100

PHYS 101 Contemporary Physics for Non-Science Majors

(Designed for students majoring in humanities and social sciences.) Non-mathematical survey of selected areas of contemporary science. Emphasis on ideas and concepts of physics, including its role in society.

3

PHYS 104 The Big Bang

Non-mathematical presentation of selected topics regarding the latest theories of the formation of the universe including ideas from special and general relativity.

1

PHYS 107 Particles and Waves

Introductory level course on topics of special interest not covered in regular courses.

1-3

PHYS 111 Introduction to Physical Sciences

An inquiry and algebra based approach to the major topics of physics: motion, conservation laws, heat, electricity, optics, and introductory atomic physics.

3

PHYS 117 Sound, Light and Color

A course for the non-major covering topics in acoustics (especially musical acoustics), optics, light, lasers, holograms, and theories of color. The approach is mostly conceptual with some use of simple algebra. Emphasis will be on the physics, but some discussion of perceptual issues concerning the ear, eye, and brain will be included.

3

PHYS 118 Introduction to Astronomy

An introduction to the study of astronomy, from the early historical development of astronomy as a science to our modern understanding of stars, galaxies, and the Universe. The mathematics will be at the level of high school algebra and geometry.

3

PHYS 121 College Physics I

A non-calculus lecture sequence: motion, dynamics, conservation theorems, heat. Students requiring a laboratory component should include PHYS 123. Student must have taken MATH 105 or N.Y.S. Regents Math B.

3

PHYS 122 College Physics II

A non-calculus lecture sequence: wave motion, sound, electromagnetic fields, circuits, optics, quantum phenomena. Students requiring a laboratory component should include PHYS 124.

3

Prerequisites

PHYS 121

PHYS 123 College Physics Lab I

One three-hour laboratory session per week treating topics covered in PHYS 121.

1

Prerequisites

PHYS 121*

Cross Listed Courses

* Indicates that the course can be taken in the same semester

PHYS 124 College Physics II Lab

One three-hour laboratory session per week treating topics covered in PHYS 122.

1

Prerequisites

PHYS 122*

Cross Listed Courses

* Indicates that the course can be taken in the same semester

PHYS 131 Waves and Light

This course explores both mechanical wave and electromagnetic (light) wave properties and behaviors. Wave motion will be described pictorially, graphically and mathematically in order to investigate the characteristics of the wave. Interactions with light and matter will be studied with a particular focus on basic optics. The material will be covered at a high level under the presumption that students are able to perform basic algebraic and geometry calculations

3

PHYS 152 Observing the Sky

An introductory astronomy course aimed at exploring the historical and modern techniques by which scientists observe objects in the sky. Topics will include the historical development of science, motions in the sky, light and telescopes, and digital imaging. While some classes will be held in the planetarium, no nighttime telescope work will be required. The mathematics will be at the level of high school algebra and geometry.

3

PHYS 199 Special Topics

Introductory level course on topics of special interest not covered in regular courses.

1-3