Department of Physics and Astronomy
Dr. Michael Carini, Department Chair
Kelly Thompson Hall, Office 2009
Phone: 270-745-4357; Fax: 270-745-2014
Email: info@physics.wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/physics
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a Bachelor’s of Science in Physics, with degree pathways tailorable to meet student career goals.
We have pathways designed for students who chose to pursue careers as physicists in government or industrial laboratories, for careers in engineering and other professional fields, for teaching in public schools, or, for entering advanced programs at the graduate level in Physics, Astronomy or related disciplines (e.g. Medical Physics). Our world renown faculty and state of the art research facilities allow us to provide opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research experiences where they apply their classroom knowledge to real world problems.
Physics laboratories and classrooms are located on the second floor of Kelly Thompson Hall (KTH), the basement and first floor of Ogden College Hall (OCH) and the Applied Physics Institute (API, located at the Center for Research and Development). The Hardin Planetarium, located next door to KTH, supports astronomy laboratories and demonstrations for classes, regular focused presentations of astronomy and the physical universe for school groups and the general public. The observatory on top of KTH provides students with convenient access to the department’s 12.5 inch Cassegrain reflector and several smaller telescopes and also provides monthly opportunities for public viewing. Faculty make use of the latest research-based physics teaching pedagogies in all our undergraduate classes. Our physics teaching laboratories are equipped with modern laboratory equipment and data acquisition interfaces using software that is standard in the physics and engineering community.
Modern laboratory facilities and equipment, rivaling those found at more research focused institutions, allow us to provide student centered research experiences for all Physics majors. The diversity of research engagement possibilities is a major strength of our undergraduate program, allowing students to benefit from a breath of available interest and specializations. Undergraduate students are strongly encouraged to participate in research opportunities with faculty members. Individual student research projects may start as early as the sophomore year, supported in most cases by available assistantships and/or formal course credit. The API houses an X-ray diffractometer, neutron generator, Auger spectrometer, Beowulf Computer Cluster, and a Large Chamber Scanning Electron Microscope. The materials science lab houses a micro-Raman spectrometer and a thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition reactor for nano-carbons and other nanomaterials. The laser lab houses a nanosecond IR laser, excimer laser, spectrophotometer, gas chromatography, and ultrahigh vacuum chamber. The department also operates two research grade astronomical telescopes: the local 0.7m Bell Observatory located 12 miles southwest of WKU and the 1.3 meter Robotically Controlled Telescope (RCT) located outside Tuscon, AZ. Both facilities are available for, and in case of Bell Observatory, operated by undergraduate students. Descriptions of current research studies by faculty members and specific research opportunities available to undergraduate students are available on the department’s website.
The department sponsors a local chapter of the nationally affiliated Society of Physics Students (SPS) for students interested in physics, as well as a section of the Sigma Pi Sigma honor society. The local SPS chapter sponsors or participates in a variety of social and service activities related to physics, including field trips, trips to scientific meetings, tutoring, and interacting with students from area schools.
The Hilltopper Astronomy Club provides support for students interested in astronomy both as a hobby and science. Regular observing sessions, informal meetings, and various projects are some of the benefits available to members.
Our Women in Physics (WiP) organization provides support for women majoring in Physics. Club members participate in a variety of social and professional activities throughout the academic year, including sponsoring a trip to the annual Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics (CUWiP).
When planning a program of study in physics, each student should be aware of the University's academic requirements and regulations contained in this catalog in the chapter, “Academic Information.” Specific attention should be given to the sub-sections in the chapter entitled (a) Academic Programs, (b) Colonnade Requirements, and (c) Academic Requirements and Regulations. All students, from freshman to seniors, are required to meet with their department academic advisor (Dr. Doug Harper for freshman and sophomore level students; juniors and seniors are assigned a department advisor after completion of PHYSICS 321) each semester in order to plan their schedule for the following semester and/or to discuss and plan their career options.
Faculty
Professor
David N. Brown PhD (Physics), Purdue University Main Campus, 1992
Michael T. Carini PhD (Astrophysics), Georgia State University, 1990
Vladimir Dobrokhotov PhD (Physics), University of Idaho, 2006
A. G. Emslie PhD (Astronomy), University of Glasgow, 1979
Douglas L. Harper PhD (Physics), Vanderbilt University, 1991
Charles H. McGruder PhD, University of Heidelberg, 1974
Associate Professor
Scott W. Bonham PhD (Physics), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champa, 1997
Ali Er PhD (Physics), Old Dominion University, 2011
Steven J. Gibson PhD (Astronomy, Physics), University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1997
Ivan S. Novikov PhD (Mathematics, Physics), St. Petersburg State U-Russia, 2000
Assistant Professor
Jasminka Terzic PhD (Physics), University of Kentucky, 2016
Instructor I
Kenny D. Lee MS (Science Education), University of Kentucky, 1994
Instructor II
Jason R. Boyles PhD (Physics), West Virginia University, 2011
Ting-Hui Lee PhD (Physics and Astronomy), University of Calgary-Canada, 2004
Astronomy (ASTR)
ASTR 104 Astronomy of the Solar System 3 Hours
An introductory study of that portion of the physical universe extending beyond the earth from the sun to the outer limits of the solar system, including its relationship to the rest of the universe and to the earth. Topics include phenomena visible from earth, the earth's motions and timekeeping, eclipses, motions of planets and satellites, and the historical development of scientific understanding of the solar system. Comparison of physical properties among the sun, planets, and satellites interrelate the earth and its life forms with the extraterrestrial environment that supported the development and continuation of life on earth. This course contains an integral laboratory that includes planetarium exercises and evening observing sessions using telescopes. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | SL, NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
ASTR 106 Astronomy of Stellar Systems 3 Hours
An introductory study of that portion of the physical universe in the space beyond the bounds of the solar system. Topics include the physical properties of stars and stellar systems, stellar formation and evolution, supernovas, pulsars, galaxies, quasars, black-holes, and cosmology-scientific theories of the origin, evolution, and fate of the universe on the grandest scale. Emphasis is given to the significance of these topics to the development and fate of the earth and its star. This course contains an integrated laboratory that includes planetarium exercises and evening observing sessions using telescopes. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS, E-SL | SL, NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
ASTR 108 Descriptive Astronomy 3 Hours
Introductory survey of our universe; from observations of the sun, moon and stars in the sky to our understanding of planets, stars, galaxies and the overall characteristics of the cosmos. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
ASTR 214 General Astronomy 4 Hours
An introduction to astronomy for science majors. Topics include distances, masses, and luminosities of stars, stellar atmospheres and structure, stellar evolution, star systems, interstellar matter, galaxies, cosmology, the sun, and the solar system. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code NS, SL
Prerequisite(s): MATH 136 (may be taken concurrently)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
ASTR 275 Astronomy Research Methods 3 Hours
Intensive project-based course to familiarize students with the fundamentals of astronomy using scientific research investigations as examples. Objectives include familiarization with astronomical instrumentation for imaging and spectroscopy of celestial objects, digital image reduction and analysis, and interpretation of results. Additional topics of discussion will include the process and nature of scientific research and professional ethics. Examples wil be drawn from popular astronomical investigations in modern astronomy. This course does not count towards a major or minor in physics or astronomy. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 117
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
ASTR 298 Research Experiences 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)
Individual or group research project carried out under the direct supervision of faculty. An oral presentation or paper (reviewed by a faculty committee) is required. Note: Permission of instructor required.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 117 and (ASTR 106 or ASTR 214 or ASTR 275)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023
ASTR 305 Introduction to Astrobiology 3 Hours
Inter-disciplinary study of life on Earth and possible life beyond Earth. Topics include the environments suitable for life, evolution of life forms, and the search for intelligent extraterrestrial life. Integrates concepts and methods from astronomy, biology, chemistry and geology. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): MATH 116 and (ASTR 106 or BIOL 120 or CHEM 120 or GEOL 111)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
ASTR 314 Observational Astronomy 4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
A study of the techniques of observational astronomy. Topics include imaging techniques, spherical astronomy, magnitude systems, telescope optics, data acquisition, and statistical analysis of astronomical data. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.
Prerequisite(s): ASTR 214 or (PHYS 103 and ASTR 104) or (ASTR 104 and ASTR 106) or (PHYS 103 and ASTR 106)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
Physics (PHYS)
PHYS 100 Energy 3 Hours
A one-semester survey of the concepts of energy applicable to the understanding of energy in our environment. Topics covered are the nature of energy, sources, transmission, consumption, energy and the environment, and prospects for the future. Experiments will be conducted as part of the classroom work. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 101 Concepts of Motion 3 Hours
A one-semester introduction to motion and matter. Topics include the analysis of motion, Newton's Laws of motion, work, energy, the structure and properties of solids, liquids and gases, wave motion and sound. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | NS, SL
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 103 Light, Color and Vision 3 Hours
A descriptive account of the nature and properties of light, color and the process of seeing including descriptions of some important optical instruments, such as the eye, the camera and the telescope. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | SL, NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 105 Concepts of the Physical World 3 Hours
A one-semester introduction to the concepts of physics for students planning to teach in elementary and middle schools. Topics include structure and properties of matter, mechanics, electricity, magnetism, heat, light and sound. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SL, NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 130 Acoustics of Music and Speech 3 Hours
The fundamental laws of mechanics and wave motion are studied with particular emphasis being placed upon their application to the production and control of music and speech. Laboratory experiments and field trips are an integral part of the course. Does not count toward credit for the physics major or minor. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | NS, SL
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 170 Introduction to the Physics Major 1 Hour
This course is the first of a two semester sequences of courses designed to introduce students to what is involved in pursuing a Physics major at WKU and to aid them in their transition to college.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2024
PHYS 171 Exploring the Physics Major 1 Hour
This course is the second of a two semester sequences of courses designed to introduce students to what is involved in pursuing a Physics major at WKU and to help aid them in their transition to college.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 170 with a minimum grade of P
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 180 Introductory Modern Physics 3 Hours
A survey of the physics revolution responsible for laptop computers, fiber optics, and nuclear power. Follows the change in physical theory from the 1870's through the 1920's, from the geometrical optics and thermodynamics through the theories of relativity and the basic ideas behind quantum mechanics. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 117 or MATH 118 or MA 117C or MATH 136 or MATH 137)
Corequisite(s): PHYS 181
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 181 Introductory Modern Physics Laboratory 1 Hour
Laboratory experience focusing on applications of optics, thermodynamics, the structure and behavior of atoms, wavelike properties of particles, and quantization of light, charge and energy. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 117 or MATH 118)
Corequisite(s): PHYS 180
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 201 College Physics I 4 Hours
An introductory course for students majoring in applied sciences, emphasizing the application of basic physics principles through problem solving. Topics covered include mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, properties of matter and waves. Includes both lecture and laboratory components (No calculus is used). Note: High School algebra, geometry and right triangle trigonometry required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | SL, NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 215 Seminar for Physics Learning Assistants 1 Hour
Introduces students to basic theory and practical skills for assisting instructors as learning assistants in active-engagement physics courses. Note: A college level physics course and acceptance to serve as a learning assistant or permission of instructor.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 231 Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I 3 Hours
The first half of a basic course for students of the life sciences, covering the topics of mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, properties of matter, waves and sound. Emphasis is on an understanding of the physical principles operative in biological systems and on the application of physical methods in biology and medicine. Note: High School algebra, geometry and right triangle trigonometry required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Corequisite(s): PHYS 232
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 232 Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I 1 Hour
Students perform physics experiments on mechanics, fluids, sound, heat and thermodynamics. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL
Corequisite(s): PHYS 231
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 233 Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics II 1 Hour
Students perform physics experiments in electricity, magnetism and optics.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 332
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 255 University Physics I 4 Hours
This is the first half of a year-long course in calculus-based physics suggested for students in the physical sciences and mathematics. Definitions, concepts, and problem solving will be emphasized. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, conservation laws, rotation, harmonic motion, mechanical waves and thermodynamics. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Prerequisite(s): MATH 136 with a minimum grade of C and MATH 137 (may be taken concurrently)
Corequisite(s): PHYS 256
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 256 University Physics I Lab 1 Hour
Students perform physics experiments in mechanics and thermodynamics which stress the fundamental definitions and laws developed in the lecture course. Students gain experience in computerized data acquisition and data analysis using modern techniques and equipment. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL
Corequisite(s): PHYS 255
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 265 University Physics II 4 Hours
This is the second half of a year-long course in calculus-based physics suggested for students in the physical sciences and mathematics. Definitions, concepts, and problem solving will be emphasized. Topics include electricity and magnetism, (electric and magnetic fields, forces, energy, potential, charged particle motion, induction, and circuits), sound waves and optics.
Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 255 with a minimum grade of C and MATH 227 with a minimum grade of C or MATH 137 with a minimum grade of C)
Corequisite(s): PHYS 266
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 266 University Physics II Laboratory 1 Hour
Students perform physics experiments in electricity and magnetism, waves and optics which stress the fundamental definitions and laws developed in the lecture course. Students gain experience in computerized data acquisition and data analysis using modern techniques and equipment.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 255 and MATH 137
Corequisite(s): PHYS 265
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 295 Introduction to Research Methodology 1 Hour
To familiarize Ogden Research Scholars and other research oriented students with the fundamentals of choosing a research topic, performing a bibliographical search on a subject, topic, classification of instruments, data taking, data reduction, professional ethics and other research oriented topics. The common points of research methodology in the different scientific areas will be accentuated. Examples will be drawn from the various disciplines. Use of computers will be emphasized. (Course does not count towards any major or minor.) Note: Ogden Research Scholar, or 3.2 grade point average at the end of freshman year, or Ogden College faculty member recommendation.
Equivalent(s): CHEM 295, MATH 295, CS 295, BIOL 295, ENGR 295
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 299 Research Experiences 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)
Individual or group research project carried out under direct faculty supervision. A faculty approved public presentation is required. Note: Permission of instructor required.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 117 and (PHYS 180 or PHYS 201 or PHYS 231 or PHYS 255)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 301 Electrical Measurements Laboratory 1 Hour
Laboratory experiments in fundamental techniques of electrical measurements.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 265 and PHYS 266
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 302 Atomic Physics Laboratory 1 Hour
Fundamental experiments of historical importance in modern physics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 (may be taken concurrently)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 316 Computational Physics 3 Hours
Use of computers to solve physics problems, model physical systems, and analyze data. Topics include simulating realistic motion, data analysis, Fourier transform, solutions to Laplace's equation, and Monte Carlo methods. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 318 Data Acquisition Using Labview 3 Hours
A study of computer-assisted measurement and automation techniques. Students receive hands-on experience in measuring and controlling physical phenomena through laboratory exercises and projects. Recognized as a LabVIEW Academy course by National Instruments. Offers students the opportunity to become Certified LabVIEW Associate Developers. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 301 with a minimum grade of C or ME 310 with a minimum grade of C or EE 211 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 321 Introductory Modern Physics II 3 Hours
Study of the breakdown of classical physics at velocities close to the speed of light and on atomic scales. Topics include relativistic kinematics and dynamics, wave/particle duality, the Schrodinger equation, square wells, harmonic oscillators, the hydrogen atom, many-electron atoms, statistical distribution laws, conductivity and superconductivity, the band theory of solids, nuclear structure and reactions, and other selected topics of modern physics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 180 and PHYS 265 and MATH 237 (may be taken concurrently) and CHEM 120 (may be taken concurrently)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 330 Thermodynamics 3 Hours
A study of thermodynamic systems, equations of state, entropy, Maxwell-Bolzmann and quantum statistics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 and MATH 237 and MATH 331
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 332 Introduction to Physics and Biophysics II 3 Hours
The second half of a basic course for students of the life sciences, covering the topics of electricity, magnetism, light optics, atomic and nuclear physics. Emphasis is on an understanding of the physical principles operative in biological systems and on the application of physical methods in biology and medicine.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231
Corequisite(s): PHYS 233
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 335 General Biophysics 4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
An introduction to the major fields of biophysics in quantitative terms, with emphasis on the physical techniques applied in biomedical practice and research. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 and PHYS 332 and BIOL 120 and BIOL 121
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 337 Medical Imaging 4 Hours
An introduction to the fundamental and quantitative principles underlying major medical imaging techniques.
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 120 and MATH 136 and (PHYS 332 or PHYS 265)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 350 Classical Mechanics I 3 Hours
A study of classical mechanics including equations of motion, coordinate systems, the simple harmonic oscillator, damping forces, vector algebra, momentum and energy theorems.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 237 (may be taken concurrently) and MATH 331 (may be taken concurrently) and PHYS 265
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 359 Clinical Optics 4 Hours
The optics of the human eye and of corrective lenses for common eye defects.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 332 and PHYS 233
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024
PHYS 363 Science Controversies: Historical and Contemporary 3 Hours
Examine the historical and contemporary scientific conflicts within their social and cultural contexts to better understand and communicate across different scientific and cultural paradigms. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 379 Nanotechnology in Biophysics and Medicine 4 Hours
The physics of nanostructures and thier bio-medical applications.
Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 332 and PHYS 233) or (PHYS 265 and PHYS 266)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
PHYS 389 Practicum in Physics and Astronomy 3-6 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
Practical experience in a supervised work situation. Application of basic knowledge and skills from the student's major discipline or area of career interest, with opportunities in learning the social, psychological, cultural and communication aspects of work. The student is placed under the direction of a supervisor of a cooperating business, industry, agency or institution. Includes specific, learning objectives and evaluation of the student using one or more of the following formats: (1) written reports, (2) seminar presentations, or (3) tests over selected readings. May be repeated with departmental approval.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 398 Junior Seminar 0.5 Hours (repeatable max of 1 hrs)
Weekly seminar series in current topics in physics. Each student will also prepare for and take comprehensive examination in physics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 and PHYS 350
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 399 Research Problems in Physics and Astronomy 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
Assigned reading or research for qualified undergraduates. May be repeated with change of content, but only three hours will count toward a major.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024
PHYS 404 Optics Laboratory 1 Hour
Fundamental laboratory experiments in geometrical and physical optics. Note: Required laboratory for students enrolled in PHYS 441.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 441
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
PHYS 406 Lab / Solid State 1 Hour
Fundamental laboratory experiments in solid state physics.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 460
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
PHYS 407 Nuclear Physics Lab 1 Hour
Fundamental lab experiments in nuclear physics.
Corequisite(s): PHYS 470
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 413 Physics Teaching Seminar: Laboratories 1 Hour
This course develops pedagogical content knowledge and skills for teaching introductory physics laboratory at any level, particularly 7-12 grade. Topics include laboratory pedagogical frameworks such as confirmation labs, guided discovery labs, open-ended labs, and skill-focused labs. The class will be taught in an interactive, hands-on format to allow students to build necessary skills to teach laboratories in traditional, informal, virtual, and computational environments. May be counted as a restricted elective for a physics major or minor that is obtaining teaching certification.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 with a minimum grade of C or PHYS 255 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 415 Physics Teaching Seminar: Forces and Interactions 1 Hour
Course developing pedagogical content knowledge for teaching introductory physics at any level, particularly 7-12 grade. Topics related to forces and interactions, including kinematics, Newton’s laws, and forces (mechanical, electrical, and magnetic). The class will be taught in an interactive, hands-on format in an investigative environment to allow students to build physics concepts through practicing them. May be counted as a restricted elective for a physics major or minor that is obtaining teaching certification.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 with a minimum grade of C or PHYS 255 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
PHYS 416 Physics Teaching Seminar: Momentum and Energy 1 Hour
Course developing pedagogical content knowledge for teaching introductory physics at any level, particularly 7-12 grade. Topics related to momentum and energy, including impulse and momentum, work and energy, conservation of energy, energy transfer and relationship between energy and forces. The class will be taught in an interactive, hands-on format in an investigative environment to allow students to build physics concepts through practicing them. May be counted as a restricted elective for a physics major or minor that is obtaining teaching certification.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 with a minimum grade of C or PHYS 255 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
PHYS 417 Physics Teaching Seminar: Waves, Electricity, and Magnetism 1 Hour
Course developing pedagogical content knowledge for teaching introductory physics at any level, particularly 7-12 grade. Topics related to waves and their applications, including vibration and waves, wave properties, sound waves and light waves, electricity, magnetism, and wave applications in modern technologies. The class will be taught in an interactive, hands-on format in an investigative environment to allow students to build physics concepts through practicing them. May be counted as a restricted elective for a physics major or minor that is obtaining teaching certification.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 231 with a minimum grade of C or PHYS 255 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024
PHYS 425 Physics of Materials Science 3 Hours
This course investigates the fundamental quantum physics of bonding, energetics and structure that underpins the foundation of the physics of materials. The physical properties of nanomaterials and their corresponding applications will be explored using the principles of quantum physics. Materials examined include engineered metal alloys, electronic and magnetic materials, ionic and network solids, ceramics, polymers, and biomaterials at all length scales.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 and MATH 237 and MATH 331 (may be taken concurrently)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024
PHYS 431 Radiation Biophysics 4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
A treatment of the properties of the various forms of radiation and their interaction with, and effects on, living matter. The laboratory offers training in the monitoring of ionizing radiations and in the techniques of radioactive isotopes as applied in biological and clinical work.
Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 201 and PHYS 202) or (PHYS 231 and PHYS 332)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 440 Electricity and Magnetism I 3 Hours
A study of classical electricity and magnetism with emphasis on fields, potentials, conductors, dielectrics, steady currents and radiation.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 350 and MATH 237 and MATH 331
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
PHYS 441 Optics 3 Hours
A study of geometrical and physical optics including wave propagation, refraction, dispersion, diffraction and polarization.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 180 and PHYS 265 and MATH 137
Corequisite(s): PHYS 404
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
PHYS 445 Electromagnetism II 3 Hours
The study of classical electrodynamics with emphasis on Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves, dispersion, and radiation.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 440
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024
PHYS 450 Classical Mechanics II 3 Hours
A study of rigid body motion, moving coordinate systems, Lagrange's equations, small vibrations and the special theory of relativity as applied to mechanics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 350 and MATH 237 and MATH 331
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
PHYS 460 Solid State Physics 3 Hours
An introductory course in the theory of solids including geometrical and x-ray crystallography, Maxwell-Boltzmann and Fermi-Dirac statistics, free electron theory of metals, Brillouin Zones, band-model of semiconductors and the Hall Effect.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 and MATH 237 and MATH 331
Corequisite(s): PHYS 406
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
PHYS 465 Geophysics 3 Hours
The fundamentals of general and exploration geophysics. Topics include the origin of the earth and solar system, the earth's interior, geochronology, gravity and isostasy, seismology, the earth's heat, geomagnetism, upper atmosphere, continents and ocean basins, ridges and island arcs, and plate tectonics. The theory and applications of exploration geophysics are also covered, especially gravity, magnetic, and seismic methods. Note: One year of college physics or permission of instructor required.
Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111
Equivalent(s): GEOL 465
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 470 Nuclear Physics 3 Hours
The properties of the nucleus including radioactivity, radiation detectors, nuclear reactions, nuclear mass and size determination, alpha, beta, and gamma decay, nuclear models, particle accelerators, fission and elementary particles.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 302 and PHYS 321 and MATH 331
Corequisite(s): PHYS 407
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
PHYS 475 Selected Topics in Physics 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
Each topic is a course in directed study under the supervision of a faculty member. Available for full credit in subsequent sessions with change of content. Note: Permission of instructor is required.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024
PHYS 480 Quantum Mechanics 3 Hours
A study of the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics including the hydrogen and helium atoms, the harmonic oscillator, and the Schroedinger wave equation.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 321 and PHYS 350 and MATH 237 and (PHYS 440 or PHYS 450 or MATH 435)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
PHYS 489 Internship in Physics and Astronomy 3-6 Hours (repeatable max of 24 hrs)
Practical experience in a supervised work situation. Application of advanced knowledge and skills from the student's major discipline or area of career interest, with opportunities in learning the social, psychological, cultural, and communication aspects of work. The student is placed under the direction of a supervisor of a cooperating business industry, agency or institution. Includes specific learning objectives and evaluation of student using one or more of the following formats: (1) written reports, (2) seminar presentations, or (3) tests over selected readings. Note: May be repeated with departmental approval.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024
PHYS 498 Senior Seminar 0.5 Hours (repeatable max of 1 hrs)
Weekly seminar series in current topics in physics. Each student will also prepare and give an oral presentation of current research in physics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 398
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024