Physics

Advanced Placement: A score of 4 or 5 on the AP Physics 1, 2, or C exam earns college credit and counts toward the natural science common area requirement. Students with AP score of 4 or 5 in Physics 2 or Physics C may receive credit toward the minimum number of courses required for the Physics major or the Physics minor, or advanced standing in the physics curriculum.

Majors: Students interested in Physics should enroll in PHYS 115. This is a calculus-based course suitable for students who will major in physics, chemistry, or biology, as well as for those interested in the Health Professions (premedical, predental, etc.), 3-2 Engineering, or ROTC. No prior knowledge of physics is assumed, however, students must enroll in or have credit for Calculus 1 or the equivalent.

Advisory Note: Because mathematics plays an important role in Physics, majors are required to take Calculus 1, Calculus 2, and Multivariable Calculus, or the equivalent. These may be taken over the first three semesters, but completing them during the first year, if possible, does offer some advantage going into the upper-level physics curriculum. Students who have already completed a year of calculus may be able to place out of one semester or more of math and are recommended to do so if appropriate. Please see the guidelines in the Mathematics section.

PHYS 115
Introductory Physics 1: Mechanics, Fluids and Waves
Common Area: Natural Science

What are the underlying rules of the universe? How can we apply these rules to understand the motions of planets, cars, oceans, etc.? These are the guiding questions for this foundational course on Newtonian mechanics and quantitative problem solving. Topics include motion in one and two dimensions, vectors, Newton’s laws of motion, work and energy, linear momentum and collisions, rotational motion, static equilibrium, oscillatory motion, gravitation, fluid mechanics, and mechanical waves. Co- or prerequisite: Calculus 1 or equivalent.

PHYS 146
The Physics of Energe
Common Area: Natural Science

How do we get energy from wind? What is the physics behind global warming? What are the potentials and dangers of nuclear power? This course will give you the scientific understanding of energy sources, transformations, and systems. Students will learn how we tap various sources of energy, how energy is used in our everyday lives, and the consequences of our growing demand for energy.


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