Physics

This is a one-semester course, covering time-independent and time-dependent properties of electric and magnetic fields leading to the vector calculus formulation of Maxwell's Equations and the derivation of electro-magnetic waves in vacuo and in media. On completion of this course, the student is able to: state the integral laws of electromagnetism and state and derive Maxwell's equations; formulate and solve with vector calculus problems of static and time-varying electrical and magnetic field including utilization of the electric scalar potential and the magnetic vector potential; derive and apply the concepts of: Maxwell's displacement current, the continuity equation, self- and mutual inductance, Poynting's vector, energy flux, and radiation pressure; define and explain: polarization and magnetization, the fields D, H, E and B, the relation between E, B and the force on a particle, polarization charges and magnetization currents, boundary conditions on fields at interfaces between media, and Maxwell's equations in media.

In this course, students get a solid knowledge of Lagrange and Hamilton formulations of classical mechanics with connections to field theory and relativity. The course contains the following: the variation principle and Lagrange's equations; Hamilton's principle; the central force problem with two bodies; motion of rigid bodies; small oscillations; Lagrange formulation of special relativity; Hamilton formalism; Canonical transformations; the Hamilton-Jacobi equation and Poisson brackets; Perturbation theory; and continuous systems and fields.

This is an introductory course in Quantum Mechanics. It starts with a brief historical background and discuss the basic ideas and postulates of quantum theory. Schrödingers wave equation are then introduced and students learn how to solve it for potentials in one dimension, such as wells and barriers. This is followed by concepts and formalism of operators, observables and measurements in quantum mechanics. The course ends by discussing the quantum model for an harmonic oscillator and introducing the hydrogen atom as a basic example of "round," three dimensional quantum mechanics.

This is a calculus-based physics course with a laboratory component for international summer students. This is the second 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.