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Course Descriptions

The following are decriptions of all courses currently offered by the Department of Physics and Astronomy. For more information see the Rowan Course Catalog. For course availability, see the Section Tally Report from the Registrar's Office.

Physics (PHYS 02)

PHYS 02.120..........................................3 s.h.
Selected Topics in Physics
The content of this course varies to reflect the role of physics in society. A limited number of topics are selected from among the following: mechanics, thermodynamics, sound, light and optics, electricity, and magnetism, electric circuits, modern physics or the investigation of the physics of applied technologies. It studies the fundatmental principles underlying the topics and considers connections to the physical and social environment.

PHYS 02.140..........................................4 s.h.
The Physics of Current Technologies
This course introduces contemporary concepts of physics through their application in commercially available technologies. The course mostly focuses on information storage technologies but actual course content evolves to reflect the specialties of the instructor. Concepts such as electrical resistance, magnetic fields, magnetic domains, electron tunneling, and assorted microscopic techniques will be introduced. Laboratories consist of hands-on activities including the imaging of magnetic information (magnetic domains), optical information (CD dyes) and individual atoms.

PHYS 02.150..........................................4 s.h.
Physics of Everyday Life
The goal of this course is to expose students with a non-science background to physics. The students will experience the excitement of physics by examining phenomena of our everyday environment. The historical development of such ideas will be studied as well. Topics selected for study include mechanics, matter, heat, sound, light, electricity magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics. Physics will be communicated conceptually rather than mathematically.

PHYS 02.175..........................................4 s.h.
Physics of Sound and Music
The goal of this course is to expose students to physics through its application to sound and music. The students will study these applications by examining the phenomena of voice, sound, hearing, musical instruments, acoustics, electronic technology, and reproduction of sound and music. The historical development of such topics will be studied as well.

PHYS 02.200..........................................4 s.h.
Introductory Mechanics
(Co/Prerequisite: MATH 01.130)
This course studies the basic principles of mechanics and is equivalent to most calculus based introductory mechanics courses often entitled Physics I. The course is designed to cover introductory mechanics (Newton's laws, energy and momentum conservation, rotating systems, statics, gravity and simple harmonic motion) at a level appropriate for future scientists and engineers. The course includes a laboratory component and it emphasizes problem solving techniques.

PHYS 02.210..........................................4 s.h.
Introductory Thermodynamics, Fluids, Waves, & Optics
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.200)
This introductory course studies the basic principles of thermodynamics, fluids, waves, and optics and their application. The concepts will be applied through problem solving and laboratory experiences. A large portion of the content of this course builds from the concept of conservation of energy covered in the introductory mechanics course. The course is required for any physical science or physics major and recommended for those majoring in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, engineering, or mathematics. The specific topics covered include elastic properties of materials, fluid mechanics mechanical waves, sound, conduction of heat, kinetic theory of gasses, the law¿s of thermodynamics, light, geometric optics, interference and diffraction.

PHYS 02.201..........................................4 s.h.
Introductory Electricity & Magnetism
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.200; Co/Prerequisite MATH 01.131)
This course studies the basic principles of electricity and magnetism and is equivalent to most calculus based introductory electricity and magnetism courses often entitled Physics II. The course is designed to cover introductory electricity and magnetism (charge, current, potential, fields, AC and DC circuits, Maxwell's Equations, and electromagnetic waves) at a level appropriate for future scientists and engineers. The course includes a laboratory component and it emphasizes problem solving techniques.

PHYS 02.202..........................................4 s.h.
Physics I w/o Calculus
This course studies the basic principles of mechanics, heat, and fluids. Calculus is not used. The course emphasizes problem work involving the use of Algebra and Geometry.

PHYS 02.203..........................................4 s.h.
Physics II w/o Calculus
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.202 or PHYS 02.200)
This course studies the basics principles of electricity, magnetism, and light. Calculus is not used. The course emphasizes problem work involving the use of Algebra and Geometry.

PHYS 02.211........................................1–3 s.h.
Physics Research I
(Prereqisite: minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in physics. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

PHYS 02.212........................................1–3 s.h.
Physics Research II
(Prereqisite: minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in physics. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

PHYS 02.300..........................................4 s.h.
Modern Physics (Laboratory and Lecture)
(Prerequisite: MATH 01.131, PHYS 02.201, PHYS 02.203 or permission of the instructor)
This course covers modern physics developed since the turn of the 20th century. After a review of some classical physics, course topics include special relativity, wave and particle aspects of radiation, matter waves, models of the atom, ionization, spectra, x-rays, and introductory quantum theory. It also covers theories developed by Planck, Einstien, Rutherford, Bragg, Bohr, Compton, de Broglie, Pauli, Schrodinger, and Heisenberg.

PHYS 02.305..........................................4 s.h.
Optics and Light (Laboratory and Lecture)
(Prerequisite: MATH 01.131, PHYS 02.201, PHYS 02.203 or permission of the instructor)
This course studies the nature and propagation of light, dispersion, reflection and refraction at plane and spherical surfaces, lenses (thin and thick), aberrations of lenses and mirrors, optical instruments, polarization, diffraction and photometry. It also discusses modern developments and techniques (such as fiber optics, lasers, holography). This course may not be offered annually.

PHYS 02.311........................................1–3 s.h.
Physics Research III
(Prereqisite: PHYS 02.300 AND minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in physics. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

PHYS 02.315..........................................4 s.h.
Analytical Mechanics (Lecture Only)
(Prerequisite: MATH 01.131, PHYS 02.200)
This course teaches students Newtonian, Lagrangian, and Hamiltionian formulations of mechanics, and their applications to such problems as Central Force Motion, Linear and Nonlinear Oscillations, Collisions between particles, Noninertial Systems, Coupled Oscillations and Normal Coordinates, and Rigid Bodies.

PHYS 02.325..........................................3 s.h.
Mathematical Mechanics (Lecture Only)
(Prerequisite: MATH 01.131, PHYS 02.201 or PHYS 02.203 or permission of instructor)
This introductory course studies topics as they apply to physics: infinite series, complex numbers, determinants and matrices, partial differentiation, vector calculus, Fourier series. Certain more advanced topics may be treated: calculus of variations, gamma and beta functions, coordinate transformations, tensor analysis, functions of complex variable, Legendre polynomials and Bessel functions. This course may not be offered annually.

PHYS 02.333..........................................3 s.h.
Introduction to Optical Desgin Program ZEMAX
Junior or Senior standing; science or engineering major
The ZEMAX optical design program is a comprehensive software tool for opitcal design. It integrates all the features required to conceptualize, design, optimize, analyze, tolerance, and document virtually any optical system. This course discusses the theory of optical system design with focus on geometrical optics and aberration theory. It introduces the computer program ZEMAX as a tool for lens designs such as spectrometers, scanning systems and telescopes. ZEMAX is widely used in the optics industry as a standard design tool.

PHYS 02.387..........................................3 s.h.
Statistical Physics
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.300)
The student will study in detail the laws of thermodynamics. The statistical derivation of these laws wil be presented. Topics include: ideal gasses, classical and quantum distribution functions, phase transitions, and other special topics.

PHYS 02.399..........................................4 s.h.
Electric Circuits (Lecture and Lab)
(Prerequisite: MATH 01.131, PHYS 02.201 or PHYS 02.203)
This course provides an analytic study of electric circuit theory and methods of single phase and polyphase circuit analysis. Intended for Pre-engineering and Physical Sciences majors. Problem work is emphasized. This course may not be offered annually.

PHYS 02.401..........................................4 s.h.
Quantum Mechanics I
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.300)
This course will serve as an introducction to quantum mechanics. Students will learn the basic concepts of quantum mechanics and how to solve simple problems using quantum mechanics. Topics selected for study include the origins of quantum mechanics, the free particle in wave mechanics, particles in one-dimensional potentials, the axiomatic formulation of quantum physics, particles in three-dimensions, spin, and the Pauli exclusion principle.

PHYS 02.402..........................................3 s.h.
Quantum Mechanics II
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.401, or permission of instructor)
This course is a continuation of Quantum Mechanics I. Students will learn more advanced concepts and problems in quantum mechanics. Topics selected for study include the formalism of quantum mechanics, particles in three-dimensions, spin and angular momentum, quantum statistical mechanics, time-independent perturbation theory, time-dependent perturbation theory, and scattering. Some topics may overlap with the ones in Quantum Mechanics I, but are taught on a higher level.

PHYS 02.411........................................1–3 s.h.
Physics Research IV
(Prereqisite: PHYS 02.300 AND minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in physics. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

PHYS 02.430..........................................4 s.h.
Electricity and Magnetism I
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.201 or PHYS 02.203)
This course studies classical electromagnetism. Its topics include: the laws of electromagnetic force, Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic induction, interaction of currents, and electromagnetic energy and waves. This course may not be offered annually.

PHYS 02.431..........................................3 s.h.
Electricity and Magnetism II
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.310)
This course studies advanced applications of Maxwell's equations. For example, the generation of electromagnetic radiation and its propagation through matter will be discussed. The connection between Maxwell's equations and the special theory of relativity will be emphasized.

PHYS 02.440..........................................4 s.h.
Advanced Laboratory
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.300)
This course introduces modern experimental techniques commonly used in physics. Experimental results will be correlated with existing theories. Technical writing skills will be developed and evaluated.

PHYS 02.470........................................3–4 s.h.
Selected Topics in Advanced Physics
(Prerequisite: PHYS 02.300 or permission of instructor)
This course is aimed to expose students to advanced physics topics that are important for their career development and their involvement with faculty research. The topics include, but are not limited to, Solid State Physics, Atomic and Molecular Physics, Occupational Physics, Special Relativity, and Elementary Particles. One topic from the above list will be chosen each time the course is offered.

Astronomy (ASTR 11)

ASTR 11.120..........................................4 s.h.
Inroduction to Astronomy (Lecture and Lab)
This course is a descriptive study of the universe that emphasizes the physical concepts that explain astronomical phenomena. The evolutionary, structural, and dynamical aspects of the solar system, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and the entire universe are discussed. The laboratory experience has both quantitative and qualitative components that include outdoor observations of night sky objects, daytime solar observations, and computer simulations. There is occasional evening viewing outside of class.

ASTR 11.209........................................1–3 s.h.
Astronomy Research I
(Prereqisite: minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in astronomy. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

ASTR 11.212........................................1–3 s.h.
Astronomy Research II
(Prereqisite: minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in astronomy. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

ASTR 11.221..........................................3 s.h.
Exploration of the Solar System
In the study of planetary science, the students will explore geology, chemistry, physics, and astronomy in their applications to the composition, dynamics, atmospheres, surfaces, and magnetospheres of objects within the solar system. The search for life or conditions suitable for life in other parts of the solar system is a driving force of solar system exploration, thus biology is incorporated as well. This course will help the student develop skills necessary to discuss and write about science.

ASTR 11.231..........................................4 s.h.
Methods and Techniques in Modern Astronomy (Lecture and Lab)
(Prerequisites: MATH 01.122 or permission of instructor)
This course surveys current methods in modern astronomy research and education. The topics include, but are not limited to, modern telescopes (optical and radio), CCD cameras, astronomical data, imaging software, solar observing, and planetarium operation. Topics during a given term may be chosen around a theme of either research or education. This course features the use of precision instruments and quantitative methods. Evening observational projects, field trips, and oral presentations are part of this course.

ASTR 11.241..........................................4 s.h.
Astronomy and Astrophysics (Lecture and Lab)
(Prerequisites: MATH 01.130 or permission of instructor)
This course is an overview of astrophysics, with an emphasis on the relevant physics in modern astronomy. Topics include the solar system, properties of stars, stellar structure and evolution, supernovae, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, the Milky Way galaxy, star formation, interstellar medium, normal galaxies, active galaxies and quasars, and Big Bang cosmology. The relevant physics will be briefly presented in the course. This course is intended for students majoring in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, and engineering.

ASTR 11.312........................................1–3 s.h.
Astronomy Research III
(Prereqisite: PHYS 02.300 AND minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in astronomy. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

ASTR 11.412........................................1–3 s.h.
Astronomy Research IV
(Prereqisite: PHYS 02.300 AND minimum 3.0 GPA within major/minor AND permission of instructor)
This course introduces and/or develops modern research techniques used in astronomy. Research is performed in collaboration with one or more faculty in an area of specialization of the faculty. Emphasis will be placed on developing research skills, developing technical writing skills, and the development of skills needed for scientific presentations.

Earth Sciences (ASTR 17)

ASTR 17.110..........................................3 s.h.
Principles of Earth Science
This course examines the basic concepts of astronomy, meteorology, geology and the principles derived from those concepts.

Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology (ASTR 13)

ASTR 13.101..........................................4 s.h.
Meteorology
This course studies the basic principles of meteorology, acquainting students with the physical principles underlying weather phenomena. Students use weather instrumentation in weather observations and analyze weather maps and observe and record daily weather conditions.