The field of physics concerns itself with the description of the laws and relationships which govern the physical interaction and behavior of matter and energy. For example, it deals with forces and resultant motion, phenomena of electro-magnetic interaction and radiation, wave motion and heat, and the structure and behavior of physical systems found in the universe, ranging from nuclei and atoms to stars and galaxies. The study of physics enhances our understanding of the orderly structure of God's creation as it pertains to physical systems. It has also resulted in technological advances which have radically changed our world, especially in the last 100 years.
Every Year, Fall 3(3-0-3)
The physics of motion and interactions, primarily in the context of molecules and biological cells. Algebra-based. Topics include kinematics, particle dynamics, work and energy, linear momentum, diffusion, entropy and enthalpy.
Students with credit in PHYS 241 cannot receive credit for PHYS 233.
Prerequisites: Mathematics 30-1, and either Physics 20 or Science 30. (Students who intend to use Science 30 as a prerequisite must consult with and have the consent of the instructor.)
Every Year, Winter 3(3-0-3)
A calculus-based study of the physics of electricity, magnetism, and waves, primarily in the context of molecules and biological cells. Topics include electric and magnetic fields and forces, dipoles, oscillations and electromagnetic waves, optics, spectroscopy, and the quantum mechanical nature of light.
Students with credit in PHYS 243 cannot receive credit for PHYS 235.
Pre-requisite: PHYS 233 or 241, and MATH 200
Subject to demand 3(3-1.5-0)
A first course in electricity and magnetism with emphasis on the electric and magnetic properties of matter, development of the Biot-Savart Law, Ampere's Law and the laws of magnetic induction. Course will introduce Maxwell's equations and conclude with an application of these ideas to physical optics. The rudimentary ideas of vector calculus will be developed in the weekly seminar accompanying this course.
Prerequisites: MATH 205 and PHYS 243; MATH 315 is strongly recommended
Subject to demand 3(3-0-0)
This course is intended for students in their senior year of study and will focus on the dialogue between scientific and other ways of knowing. Topics will be drawn from Physics, Theology and Sociology that will illuminate such motivating questions as 1) How can Science and Theology engage in a conversation of mutual understanding and transformation? 2) How, or in what ways, has science changed our ideas about what it means to be human? and 3) Given these changes, how then ought we to live our lives?
Same as SOCI 395 and THEO 375.
Prerequisites: Six credits in one or more of Physics, Sociology or Theology
Non-Recurring, 3(varies)
A course on a topic or figure of special interest to a member of the physics faculty and offered on a non-recurring basis.
Prerequisites: PHYS 233, 243; some topics may have more specific prerequisites.
Every Year, 1 to 3 (varies)
This course gives an opportunity to do intensive study of some area of physics of particular interest to the student. Students work closely with a member of the physics faculty in tutorials. Students must apply in advance for directed studies to the faculty member involved.
Prerequisite: 6 credits of physics at the 300- or 400-level, and consent of the instructor