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Astronomy (ASTR) and Physics (PHYS)
Professors: Fisher (Chair), Kulp
Assistant Professors: Morris, E. Wilson
Lab Manager/Planetarium Manager: Kiehl
Majors: Astronomy, Astrophysics, Computational Physics, Engineering Physics, Physics
- Astronomy Concentrations: General Astronomy, Astrobiology, Astrochemistry
- Courses required for General Astronomy, Physics: 13 (B.A.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
- Courses required for Astrobiology, Astrochemistry: 14 (B.A.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
- Courses required for Computational Physics: 16 (B.S.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
- Courses required for Engineering Physics, Physics: 17 (B.S.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
- Courses required for Astrophysics, : 18 (B.S.) (not including zero or 1 credit courses)
- Math prerequisite (not counted in major): MATH 127
- Non-credit Colloquium: 4 semesters
- Capstone requirement: ASTR or PHYS 448 (or research experience plus an additional course with departmental approval)
- Minors: Astronomy, Physics
The department offers five majors, astronomy, astrophysics, computational physics, engineering physics, and
physics. The major in astronomy consists of three possible concentrations, general astronomy, astrobiology, and astrochemistry.
Astronomy (ASTR)
The B.A. Degree
The major in astronomy requires courses in astronomy, physics, chemistry, and mathematics. A student majoring in astronomy needs to complete the core courses and one concentration. A student may not earn more than one concentration in astronomy. The astronomy concentrations are:
General Astronomy: The General Astronomy concentration consists of courses which cover a wide range of topics in astronomy. The General Astronomy concentration prepares the student for planetarium work and/or museum education and may serve as a basis for earning state certification as a secondary school teacher of general science. Students who wish to pursue graduate study in astronomy are strongly recommended to either double-major with physics or pursue the astrophysics major.
Astrobiology: The Astrobiology Concentration consists of courses which cover a wide range of topics in both astronomy and biology. The Astrobiology Concentration provides the student an alternate route for certification as a secondary school teacher of general science. The student would have more experience with biology than a general astronomy student, which could prove advantageous for attaining secondary school science positions. Students who wish to pursue graduate study in astrobiology are strongly recommended to double-major in Biology with the General Astronomy concentration.
Astrochemistry: The Astrochemistry Concentration consists of courses which cover a wide range of topics in both astronomy and chemistry. The Astrochemistry Concentration provides the student an alternate route for certification as a secondary school teacher of general science. The student would have more experience with chemistry than a general astronomy student, which could prove advantageous for attaining secondary school science positions. Students who wish to pursue graduate study in astrochemistry are strongly recommended to double-major in Chemistry with the General Astronomy concentration.
The Department of Astronomy and Physics does not offer a B.S. degree in astronomy, but we do offer a B.S. Degree in astrophysics. Students interested in a B.S. degree in astronomy should consider pursuing the astrophysics major.
Astronomy
Major Requirements
The B.A. degree in astronomy requires courses in astronomy, physics, chemistry, and mathematics. The required courses are:
ASTR 111 Fundamentals of Astronomy
ASTR 448 Research topics
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
PHYS 225 Fundamentals of Physics I
PHYS 226 Fundamentals of Physics II
two courses from the following
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II
CHEM 330 Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 331 Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 439 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
Astronomy majors are also required to register for four semesters of ASTR 349/449 (non-credit colloquia).
General Astronomy Concentration: Complete five additional astronomy courses numbered ASTR 112 or higher, four of which must be ASTR 230 or higher.
Astrobiology Concentration: ASTR 243 and 445; BIO 110, 111, and 436
Note: A student may not double major in Biology and Astronomy with the Astrobiology Concentration, nor may a student major in Astronomy with the Astrobiology Concentration and minor in Biology. However, a student may double major in Biology and Astronomy with the General Astronomy or Astrochemistry Concentrations. The W course requirement may be satisfied in either astronomy or biology.
Astrochemistry Concentration: ASTR 243 and 445; CHEM 222/223, 224/225, 232, and 333
Note: A student may not double major in Chemistry and Astronomy with the Astrochemistry Concentration nor may a student major in Astronomy with an Astrochemistry concentration and minor in Chemistry. However, a student may double major in Chemistry and Astronomy with the General Astronomy or Astrobiology Concentrations. The W course requirement may be satisfied in either astronomy or chemistry.
The following course is recommended: PHIL 333.
Students interested in teacher certification should refer to the Department of Education listing.
Capstone Requirement
All majors must successfully complete ASTR 448. This requirement may also be satisfied by doing an individual studies or honors project where the results would be presented at a departmental colloquium. A double major in astronomy and physics need only take the course once. The project pursued for ASTR 448 must be relevant to the student’s concentration. Students who have successfully completed a summer REU, RUG, or equivalent research experience may request departmental approval to substitute off-campus experience plus an additional advanced astronomy or physics course not already required by the major in place of ASTR 448.
Writing Courses
A list of courses that, when scheduled as W courses, count toward the Writing Requirement, can be found on the Registrar’s website and in the GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS section of the catalog.
Minor Requirements
A minor in astronomy consists of ASTR 111 and PHYS 225 plus any three additional courses selected from PHYS 226 or ASTR courses numbered 200 or higher.
000
LABORATORY TEACHING METHODS
Provides practical experience in laboratory teaching. Students in this course are paired with a faculty mentor and help supervise labs; deliver pre-lab lectures; and assist in ordering chemicals, supplies, and equipment and in preparing laboratory experiments. Students complete a project that integrates the physical science education literature, classroom instruction materials, laboratory safety, and proper storage and disposal of materials and equipment used. In the appropriate situation, a student may substitute planetarium show preparation and presentation for laboratory exercises. Cross-listed as PHYS 000. Open to junior physics and astronomy majors pursuing certification in education, with consent of instructor. Non-credit course.
101
PRINCIPLES OF ASTRONOMY
A broad summary of the current view of the universe, from the solar system to distant galaxies.
Describes the instruments and techniques used by astronomers, today and in the past, to develop
concepts about the nature of the universe and its contents. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 101
and ASTR 105, 106, or 111.
102
PRINCIPLES OF GEOLOGY
A broad summary of the physical nature of the Earth, including its internal structure and surface processes. Shows how past events can be reconstructed from preserved evidence to reveal the geologic history of our planet from its origin to the present. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 102 and 112. Four hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. Alternate years.
104
FIELD GEOLOGY
A methods course introducing the field techniques needed to study the geology of an area. May or Summer term only.
105
SOLAR SYSTEM ASTRONOMY
An introduction to solar system astronomy for the non-major. The course begins with a study of the sky and the motions of major objects including the Sun, Moon, and planets. From there, the historical development of astronomy leads to our modern-day understanding of our Solar System. The laws of planetary motion, the structure of the Solar System, and the formation of the solar system are discussed alongside an exploration of individual planets and their satellites, asteroids, and the other bodies in our Solar System. The course concludes with a look outwards towards our still new and rapidly expanding knowledge of exoplanets, hundreds of which have been discovered within recent decades. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 105 and ASTR 101 or ASTR 111.
106
STARS AND GALAXIES
An introduction to stellar and galactic astronomy for students not majoring in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. Starts with the instruments and techniques used by astronomers to determine the physical properties of stars and galaxies. Then considers the energy sources that power stars and how stars change their structure as they tap various energy sources. Describes the different types of galaxies, and how our ideas of galaxy formation have changed over time. Concludes with the expansion of the universe, its origin in the Big Bang, and its possible future development. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 106 and ASTR 101 or ASTR 111.
111
FUNDAMENTALS OF ASTRONOMY
An introduction to the nature of the physical universe including its contents (from our solar system to distant galaxies), its history, and the physical processes occurring in it. The course is quantitative, utilizing algebra, as well as trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions.This course is designed for students considering majoring in one of the natural sciences or mathematics. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 111 and ASTR 101, 105, or 106. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: MATH placement of level 4, credit for or concurrent enrollment in MATH 127, or consent of instructor.
112
FUNDAMENTALS OF GEOLOGY
An introduction to the study of the Earth including its composition, structure, history, and the processes occurring on its surface and in its interior. The course includes some elementary geophysics and geochemistry, and uses algebra, along with trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. This course is designed for students considering majoring in one of the natural sciences, mathematics, or archaeology. Credit may not be earned for both ASTR 102 and 112. Four hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: MATH placement of level 4, credit for or concurrent enrollment in MATH 127, or consent of instructor.
230
PLANETARIUM TECHNIQUES
A methods course covering major aspects of planetarium programming, operation, and maintenance. Students are required to prepare and present a planetarium show. Upon successfully completing the course, students are eligible to become planetarium assistants. Three hours of lecture and demonstration and three hours of practical training per week. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in ASTR 101 or 111. Alternate years.
243
PLANETARY SCIENCE
A comparative survey of the various classes of natural objects that orbit the sun, including the major planets, their satellites, the minor planets, and comets. Topics include meteorological processes in atmospheres, geological processes that shape surface features, internal structures, the role of spacecraft in the exploration of the solar system, and clues to the origin and dynamic evolution of the solar system. Four hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in ASTR 111 or 112, or PHYS 225. Alternate years.
340
THE INVISIBLE UNIVERSE
The astrophysics of celestial objects that emit thermal and non-thermal radiation outside the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Traces the development of observational techniques at radio, infrared, ultraviolet, x-ray, and gamma-ray wavelengths. Includes cosmic microwave background radiation, pulsars, quasars, gamma-ray bursters, magnetars, and active galactic nuclei. Cross-listed as PHYS 340. Four hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 226.
344
RELATIVITY AND COSMOLOGY
A detailed presentation of the special theory of relativity and an introduction to the general theory, including its application to black holes and cosmology. Topics include observational and experimental tests of relativity, four-vectors, tensors, space-time curvature, alternative cosmological models, and the origin and future of the universe. Four hours of lecture per week. Cross-listed as PHYS 344. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 225. Alternate years.
345
SPECIAL TOPICS IN ASTROPHYSICS
A study of selected topics in astrophysics. May be repeated for credit with consent of department when topics are different. Alternate years. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 226.
445
STELLAR EVOLUTION
The physical principles governing the internal structure and external appearance of stars. Mechanisms of energy generation and transport within stars. The evolution of stars from initial formation to final stages. The creation of chemical elements by nucleosynthesis. Four hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 226. Alternate years.
446
STELLAR DYNAMICS AND GALACTIC STRUCTURE
The motion of objects in gravitational fields. Introduction to the n-body problem, the relation between stellar motions and the galactic potential, and the large-scale structure of galaxies in general and of the Milky Way Galaxy in particular. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 225. Four hours of lecture per week. Alternate years.
448
RESEARCH TOPICS
Students participate in a research project under the guidance of a faculty member in the department. In weekly meetings, they share reports from the literature and report on their own work. Topics range from abstract theoretical to selected practical experimental investigations. Cross-listed as PHYS 448. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be taken a second time with consent of department.
349, 449
ASTRONOMY AND PHYSICS COLLOQUIA
This non-credit but required course for juniors and seniors majoring in astronomy and physics offers students a chance to meet and hear active scientists in astronomy, physics, and related scientific areas talk about their own research or professional activities. In addition, majors in astronomy and physics must present two lectures, one given during the junior year and one given during the senior year, on the results of a literature survey or their individual research. Four semesters required during the junior and senior years. Cross-listed as PHYS 349 and 449. One hour per week. Pass/Fail except when the student gives a lecture. Non-credit course.
470-479
INTERNSHIP
N80-N89
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Independent studies may be undertaken in most areas of astronomy.
490-491
INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR DEPARTMENTAL HONORS
Astrophysics
Major Requirements
The B.S. degree in astrophysics requires courses in astronomy, physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
The required courses are:
| ASTR 111 |
Fundamentals of Astronomy |
| ASTR/PHYS 448 |
Research Topics |
| CHEM 122/123 |
General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I |
| MATH 128 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry I |
| MATH 129 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II |
| MATH 231 |
Differential Equations |
| PHYS 225 |
Fundamentals of Physics I |
| PHYS 226 |
Fundamentals of Physics II |
| PHYS 331 |
Classical Mechanics |
| PHYS 332 |
Electromagnetism |
| PHYS 338 |
Modern Physics |
| PHYS/CHEM 439 |
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics |
- Four courses from ASTR 244 or higher
- One course from the following:
| MATH 238 |
Multivariable Calculus |
| PHYS 336 |
Mathematical Methods of Physics |
- One course from the following:
| PHYS 345 |
Experimental Physics |
| PHYS 445 |
Experimental Data Analysis |
- Astrophysics majors are also required to register for two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 349 and two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 449 (non-credit colloquia).
Capstone Requirement
All majors must successfully complete ASTR/PHYS 448. This requirement may also be satisfied by completing an individual studies or honors project and presenting the results at a departmental colloquium. Students who have successfully completed a summer NSF-sponsored Research Experience for Undergraduates, or equivalent research experience may request departmental approval to substitute off-campus experience plus an additional advanced astronomy or physics course not already required by the astrophysics major in place of ASTR/PHYS 448.
Computational Physics
Major Requirements
The B.S. degree in computational physics requires courses in physics, computer science, and mathematics.
| CPTR 125 |
Introduction to Computer Science |
| CPTR 246 |
Principles of Advanced Programming |
| CPTR 247 |
Data Structures |
| MATH 128 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry I |
| MATH 129 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II |
| PHYS 225 |
Fundamentals of Physics I |
| PHYS 226 |
Fundamentals of Physics II |
| PHYS 346 |
Special Topics in Computational Physics |
| PHYS 448 |
Research Topics |
- Three additional courses numbered PHYS 300 or higher
- One course from the following:
| Any CPTR course |
numbered 300 or higher |
| MATH 342 |
Topics in Numerical Analysis |
| MATH 442 |
Topics in Numerical Analysis |
- One course from the following:
| BIO 110 |
Introduction to Biology I |
| CHEM 122/123 |
General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I |
- One course from the following:
| MATH 115 |
Applied Discrete Mathematics |
| MATH 216 |
Discrete Mathematics |
- One course from the following:
| MATH 238 |
Multivariable Calculus |
| PHYS 336 |
Mathematical Methods of Physics |
- Computational Physics majors are also required to register for two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 349 and two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 449 (non-credit colloquia).
Capstone Requirement
All majors must successfully complete PHYS 448. This requirement may also be satisfied by completing an individual studies or honors project and presenting the results at a departmental colloquium. Students who have successfully completed a summer NSF-sponsored Research Experience for Undergraduates, or equivalent research experience may request departmental approval to substitute off-campus experience plus an additional advanced physics course not already required by the Astrophysics major in place of PHYS 448.
Engineering Physics
Major Requirements
The B.S. degree in engineering physics requires courses in physics, chemistry, computer science and mathematics.
- The required courses are:
| CHEM 122/123 |
General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I |
| CPTR 125 |
Introduction to Computer Science |
| MATH 128 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry I |
| MATH 129 |
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II |
| MATH 231 |
Differential Equations |
| PHYS 225 |
Fundamentals of Physics I |
| PHYS 226 |
Fundamentals of Physics II |
| PHYS 331 |
Classical Mechanics |
| PHYS 332 |
Electromagnetism |
| PHYS 337 |
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics |
| PHYS 338 |
Modern Physics |
| PHYS 341 |
Electronics |
| PHYS 345 |
Experimental Physics |
- One course from the following:
| CHEM 124/125 |
General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II |
| CHEM/PHYS 439 |
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics |
- One course from the following:
| MATH 238 |
Multivariable Calculus |
| PHYS 336 |
Mathematical Methods of Physics |
- One course from the following:
| PHYS 445 |
Advanced Experimental Physics |
| PHYS 448 |
Research Topics |
- One course from the following:
| CPTR 200 or higher |
| MATH 200 of higher |
| PHYS 300 or higher |
- Engineering physics majors are also required to register for two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 349 and two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 449 (non-credit colloquia).
Physics (PHYS)
The B.A. Degree
The B.A. degree in physics requires courses in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. The required courses are:
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
PHYS 225 Fundamentals of Physics I
PHYS 226 Fundamentals of Physics II
PHYS 331 Classical Mechanics
PHYS 332 Electromagnetism
PHYS 338 Modern Physics
PHYS 345 Intermediate Experimental Physics
PHYS 445 Experimental Data Analysis
PHYS 448 Research Topics
One course from the following:
CHEM 111 General Chemistry II
CHEM/PHYS 439 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
One course from the following:
MATH 238 Multivariable Calculus
PHYS 336 Mathematical Methods of Physics
Physics majors are also required to register for two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 349 and two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 449 (non-credit colloquia).
The B.S. Degree
Students interested in pursuing graduate studies or work in a technical position in government or industry should consider pursuing the B.S. degree.
The B.S. degree in physics requires courses in physics, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics. The required courses are:
CHEM 122/123 General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I
CPTR 125 Introduction to Computer Science
MATH 128 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
MATH 129 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
MATH 231 Differential Equations
MATH 238 Multivariable Calculus
PHYS 225 Fundamentals of Physics I
PHYS 226 Fundamentals of Physics II
PHYS 331 Classical Mechanics
PHYS 332 Electromagnetism
PHYS 338 Modern Physics
PHYS 448 Research Topics
One course from the following:
CHEM 124/125 General Chemistry II and General Chemistry Laboratory II
CHEM/PHYS 439 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
One course from the following:
MATH 238 Multivariable Calculus
PHYS 336 Mathematical Methods of Physics
One course from the following:
PHYS 345 Experimental Physics
PHYS 445 Experimental Data Analysis
Three additional courses from any of the following:
ASTR 243 or higher
CPTR 200 or higher
MATH 200 or higher
PHYS 300 or higher
Physics majors are also required to register for two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 349 and two semesters of ASTR/PHYS 449 (non-credit colloquia).
Students interested in teacher certification should refer to the Department of Education listing.
Capstone Requirement
All majors must successfully complete PHYS 448. This requirement may also be satisfied by doing an individual studies or honors project and presenting the results at a departmental colloquium. A double major in astronomy and physics need only take the course once. Students who have successfully completed a summer REU, RUG, or equivalent research experience may request departmental approval to substitute that experience plus an additional advanced astronomy or physics course not already required by the major in place of PHYS 448. Note that if the student has already counted two astronomy courses toward a physics major, then the extra course in place of PHYS 448 must be a physics course.
Diversity and Writing Courses
The following course satisfies the Global Cultural Diversity Requirement: PHYS 108. A list of courses that, when scheduled as W courses, count toward the Writing Requirement, can be found on the Registrar’s website and in the GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS section of the catalog.
Minor Requirements
A minor in physics requires completion of the following courses: PHYS 225, 226, 331, 332, and one additional physics course numbered 300 or higher.
000
LABORATORY TEACHING METHODS
Provides students with practical experience in laboratory teaching. Students in this course are paired with a faculty mentor and help supervise labs; deliver pre-lab lectures; and assist in ordering chemicals, supplies, and equipment and in preparing laboratory experiments. Students complete a project that integrates the physical science education literature, classroom instruction materials, laboratory safety, and proper storage and disposal of materials and equipment used. Cross-listed as ASTR 000. Open to junior physics and astronomy majors pursuing certification in education, with consent of instructor. Non-credit course.
105
PHYSICS PHOR EVERYONE
An introduction to physics for non-majors. The course will focus on developing a conceptual understanding of motion electricity, magnetism, and light, along with selected topics from modern physics. This course does not count towards the physics major. Four hours of lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: MATH 100 or Math placement of level 2 or higher.
108
GREAT IDEAS OF THE PHYSICAL UNIVERSE
An introduction to several major concepts of physics which have developed over the past several centuries, relating them to their broad implications. The emphasis is on a descriptive rather than a mathematical discussion of topics which range from early Greek concepts of science to present-day methods and techniques used to describe the physical universe. Many distinctions and similarities between science and other areas of human endeavor are studied to demonstrate the beauty, simplicity, harmony, and grandeur of some of the basic laws which govern the universe. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Fulfills Global Cultural Diversity Requirement. Alternate years.
225
FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS I
A mathematically rigorous introduction to physics designed for majors in the natural sciences and mathematics. Topics include classical mechanics, thermodynamics, and mechanical waves. Five hours of lecture and recitation and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite or corequisite: MATH 128.
226
FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS II
A mathematically rigorous introduction to physics designed for majors in the natural sciences and mathematics. Topics include electromagnetism, optics, and quantum physics. Five hours of lecture and recitation and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: PHYS 225. Prerequisite or corequisite: MATH 129.
331
CLASSICAL MECHANICS
An analytical approach to classical mechanics. Topics include kinematics and dynamics of single particles and systems of particles, gravitation and other central forces, moving reference frames, and Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of mechanics. Prerequisites: MATH 129 and a grade of C or better in PHYS 225. Alternate years.
332
ELECTROMAGNETISM
A theoretical treatment of classical electromagnetism. Topics include electrostatics, magnetostatics, electric and magnetic potentials, electric and magnetic properties of matter, Maxwell’s equations, the electromagnetic field, and the propagation of electromagnetic radiation. Prerequisites: MATH 129 and a grade of C or better in PHYS 226. Alternate years.
336
MATHEMATICAL METHODS OF PHYSICS
Solution of ordinary linear differential equations using power series and Laplace transforms, nonlinear differential and coupled differential equations, Fourier analysis using both trigonometric and complex exponential functions, complex variables, eigenvalue problems, infinite dimensional vector spaces, partial differential equations, boundary value problem solutions to the wave equation, heat flow equation, and Laplace’s equation. Prerequisite: MATH 129.
337
THERMODYNAMICS AND STATISTICAL MECHANICS
Presents classical thermodynamics, showing that the macroscopic properties of a system can be specified without knowledge of the microscopic properties of the constituents of the system. Also develops statistical mechanics, showing that these same macroscopic properties are determined by the microscopic properties. Prerequisites: PHYS 226 and MATH 129. Alternate years.
338
MODERN PHYSICS
Thorough investigation of changes in the classical understanding of space and time together with those of energy and matter that led to the time development of relativistic and quantum mechanical theories. Topics include introduction to special relativity, blackbody radiation, the postulation of the photon and quantization, atomic spectra, interactions of matter and energy, Bohr model of the atom, concepts of symmetry, and development and applications of the Schrödinger equation. Prerequisites: MATH 129 and a grade of C or better in PHYS 226.
339
CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS
Structural topics include ordinary crystalline structures, liquid crystals, quasi-crystals, and nanostructures. Property-related topics include periodic potentials, band structure, electromagnetic and thermal properties, superconductivity, and aspects of surface physics. Prerequisites: PHYS 332 and MATH 129 or consent of instructor. Alternate years.
340
THE INVISIBLE UNIVERSE
The astrophysics of celestial objects that emit thermal and non-thermal radiation outside the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Traces the development of observational techniques at radio, infrared, ultraviolet, x-ray, and gamma-ray wavelengths. Includes cosmic microwave background radiation, pulsars, quasars, gamma-ray bursters, magnetars, and active galactic nuclei. Cross-listed as ASTR 340. Four hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 226. Alternate years.
341
ELECTRONICS
DC and AC circuit analysis, semiconductor physics, active devices such as PN junctions, transistors, operational amplifiers, and integrated circuits. Basics of digital electronics and vacuum tube technologies. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: PHYS 225 and MATH 128. Alternate years.
344
RELATIVITY AND COSMOLOGY
A detailed presentation of the special theory of relativity and an introduction to the general theory. Topics include observational and experimental tests of relativity, four vectors, tensors, space-time curvature, alternative cosmological models, and the origin and future of the universe. Cross-listed as ASTR 344. Four hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: ASTR 111 and PHYS 225. Alternate years.
345
EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS
An introduction to laboratory techniques beyond those covered in introductory physics. Students receive instruction in laboratory techniques, data analysis, written and oral presentation of data, and the use of computers for collecting and analyzing data. Experiments focus on the fields of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: PHYS 226. Alternate years.
346
SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS
A study in the selected methodologies used in modeling physical systems. Alternate years. May be repeated for credit with consent of department when topics are different. Prerequisites: PHYS 226 and CPTR 125 or consent of the instructor.
347
SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMPLEX SYSTEMS
A study of selected methodologies in the analysis and modeling of complex adaptive systems from the natural and social sciences. May be repeated for credit with consent of department when topics are different. Alternate years. Prerequisites: PHYS 225 or CPTR 125 or consent of the instructor.
435
NONLINEAR AND COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Students learn how to develop and analyze nonlinear mathematical models of complex systems from the physical, biological, and social sciences. Topics include equation-based and agent-based modeling, bifurcation theory, limit cycles, chaos, fractals, and time series analysis. Prerequisites: PHYS 225 and MATH 129 or consent of instructor. Alternate years.
439
INTRODUCTION TO QUANTUM MECHANICS
Introduction to the basic concepts and principles of quantum theory. Uses the Schrödinger wave equation approach to present solutions to the free particle, the simple harmonic oscillator, the hydrogen atom, and other central force problems. Topics also include operator formalism, eigenstates, eigenvalues, the uncertainty principles, stationary states, representation of wave functions by eigenstate expansions, and the Heisenberg matrix approach. Cross-listed as CHEM 439. Four hours of lecture. Prerequisites: MATH 231 and either PHYS 226 or CHEM 331. Alternate years.
445
EXPERIMENTAL DATA ANALYSIS
A course in experimental physics with emphasis on computer-aided analysis of experimental data. Students receive instruction on experimental design, laboratory techniques, and written and oral presentation of data. Experiments cover a range of topics including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: PHYS 226. Alternate years.
447
NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS
Considers properties of nuclei, nuclear models, radioactivity, nuclear reactions (including fission and fusion), and properties of elementary particles. Includes the interactions of nuclear particles with matter and the detection of nuclear particles. Reveals how observed phenomena lead to theories on the nature of fundamental interactions, how these forces act at the smallest measurable distances, and what is expected to occur at even smaller distances. Prerequisites: PHYS 226, MATH 129, and either PHYS 338 or CHEM 122/123. Alternate years.
448
RESEARCH TOPICS
Students participate in a research project under the guidance of a faculty member in the department. In weekly meetings, they share reports from the literature and report on their own work. Topics range from abstract theoretical to selected practical experimental investigations. Cross-listed as ASTR 448. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be taken a second time with consent of department.
349 & 449 ASTRONOMY AND PHYSICS COLLOQUIA This non-credit but required course for juniors and seniors majoring in astronomy and physics offers students a chance to meet and hear active scientists in astronomy, physics, and related scientific areas talk about their own research or professional activities. In addition, majors in astronomy and physics must present two lectures, one given during the junior year and one given during the senior year, on the results of a literature survey or their individual research. Four semesters required during the junior and senior years. Cross-listed as ASTR 349 and 449. One hour per week. Pass/Fail except when the student gives a lecture. Non-credit course.
470-479
INTERNSHIP
Interns in physics work off campus under the supervision of professional physicists employed by local industries or hospitals.
N80-N89
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Independent studies may be undertaken in most areas of physics.
490-491
INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR DEPARTMENTAL HONORS