Physics
PHYS 230 - Physical Reasoning
A focus on the elements of sound physical reasoning as expressed through clear scientific writing. Students write detailed solutions to challenging problems, summaries of research articles, and reviews of important topics of physics.
PHYS 330 - Analytic Mechanics
Solve problems applying Newton and conservation laws and Lagrange’s equations. Topics include central force inertial reference frames, rotational motion of rigid bodies, and coupled oscillators.
PHYS 340 - Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics
Explore connections between macroscopic properties of light and matter and microscopic characteristics of their constituent particles. Topics include energy, temperature, heat, entropy, chemical equilibrium, and phase transitions.
PHYS 350 - Quantum Mechanics I
Explores relationships between quantum measurements and the postulates of quantum mechanics. Apply Schrodinger’s equation and the Heisenberg uncertainty relation to problems.
PHYS 450 - Electromagnetism I
A focus on electrostatics and magnetostatics, with an emphasis on the properties and sources of vector fields both in vacuum and in the presence of matter.
PHYS 460 - Astrophysics
Studies the behavior of astronomical objects, the study of their origin, evolution, and composition, and fate of the Universe as a whole. Topics include main-sequence stars, collapsed stars, supernovae, galaxies, and cosmology.