Courses taught once every academic year
Please note that the syllabi are usually from previous course offerings and may not necessarily reflect the structure or policies of future courses.
50:750:131 Elements of Physics I (R) (3) syllabus
Corequisites: 50:640:121 Calculus 1 -AND- 50:750:133 Lab 1. Offered every Fall and Summer.
Intended for physics majors and engineering students, but open to other qualified students. A calculus-based introduction to classical physics: mechanics, heat, wave motion, sound, electricity, and light.
50:750:132 Elements of Physics II (R) (3) syllabus
Corequisites: 50:640:122 Calculus 2 -AND- 50:750:134 Lab 2. Offered every Spring and Summer.
Intended for physics majors and engineering students, but open to other qualified students. A calculus-based introduction to classical physics: mechanics, heat, wave motion, sound, electricity, and light.
50:750:133 Introductory Physics Laboratory I (R) (1) syllabus
Corequisites: 50:750:131 -OR- 50:750:203. Offered every Fall and Summer.
The laboratory illustrates phenomena and concepts studied in 50:750:131 -OR- 50:750:203.
50:750:134 Introductory Physics Laboratory II (R) (1) syllabus
Corequisites: 50:750:132 -OR- 50:750:204. Offered every Spring and Summer.
The laboratory illustrates phenomena and concepts studied in 50:750:132 -OR- 50:750:204.
50:750:140 Introduction to Scientific Programming (R) (3)
Offered every Spring. Students will gain an introduction to scientific programming and numerical methods utilizing a scripting environment such as MATLAB. Particular emphasis will be placed on solving relevant problems in biology, physics, and engineering. No prior exposure to computer programming will be assumed.
50:750:203 General Physics I (R) (3) syllabus
Prerequisite: 50:640:115 Pre-Calculus; Corequisites: 50:750:133 Lab 1; Offered every Fall and Summer.
For biology, chemistry, premedicine, predentistry, and preveterinary medicine students, but may be taken by others. An introduction to mechanics, heat, wave motion, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and selected topics from modern physics.
50:750:204 General Physics II (R) (3) syllabus
Prerequisite: 50:640:115 Pre-Calculus; Corequisites: 50:750:134 Lab 2; Offered every Spring and Summer.
For biology, chemistry, premedicine, predentistry, and preveterinary medicine students, but may be taken by others. An introduction to mechanics, heat, wave motion, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and selected topics from modern physics.
50:750:232 Elements of Modern Physics (3) syllabus
Prerequisite: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2; Corequisite: 50:640:221 Calculus 3 -AND- 50:750:238 the Lab; Offered every Fall.
Topics from special relativity, quantum theory, atomic physics, molecules, statistical physics, solid-state physics, nuclear physics and elementary particles.
50:750:238 Modern Physics Laboratory (1) syllabus
Corequisite: 50:750:232 Modern Physics. Offered every Fall.
Students will perform experiments of great historical significance that helped to reshape our understanding of Physics during the late 19th and early 20th century. Examples include the Millikan Oil-Drop and Frank-Hertz experiments.
50:750:233 Electric Circuits I (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:640:121 Calculus 1; Corequisites: 50:750:235 the Lab; Offered every Fall.
DC and steady-state AC circuit analysis, network theorems, matrix methods, two ports, controlled sources, nonlinear elements, transients, step and impulse response, and computer methods. Equivalent to Principles of Electrical Engineering I (14:332:221).
50:750:235 Electric Circuits Laboratory I (1)
Corequisites: 50:750:233. Offered every Fall.
Laboratory exercises to accompany and illustrate 50:750:233. Equivalent to Principles of Electrical Engineering I Laboratory (14:332:223).
50:750:253 Mechanics I (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:640:122 Calculus 2 -AND- Elements of Physics 1. Offered every Spring.
Equilibrium of planar and spatial systems, analysis of structures, friction, centroids and moments of inertia, virtual work, dynamics of particles, and rigid bodies. Equivalent to Engineering Mechanics: Statics (14:440:221).
50:750:322 3D Printing (3) syllabus (fulfills the Gen Ed PLS requirement)
No Prerequisites; Offered every other Spring.
This course will provide students with a working knowledge and understanding of 3D printing. Several aspects of the revolutionary technology will be examined spanning a wide spectrum of topics including: additive manufacturing, Computer Aided Design software, phase changes in thermoplastics, social impact of the technology. In addition to exposing students to the underlying science of the technology, students will gain experience in both designing items suitable for printing and seeing through to its successful fabrication.
50:750:489 Independent Studies
Prerequisites: Senior status and permission of instructor.
50:750:490 Independent Studies
Prerequisites: Senior status and permission of instructor.
50:750:491 Research in Physics I (3) (W) syllabus (fulfills the Gen Ed XPL or PLS requirements)
In consultation with a faculty advisor, students will develop and carry out an independent research project. The students will be required to present a seminar to the department and to produce a written paper that is suitable for publication in an undergraduate research journal. Students will also be strongly encouraged to present a poster at an undergraduate research conference or the equivalent. Open to Physics students in their junior or senior year. Meets the general education “writing intensive” requirement.
50:750:492 Research in Physics II (3) (W) syllabus (fulfills the Gen Ed XPL or PLS requirements)
In consultation with a faculty advisor, students will develop and carry out an independent research project. The students will be required to present a seminar to the department and to produce a written paper that is suitable for publication in an undergraduate research journal. Students will also be strongly encouraged to present a poster at an undergraduate research conference or the equivalent. Open to Physics students in their junior or senior year. Meets the general education “writing intensive” requirement.
Courses taught every other academic year
50:750:301 Electromagnetic Theory (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations. Offered every other Fall.
Electrostatic field, dielectrics, steady currents, magnetic fields and materials, and electromagnetic induction.
50:750:302 Electromagnetic Waves and Optics (3) syllabus
Prerequisite: 50:750:301 the Theory. Offered every other Spring.
Maxwell’s equations, electromagnetic waves, radiation, guided waves, dispersion, reflection, refraction, interference, polarization, and optics of solids.
50:750:307 Electronics (3) syllabus (superseded by 50:750:361)
Prerequisite: 50:750:204 -OR- 50:750:132 -OR- permission of instructor. Offered every other Fall.
This course is designed to give a hands-on introduction to electronics for all interested students. Topic covered include AC and DC circuit analysis, signal characteristics and acquisition, transistors, feedback, operational amplifiers, power supplies, noise, digital circuits, instrumentation, computer interfacing, and optimization of measurements. Emphasis will be placed upon the development of practical knowledge and skills. One lab and one course meeting per week.
50:750:309 Analytical Mechanics I (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2 -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations. Offered every other Fall.
Particle dynamics, simple harmonic motion, central forces, statics and dynamics of rigid bodies, waves, and Lagrange’s and Hamilton’s equations.
50:750:310 Analytical Mechanics II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2 -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations. Offered every other Spring.
Continuation of 50:750:309. Particle dynamics, simple harmonic motion, central forces, statics and dynamics of rigid bodies, waves, and Lagrange’s and Hamilton’s equations.
50:750:321 Physics of Music (3)
No Prerequisites; Offered every other Fall.
This course is designed to explore the physics behind music in a manner accessible to students from all backgrounds. It will cover the fundamentals of the production, propogation, and reception of sound. Topics covered will include: waveforms, modulation, intensity and the decibel scale, wave packets, beats, reflection, refraction, interference, the Doppler shift, simple harmonic oscillator, work, energy, resonance. It will cover the production of sound by strings, percussions, blown pipes, and blown reeds. Finally, the fundamentals of room acoustics will be investigated.
50:750:351 Thermal Physics I (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2 -AND- 50:640:221 Calculus 3. Offered every other Fall.
Temperature-dependent properties of gases, liquids, and solids, such as specific heat, vapor pressure, dielectric constant, internal energy, entropy, compressibility, and conductivity. Presents classical thermodynamics, which derives relations between various quantities, and statistical methods used to derive classical thermodynamics from the atomic point of view. Presents Brownian motion, random walks, and fluctuation. Gives applications of the second law to the production and uses of energy.
50:750:361 Introduction to Mechatronics (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2 -AND- Introduction to Scientific Programming. Offered every other Fall.
Corequisite: 50:750:364 Intro to Mechatronics Lab.
Fundamental tools for analysis, design, implementation, and integration of functional elements of modern mechatronic systems, including: analog and digital circuits, sensors, actuators, data acquisition systems, microprocessors, system modeling and signal processing, introduction to control design.
50:750:364 Introduction to Mechatronics Lab (3)
Corequisite: 50:750:361 Intro to Mechatronics. Offered every other Fall.
Laboratory exercises to accompany and illustrate 50:750:361.
50:750:362 Biophysics (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2; Often cross-listed with 56:121:565. Offered every other Spring.
An introductory biophysics course for undergraduate or graduate students with at least two semesters of undergraduate physics, intended for students trained in either the physical or life sciences. Themes will include both novel physical insights gained from study of biological systems as well as the power of physical descriptions for advancing biological understanding. The course will explore random and diffusive phenomena in cellular processes, the effect of frictional forces on molecular motion in the low Reynolds number environment of the cell, and the role of entropy and free energy in driving reactions and assembly. Students will learn the importance of elastic descriptions for understanding the biological function of fibrous proteins, membranes, and DNA. Fundamental properties of cellular circuits, including ion channels and nerve impulses, will be presented.
50:750:374 Energy and Environment (3) syllabus (fulfills the Gen Ed PLS requirement)
No Prerequisites.
The physics, economics, and polluting properties of the three conventional power sources: coal, oil, and natural gas (including gasification of coal and oil shale). Studies solar power and discusses conservation of energy in home and industry. Considers the more important advantages and shortcomings and the environmental impacts of aspects of wind, tidal, geothermal, and magneto-hydrodynamic power; the hydrogen economy; and nuclear power, including fusion. Where appropriate, considers the possible use of these in transportation systems. Gives causes of energy crises and proposes various suggestions for a national energy policy.
50:750:406 Condensed Matter and Material Physics (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations. Offered every other Spring.
This course is an introductory approach to condensed matter and materials physics. The fundamentals of electronic theory will be introduced and utilized to relate the optical, electrical and magnetic properties of materials. Topics will include, but not be limited to, semiconductor band structure, atomic binding energies, crystalline structures and ferroic-type ordering. Additionally, select topics from soft condensed matter physics such as the physics of polymers and electro-optical properties of liquid crystals will be covered.
50:750:413 Elements of Quantum Mechanics I (3) syllabus
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations. Offered every other Fall.
Probability waves, Schrodinger and Klein-Gordon equations, eigenvalues, eigenfunctions, wave packets, unitary and hermitian operators, matrix elements, commutation relations, perturbation theory, radiative transitions, and scattering theory.
50:750:420 Methods of Material Characterization (3) syllabus
Lec. 1 hr., lab. 3 hrs. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Offered every other Spring.
The fundamentals of materials characterization will be introduced including optical, surface, and structural techniques. Methods will include Uv-Vis, Infrared, and Raman spectroscopy, atomic force, optical and electronic microscopies, X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence measurements.
50:750:430 Optical Microscopy (3) syllabus
No Prerequisites; Offered every other Spring.
Optical microscopy is an invaluable tool in a broad range of scientific research ranging from geology to pharmacology, however, its foundations are planted in physics. This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive survey of optical microscopy techniques through a series of lectures and hands-on demonstrations. Students will begin by learning the fundamentals of optical image formation and microscope design, and this foundation will be built upon with particulars that characterize specific techniques. Optical microscopy techniques that will be covered include brightfield, darkfield, and phase-contrast microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, multiphoton laser scanning microscopy, as well as super-resolution techniques.
50:750:463 Mathematical Physics I (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations; Often cross-listed with 56:121:563 Mathematical Methods; Offered every other Spring.
Mathematical techniques used in advanced work in the physical sciences. Covers determinants, matrices, ordinary and partial differential equations, boundary and eigenvalue problems. Fourier-series and integrals, transform theory, orthogonal functions, complex variables. Extensive problem work.
Courses taught only with sufficient interest from students and faculty
50:750:103 Is the Universe Elegant? (R) (3)
No prerequisite. Designed for nonscience majors.
This course is designed to explore the frontier areas of Physics (particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology) in a manner accessible to students from all backgrounds and stresses the development of conceptual understanding before computational literacy. Limitations of scientific knowledge and the insufficiency of science to answer questions of origin and value will be discussed as well.
50:750:171 Topics in Physics I (2)
The subject matter changes depending on the interests of the instructor and the students. Sample topics: the energy crisis and sources of energy or the physics of the atmosphere and weather forecasting.
50:750:172 Topics in Physics II (2)
The subject matter changes depending on the interests of the instructor and the students. Sample topics: the energy crisis and sources of energy or the physics of the atmosphere and weather forecasting.
50:750:223 Conceptual Physics for the Health Sciences (4)
Prerequisite: 50:640:115 Pre-Calculus.
Designed specifically for Health Sciences majors. A one semester introductory physics course that covers Newtonian mechanics, waves, electromagnetism, optics, and selected topics from modern physics. Includes one laboratory session per week.
50:750:234 Electric Circuits II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:640:122 Calculus 2; Corequisites: 50:750:236 the Lab.
DC and steady-state AC circuit analysis, network theorems, matrix methods, two ports, controlled sources, nonlinear elements, transients, step and impulse response, and computer methods. Equivalent to Principles of Electrical Engineering II (14:332:222).
50:750:236 Electric Circuits Laboratory II (1)
Corequisites: 50:750:234.
Laboratory exercises to accompany and illustrate 50:750:234. Equivalent to Principles of Electrical Engineering II Laboratory (14:332:224).
50:750:254 Mechanics II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:131 Elements of Physics 1 -AND- 50:640:122 Calculus 2.
Equilibrium of planar and spatial systems, analysis of structures, friction, centroids and moments of inertia, virtual work, dynamics of particles, and rigid bodies. Equivalent to Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics (14:440:222).
50:750:291 Mechanics of Materials (3)
Prerequisite: 50:750:253 Mechanics 1.
Stress and strain in elastic solids such as shafts and beams. Combined stresses; statically indeterminate beams. Equivalent to Mechanics of Solids (14:650:291).
50:750:304 Introduction to Astrophysics (3)
Prerequisites: 50:640:122 Calculus 2 -AND- 50:100:306 Descriptive Astronomy.
Presents, at a calculus-based level, a survey of such topics from current astronomy as planetary atmospheres, the greenhouse effect, solar wind and its interaction with the earth’s magnetic field, Van Allen radiation belts, some aspects of cosmology (the red shift, models of the evolving universe, tests of relativistic cosmological models), the interstellar medium, and an introduction to the theory of stellar atmospheres and stellar evolution. The present theories of pulsars, quasars, supernovae, neutron stars, Seyfert galaxies, and black holes analyzed.
50:750:352 Thermal Physics II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:132 Elements of Physics 2 -AND- 50:640:221 Calculus 3.
Temperature-dependent properties of gases, liquids, and solids, such as specific heat, vapor pressure, dielectric constant, internal energy, entropy, compressibility, and conductivity. Presents classical thermodynamics, which derives relations between various quantities, and statistical methods used to derive classical thermodynamics from the atomic point of view. Presents Brownian motion, random walks, and fluctuation. Gives applications of the second law to the production and uses of energy.
50:750:354 Physics Computer Laboratory (3)
Prerequisites: 50:640:314 Differential Equations -AND- 50:750:232 Modern Physics.
Use of the computer to solve problems in many areas of physics, including numerical integration of Newton’s Laws and Gauss’s Law, electric circuit analysis and mechanics.
50:750:408 Advanced Physics Laboratory (2)
Lab. 6 hrs. Prerequisite: 50:750:232 Modern Physics.
Students develop good experimental technique and become familiar with the capabilities and limitations of modern laboratory equipment. Experiments performed in all fields of physics including electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics.
50:750:409 Advanced Physics Laboratory (2)
Lab. 6 hrs. Prerequisite: 50:750:232 Modern Physics.
Students develop good experimental technique and become familiar with the capabilities and limitations of modern laboratory equipment. Experiments performed in all fields of physics including electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics.
50:750:414 Elements of Quantum Mechanics II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations.
Continuation of 50:750:413. Probability waves, Schrodinger and Klein-Gordon equations, eigenvalues, eigenfunctions, wave packets, unitary and hermitian operators, matrix elements, commutation relations, perturbation theory, radiative transitions, and scattering theory.
50:750:417 Computational Physics I (3)
Prerequisite: 50:750:232 Modern Physics.
Applications of the computer to the solution of large-scale problems in physics including the numerical solution of the differential equations of electromagnetic theory, integration of the Schrodinger for realistic problems, and applications of matrix methods to problems in mechanics and engineering.
50:750:418 Computational Physics II (3)
Prerequisite: 50:750:354 Computer Lab.
Continuation of 50:750:417. Emphasis placed on the application of computer simulation techniques, including the Monte Carlo method, to problems in statistical physics (especially the subject of phase transitions) and other areas of interest.
50:750:453 Physics Seminar (2)
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Members of seminar prepare and present papers on topics of interest in physics.
50:750:464 Mathematical Physics II (3)
Prerequisites: 50:750:232 Modern Physics -AND- 50:640:314 Differential Equations.
Mathematical techniques used in advanced work in the physical sciences. Covers determinants, matrices, ordinary and partial differential equations, boundary and eigenvalue problems. Fourier-series and integrals, transform theory, orthogonal functions, complex variables. Extensive problem work.
50:750:495 Honors Program in Physics (3)
50:750:496 Honors Program in Physics (3)
*Course syllabi not listed are available upon request