Physics

Faculty: Associate Professor Hyland (coordinator)

Physics develops an understanding of physical phenomena through study of classical and modern theory in conjunction with  laboratory experience. It fosters intellectual curiosity and is important in the natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, law, and  health fields.

Courses

CHE/PHY 102: Fundamentals of Physical Sciences

Credits 3
An overview of the physical sciences needed for college courses in chemistry and physics. Topics include the scientific method, measurements, momentum, matter and energy, electricity and magnetism, waves, the atom, chemical bonds, stoichiometry, solution chemistry, chemical and nuclear reactions, and basic mathematics. The course includes experimental activities outside of class. This course does not meet the requirement for the science core curriculum.

PHY/CHE 102: Fundamentals of Physical Sciences

Credits 3
An overview of the physical sciences needed for college courses in chemistry and physics. Topics include the scientific method, measurements, momentum, matter and energy, electricity and magnetism, waves, the atom, chemical bonds, stoichiometry, solution chemistry, chemical and nuclear reactions, and basic mathematics. The course includes experimental activities outside of class. This course does not meet the requirement for the science core curriculum.

PHY 101: Introductory Physics

Credits 4
Fundamentals and applications of conceptual physics. Descriptive explanation of mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism, light, and atomic and nuclear physics. Topics ary based on students’ direction. The lab portion covers basic experimental techniques and physical examples of topics covered in the course. Not open to students with credit in PHY 205 or PHY 206.

PHY 205: General Physics 1 with lab

Credits 4
A combined lecture and lab course (workshop) that combines lecture, problem solving, and lab activities. The course covers topics in laws and concepts of mechanics, wave motion, acoustics, and thermodynamics. It emphasizes a connection between microscopic and macroscopic phenomena, conservation laws, and development of problem-solving ability. Lab portions emphasize modeling, animations, data collection, and graphical representation of data.

PHY 206: General Physics 2 with Lab

Credits 4
A combined lecture and lab course that combines lecture, problem solving, and lab activities. The course covers topics in electricity, magnetism, and optics. It emphasizes a connection between microscopic and macroscopic phenomena, conservation laws, and development of problem-solving ability. Lab portions emphasize modeling, animations, data collection, and graphical representation of data.