Physics

This is a calculus-based physics course with a laboratory component for international summer students. This is the first of a two-course sequence. This intensive course introduces fundamental concepts of physics in the areas of: dynamics & relativity; fluids, waves & sound; heat & thermodynamics; and geometrical & wave optics as a foundation for more advanced studies in Physics and applications in other areas of science. Competence in calculus as well as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry is essential.  This course provides a solid understanding of main physics topics and introduces methods of experimental physics. It provides a good foundation of basic physics for aspiring Physicists as well as being applicable to other areas of science and technology. 

The course examines the fundamental principles and concepts of physics. Topics include Newtonian Mechanics, Wave Mechanics, and Thermodynamics. Professor combines lectures with interactive in-class exercises. This is the first semester of a two-semester sequence in Introductory Physics for science majors.

This course presents an understanding of how the complexity of matter has evolved from its simplest forms during Big Bang to the rise of intelligent life that is capable of understanding its own place in this fabulous development. Topics include the formation of the elements during Big Bang, supernovae, and red giants; dust formation, stellar winds, and the re-circulation of cosmic material; the formation of the solar system; planets around other stars; the physical-chemical basis for life; the rise and development of life on the Earth; conditions for finding life beyond Earth; and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

This is an introductory-level course, giving an overview of a range of topics, including thermal physics, waves, elementary quantum mechanics, properties of matter, nuclear and particle physics, and astrophysics. The course is designed for those with qualifications in physics and mathematics at SCE Higher level or equivalent. It serves both as a preparation for further study in physics-based degree courses, and as a stand-alone course for students of other disciplines, including (but not limited to) mathematics, chemistry, computer science and engineering. The course includes an experimental laboratory element, Experimental Physics 1.

This course covers scientific laboratory techniques and the underlying physical principles of natural phenomena. Each class focuses on a particular experiment described in the lab manual, Laboratory Experiments in Physics. This is a one-credit hour class that meets almost once a week for about three hours.