical
oscillator, the hydrogen atom and other selected topics. Discussion of theory and
applications, including problems and demonstrations are conducted.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture; and MATH 311 Differential Equations for
Engineers
PHYS 410 Classical Mechanics (4)
This course covers the theoretical foundations of newtonian mechanics of particles and systems. Various mathematical tools of theoretical physics to understand Lagrange's and Hamilton's approaches to the study of mechanical systems. Topics covered include the theory of small oscillations and mechanical waves, rigid bodies, stability, linearization methods, forced vibrators and perturbation theory, fluids and mechanics of continuous media.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture; and MATH 311 Differential Equations for
Engineers
PHYS 420 Physics in Medicine (3)
This course is designed for students who with to pursue a career in the health
professions or who have an interest in applied physics problems. A variety of applied
physics techniques in medicine are covered including, medical imaging, (X-ray, CAT scans,
MRI, PET, and ultrasound imaging), fiber optics, medical lasers nuclear medicine, and
other applications.
Pre-requisite PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture
PHYS 430 Physics Seminar II (2)
This is a capstone course that provides students with the opportunity to present in oral and written form the results of original advanced research conducted as part of their studies in the last year of the program or literature research of current and/or special topics in physics. As seniors, students should provide evidence that they can perform at a level required by current industry standards or expected by graduate programs from their incoming students.
Pre-requisites: Phys 405 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, PHYS 330 Seminar I, permission of the instructor, and senior status.
PHYS 448 Stellar Astronomy (3)
This course presents an introduction to the physical characteristics, structure, and evolution of the stars, nuclear processes, and the formation of the elements in the stellar interior, the interstellar medium, and the distribution of stars in space.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 113 Introduction to Astronomy
PHYS 449 Solar System Astronomy (3)
This course covers the physical characteristics of the sun and planets, Newton’s and Kepler’s Laws, orbit theory applied to planetary systems and binary stars, and solar-terrestrial relationships.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 113 Introduction to Astronomy
Recommended: GEOS 111 Principles of
Earth Science or GEOS 112 Introduction
to Geology.
PHYS 480 Physics Research (3)
This is a course individually designed to provide undergraduate students with training in Physics research. A project is undertaken under the guidance and supervision of a faculty member. Written reports and a final paper are required.
Pre-requisite Permission of the instructor, approval of the chairperson, and junior or senior status.
PHYS 1130 College
Physics I, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in Physics 130 are
presented in this course. Instruction includes structured and open-ended lab experiments
with recitation.
Co-requisite: PHYS 130 College Physics I, Lecture
PHYS 1131 College
Physics II, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in Physics 131 are
presented in this course. Instruction includes structured and open-ended lab. Experiments
with recitation are performed to verify or discover the principles of physics.
Co-requisite: PHYS 131 College Physics II, Lecture
PHYS 1140 Physics
for Engineering I, Rec./Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in Physics 140 are
performed to verify or discover the principles of physics. Instruction includes structured
and open-ended lab. Experiments with recitation.
Co-requisite: PHYS 140 Physics for Engineering I, Lecture or PHYS 131 College
Physics II, Lecture
PHYS 1141 Physics for
Engineering II, Rec./Lab (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in physics 141 are
performed to verify or discover the principles of physics. Instruction includes structured
and open-ended lab. Experiments with recitation.
Co-requisite: PHYS 141 Physics for Engineering II, Rec./Lab or PHYS 131
College Physics II, Lecture
PHYS 1230 Physics III,
Recitation/Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in physics 230 are
performed to verify or discover the principles of physics. Instruction includes structured
and open-ended lab. Experiments with recitation.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 131 College Physics II , Lecture or PHYS 141 Physics for
Engineering II, Lecture.
Co-requisite PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture.
PHYS 1307
Principles of Electronics, Recitation/Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in Physics 307 are
performed to verify or discover the principles of physics. Instruction includes structured
and open-ended lab. Experiments with recitation. Use of computer software packages to
simulate and analyze complex circuits.
Co-requisite: PHYS 307 Principles of Electronics, Lecture
PHYS 1401 Optics,
Recitation/Laboratory (1)
Correlated student laboratory experiments for most areas cited in Physics 401 are
performed in this course. Introduction includes structured and open-ended laboratory
experiments with recitation to verify or discover the principles of optics. Students use
of computer software packages to simulate and analyze complex optical systems .
Pre-requisite: PHYS 230 Physics III, Lecture
Co-requisite: MATH 311 Differential Equations for Engineers.