Elements of Physics 111

Our understanding of the universe, whether at the largest scale of the most distant galaxies or the smallest  of the elementary particles, is based on physics.  In this course we look at its elements, including ideas of space and time, forces such as gravity and electromagnetism, the character of light, the meaning of quantum mechanics, and the profound ideas of Einstein's theories of relativity.  Some mathematics is required but using only algebra, a calculator, and imagination.  It  is a course for anyone 

Physics I 221

This is the first of a two-semester sequence on the fundamental concepts and methods of physics. Physics is the foundation of the sciences that enable us to understand the universe on the largest and smallest scales, from the beginning of time to its uncertain future.  It is also the practical basis of contemporary technology, engineering, medicine, and biology.  This semester we explore how physics works, learn the necessary math concepts to use it and study mechanics and gravity, heat and energy, and vibrations and sound.

Physics II 222

This is the second of a two-semester sequence on the fundamental concepts and methods of physics. Physics is the foundation of the sciences that enable us to understand the universe on the largest and smallest scales, from the beginning of time to its uncertain future.  It is also the practical basis of contemporary technology, engineering, medicine, and biology.  Many of these applications depend on electricity, magnetism, light and even quantum mechanics.  This semester we explore the basic physics of electricity and magnetism, electronics and electrical devices, the nature of light, its production and control, the elements of quantum phenomena, and contemporary ideas about relativity, gravitation, and the universe.


Physics I Lab 223


This lab class is the first of a two-semester sequence on the fundamental concepts and methods of physics. It explores the physics of mechanics, heat, and sound  through laboratory experiments, simulations, and analysis of real data.


Physics II Lab 224

This lab class is the second of a two-semester sequence on the fundamental concepts and methods of physics. It explores the physics of electricity, magnetism, light, quantum mechanics and relativity through laboratory experiments, simulations, and analysis of real data.