41 courses with the subject PHYS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
PHYS 105Mechanical Physics I1.00
Covers fundamental principles of Newtonian mechanics and their applications into science, engineering, and in particular, architecture. Selected topics including waves, fluids, optics, electricity and magnetism, and thermal physics are aimed toward applications in the geosciences. Not suitable for students majoring in programs or concentrations requiring two or more semesters of physics. When Offered: Fall semester only, but not necessarily every year Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
This introductory course emphasizes concepts and principles of mechanics, heat, waves, and sound. The focus is on building concepts, grasping principles, and learning how consequences of principles and concepts can be quantitatively calculated and measured. Students may not take this course after having completed PHYS 232. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None Click here for Course Offerings by term
Corequisite
PHYS 111
PHYS 112Fundamental Physics II1.00
Develops concepts and principles of electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics. Students may not take this course after having completed PHYS 233. When Offered: Spring semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
Diverse exercises and tasks, starting with fundamental laws of electromagnetism, extending to optics, and finishing with the laboratories that underpin modern physics. Required corequisite to PHYS 112 .
None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None Click here for Course Offerings by term
Corequisite
PHYS 112
PHYS 125How Physics Sees the World
Introduces students to the powerful toolkit of the physicist, which has opened profound and unexpected vistas on the Universe over several centuries. The practice of physics deploys these tools to understand Nature in seemingly disparate domains, from the structure of atoms to the structure of the cosmos, and phenomena both familiar and far-out. Students consider how physics concepts help make sense of observations of Nature - that is, how physics models the world - with each section applying physics tools and techniques to phenomena from a particular sub-field of the discipline, such as biomechanics, astrophysics, or atomic physics. Students cultivate expertise in physics by reading literature, making and analyzing
Required corequisite to PHYS 125. Involves students in hands-on experiments, computation, and other activities designed to introduce them to the principles of physical modeling, experimentation, and sense- making. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
An introduction to the process through which physics knowledge developed in the modern era. How did scientists determine whether the things they studied consisted of waves or particles; that is, what are the defining characteristics of each, and how can they be measured? To answer these questions, we introduce ideas from mechanics, electricity, and special relativity. Students are then confronted with one of physics's great mysteries: how can the same object act as either a particle or a wave? While we may not completely resolve this mystery, we learn a little quantum mechanics that helps us predict the behavior of these systems. Some physics background is helpful, but none is assumed. Students must be very comfortable with algebra and trigonometry, but they will not need calculus until the next physics course. Two lectures, two problem-solving recitations, and one laboratory meeting per week. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Recommended: This course is required for students planning to major in physics, physics-astronomy, or physical science, and for students interested in pre-engineering. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
Students who plan to continue into PHYS 232 should co-register for MATH 161
Corequisite
PHYS 131L, PHYS 131RE
PHYS 131LAtoms and Waves Lab0.25
Experiments inquire about the existence of atoms, photons, and their properties. Required corequisite to PHYS 131. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
This half-semester course is an introduction to computational physics, providing the mathematical foundation required for sophomore- through senior-level physics courses. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
Required corequisite to PHYS 201. Credits: 0.00 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: None Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
A one-semester introduction to the mathematical methods of physics, with an emphasis on applications and how these methods are used to approach various problems. The course will cover topics such as ordinary differential equations, complex numbers and Euler's equation, linear systems, Fourier series, Fourier transforms, computational techniques, series expansions, cylindrical and spherical coordinate systems, vector differentiation, divergence and curl, integration methods and multi-dimensional integrals. These topics will be brought to bear on physical problems such as the damped and driven oscillator, coupled oscillators, electric dipoles, beat frequencies, electromagnetic waves and electrostatic boundary-value problems.
A study of classical mechanics using astronomical themes. The principles of kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws, and gravitation are developed and used to understand the properties of astronomical objects such as planetary systems, binary stars, and galaxies. Treatment is more thorough than in PHYS 111. Differential and integral calculus and vector manipulation are used throughout. Two lectures, two recitation meetings, and one laboratory session per week. When Offered: Spring semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Restrictions: Students may not take this course after having completed PHYS 431. Recommended: Required for students planning to major in physics, astronomy-physics, or physical science, and for students interested in pre-engineering. It is also recommended for chemistry majors. Students who plan to take physics courses beyond PHYS 232 should co-register in MATH 163 (formerly MATH 113) and PHYS 201. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
None Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None Click here for Course Offerings by term
Corequisite
PHYS 232
PHYS 233Intro Electricity & Magnetism1.00
The classical theory of electricity and magnetism is assembled from observations of nature and physical inference, using differential and integral calculus. Emphasis is on the fundamental roles played by the electric and magnetic fields, their geometrical properties, and their dynamics. The course covers the integral form of Maxwell's equations. Principles of elementary circuits and optics are also included. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Restrictions: Students are not eligible to take this course after completing PHYS 432. Recommended: This course is required for students planning to major in the physical sciences and pre- engineering. Students planning to take physics courses beyond PHYS 233 should co-register in PHYS 205. Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
PHYS 232 and MATH 163 both with a grade of C- or higher.
Corequisite
PHYS 233L
PHYS 233LIntroduction to Electricity and Magnetism Lab0.25
Required corequisite to PHYS 233. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
Opportunity for individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty. Credits: variable Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
A study of physical optics and properties of light, such as dispersion, polarization, interference and diffraction. Advanced topics include optical instrumentation, Fourier optics, laser physics, and holography. The course prepares students for knowledgeable use of optical instruments in fields such as photonics, engineering and astronomy. It teaches modern laser techniques for use in basic and applied research. Four lecture meetings and one laboratory meeting each week. When Offered: Fall semester only, in alternate years Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
PHYS 233 and PHYS 205 all with a grade of C- or higher.
Corequisite
PHYS 304L
PHYS 304LPhysical Optics Lab0.25
An experience in optical methods of manipulating laser beams and their use in imaging and physical measurements. Required corequisite to PHYS 304. When Offered: Fall semester only, in alternate years Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
This is an optional junior-year research experience open to qualified students. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, each student works on an experimental or theoretical project that ideally produces original
PHYS 325Evolution of Form and Function in Biomineralizing Marine Animals1.0
Students will explore the form and function of biomineralizing skeletons through mathematical and physical modeling and analysis of marine species alive today and preserved in the fossil record. From atoms to ecosystems, students will consider how organisms build their skeletons and the variety of skeletal compositions and shapes that have evolved throughout Earth history. Research-based modules and student-led discussion of the primary literature will explore the ways in which environmental conditions, including near-term climate projections, affect biominerals and ecological interactions. Crosslisted: GEOL 325 Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Confronting Collective Challenges or Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
PHYS 334Introduction to Quantum Mechanics and Special Relativity1.00
Provides the mathematical and conceptual foundation to understand two important developments in modern physics: special relativity and quantum theory, concentrating on wave mechanics. When Offered: Spring semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
PHYS 233 and PHYS 205 both with a grade of C- or higher.
Corequisite
None
PHYS 336Electronics
A comprehensive treatment of basic electronics, both digital and analog. The digital section includes combinational and sequential logic, integrated circuits, and interfacing. The analog section includes DC and AC circuits, filters, diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers.
A hands-on experience in designing and wiring electronic circuits and their interfacing to electronic boards such as Arduino and Teensy. Includes mid-semester and final free-design group projects. Required corequisite to PHYS 336. When Offered: Spring semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
An introduction to biological physics including a survey of topics such as diffusion, Brownian motion, non- Newtonian fluids, self-assembly, cooperativity, bioenergetics, and nerve impulses, as well as experimental techniques and analytical approaches. Students first develop the interdisciplinary knowledge needed to address biophysical questions. The course then focuses on the reading, presentation, and critique of current biophysics research literature. Although challenging in its breadth, this course is intended to be accessible to juniors and seniors majoring in physics, chemistry, or biology. Crosslisted: BIOL 350 When Offered: Spring semester only, in alternate years grade of C- or higher. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: No First-year, Sophomore Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning and The Process of Writing Core Component: None
Opportunity for research-based individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty. This course does not count towards the upper-level course requirement for the physics or Astronomy-physics majors or for honors. Credits: variable Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: Only Junior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
This is a required senior research experience. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, each student works on an experimental or theoretical project that ideally produces original results. A final thesis and a formal oral presentation are essential components of the course. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: Only Senior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning and The Process of Writing Core Component: None
A detailed study, using vector calculus, of important problems in the mechanics of particles and extended bodies including a derivation of Lagrange's and Hamilton's equations, and other advanced topics. When Offered: Fall semester only
Maxwell's equations are developed through a progression from electrostatics to magnetostatics to electrodynamics, including electromagnetic waves. Additional topics may include the interaction of fields with matter, radiation by accelerated charges, and relativistic transforms of fields. When Offered: Spring semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
PHYS 205 and PHYS 233 with a grade of C- or higher.
Corequisite
None
PHYS 433Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics1.00
An introduction to the physical concepts underlying the formalism of thermal physics. Emphasis is on the role and meaning of entropy in physical systems and processes. Topics include black body radiation, engines and refrigerators, free energy, batteries, thermal conductivity and phase transitions. When Offered: Fall semester only Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
An introduction to the theory and formalism of quantum mechanics, including the bra-ket notation. Develops the linear algebraic formulation using spins, photon and atoms; and covers topics that include time evolution, angular momentum, the harmonic oscillator, the Schrodinger equation, entanglement, and quantum information. A series of laboratories gives students vivid examples of quantum mechanical principles. When Offered: Spring semester only
A laboratory experience on the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and state manipulation using a correlated-photon laboratory platform. Experiments include quantum eraser, delayed choice, and quantum entanglement. Required corequisite to PHYS 434. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
An introduction to the techniques and concepts used to analyze real-time dynamic models that involve nonlinear terms. Applications are highly emphasized and include interdisciplinary topics such as biological population dynamics, mechanical systems, oscillating chemical reactions, electrical circuits and synchronization. This course is team-taught by members of the physics and mathematics departments. Crosslisted: MATH 448 When Offered: Spring semester only, in alternate years Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Recommended: Students should enroll through the department for which they intend to use the credit Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None Formerly: PHYS 458
Investigates general algorithms and their implementation for the exploration of problems in classical and quantum mechanics. Applications range widely from solar system dynamics and chaotic systems to particles in general quantum potentials. Fourier analysis, including the fast Fourier transform, and its application to the understanding of physical systems and data analysis, are also studied. Each student undertakes a major numerical project of his or her choice.
Required corequisite to PHYS 451. Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
Several important properties of matter in its solid form are examined. The ordered, crystalline nature of most solids is used as a starting point for understanding condensed material and as a basis for introducing the band theory of solids. The course investigates thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties of metals, semiconductors, and insulators. When Offered: Fall semester only, in alternate years Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: Quantitative and Algorithmic Reasoning Core Component: None
At the beginning of the 20th century, Einstein's discovery of the Special and General Theories of Relativity revolutionized understanding of space and time. This course studies both theories; the emphasis is on General Relativity, including cosmology and the study of black holes. When Offered: Spring semester only, in alternate years
Opportunity for individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a faculty member, and following a course-like format. The content and syllabus must be approved in advance by the department chair. Credits: variable Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: None Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
Opportunity for research-based individual study in areas not covered by formal course offerings, under the guidance of a member of the faculty. This course does not count towards the upper-level course requirement for the physics or Astronomy-physics majors or for honors. Credits: variable Major/Minor Restrictions: None Class Restriction: Only Senior Area of Inquiry: Natural Sciences & Mathematics Liberal Arts Practices: None Core Component: None
