17159

PHYS 116

Acoustics

Matthew Deady

T Th 8:30am-9:50am

HEG 102

SCI

This laboratory course gives an introduction to the phenomena of acoustics, particularly aspects that are important in the production and perception of music. The physics of sound is covered in depth, and characteristics of acoustic and electronic instruments are discussed. Mathematical and laboratory techniques are introduced as needed. No specific science or mathematics background beyond algebra is assumed. Class size: 36

LAB OPTIONS: (register separately)

17160

PHYS 116 LBA

Acoustics

Matthew Deady

F 8:30am-9:50am

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17161

PHYS 116 LBB

Acoustics

Matthew Deady

F 10:10am-11:30am

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17162

PHYS 116 LBC

Acoustics

Matthew Deady

F 1:30pm-2:50pm

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17164

PHYS 142 A

Introduction to Physics II

Eleni-Alexandra Kontou

M W F 8:30am-9:50am

HEG 102

SCI

Part II of a calculus-based survey which will focus on electricity and magnetism, light, electromagnetic radiation, and optics. The course stresses ideas - the unifying principles and characteristic models of physics. Labs develop the critical ability to elicit understanding of our physical world. Prerequisites: Physics 141, Mathematics 141. Class size: 18

17165

PHYS 142 B

Introduction to Physics II

Paul Cadden-Zimansky

M W F 10:10am-11:30am

HEG 102

SCI

See above. Class size: 18

LAB OPTIONS: (register separately)

17166

PHYS 142 LBA

Introduction to Physics II

M 1:00pm-3:00pm

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17167

PHYS 142 LBB

Introduction to Physics II

T 1:00pm-3:00pm

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17168

PHYS 142 LBC

Introduction to Physics II

T 3:10pm-5:10pm

HEG 107

SCI

Class size: 12

17163

PHYS 145

Astronomy

Eleni-Alexandra Kontou

M W F 3:10pm-4:30pm

ALBEE 100

SCI

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what you are seeing? Astronomy is one of the oldest of the natural sciences, dating back to prehistoric times. It studies planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole from its earliest time to the present day. This course is an introduction to astronomy including laboratory work where we will perform and interpret observations. Topics include: the solar system, telescopes, history of astronomy, the sun, galaxies, and cosmology. Prerequisite: passing score on Part I of the Mathematics Diagnostic. Class size: 16

17170

PHYS 222

Mathematical Methods II

Harold Haggard

M W F 10:10am-11:30am

HEG 106

MATC

This is the second part of a two-part course series that introduces mathematical topics and techniques that are commonly encountered in the physical sciences, including complex numbers and analytic functions, Fourier series and orthogonal functions, standard types of partial differential equations, and special functions. Prerequisites: MATH 141 and 142, or the equivalent. Recommended: PHYS 221, Mathematical Methods I. Class size: 16

17169

PHYS 230

Optics

Harold Haggard

Paul Cadden-Zimansky

T 1:30pm – 2:50pm

(LAB) Th 3:10pm-6:00pm

HEG 300

HEG 106

From observing the cosmos to single cells, understanding optics is what has allowed us to visualize the unseen world. This laboratory course provides an overview of the theoretical techniques and experimental tools used to analyze light and its properties. The course will encompass three broad approaches to understanding the behavior of light, geometrical optics, wave optics, and quantum optics. Through the manipulation of light using lenses, polarizers, and single-photon detectors, students will learn the physics that underlies microscopes, spectrometers, lasers, modern telecommunication, and human vision. Pre-requisite, Physics 142 or permission of the instructor. Class size: 16

17171

PHYS 303

Mechanics

Matthew Deady

M W 8:30am-9:50am

Th 1:30pm-2:50pm

HEG 106

HEG 107

Particle kinematics and dynamics in one, two, and three dimensions. Conservation laws, coordinate transformations, and problem‑solving techniques in differential equations, vector calculus, and linear algebra. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation of dynamics. Prerequisites: Physics 141‑142, Mathematics 141‑142. Class size: 16

17172

PHYS 321

Quantum Mechanics

Joshua Cooperman

M W F 1:30pm-2:50pm

HEG 106

MATC

Quantum mechanics is our most successful scientific theory: spectacularly tested, technologically paramount, conceptually revolutionary. This course will provide a comprehensive introduction to this remarkable theory. We will begin by establishing the structure of quantum mechanics in the context of its simplest case, the so-called qubit. Simultaneously, we will refresh the mathematical apparatus required to formulate quantum mechanics. To explore some of quantum mechanic’s most interesting phenomena, including contextuality, entanglement, and nonlocality, we will next study systems of qubits. After an interlude on the interpretation of quantum mechanics, we will consider a variety of applications of quantum mechanics: 1-dimensional systems, including the harmonic oscillator, 3-dimensional systems, including the hydrogen atom, and quantum statistical mechanics, including that of identical particles as well as scattering and perturbation theory. We will conclude by learning the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics. Time permitting, we will touch on such topics as decoherence and quantum computation. Prerequisites: Physics 241, Mathematics 213. Class size: 16