Physical Sciences Course Descriptions

An introduction to principles of Mechanics, Oscillations, and Acoustic Waves. Topics included are: Kinematics and Dynamics, Work, Energy, Momentum, Hydrostatics, Hydrodynamics, Elasticity, Simple Harmonic Oscillator, Elastic Waves, Superposition Principle, Interference and qualitative discussions of special relativity. Laboratory exercises are performed on the topics covered. Class hrs. 5; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisite: MATH 115 Precalculus. Corequisite: MATH 121 Calculus I. Offered fall semester.

An introduction to the principles of thermodynamics, kinetic theory of gases, electricity, magnetism, and optics. Topics included are: temperature, thermal expansion, calorimetry, heat transfer, laws of thermodynamics, electrostatics, Coulomb’s Law, electric field, Gauss’s Law, electric potential, capacitance, dielectrics, current resistance, and electromotive force, direct current circuits, magnetic field, inductance, alternating currents, electromagnetic waves, an introduction to the principles of geometrical and physical optics, quantum mechanics and atomic physics. Class hrs. 5; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisite: PHYSC 101B Engineering Physics I. Corequisite: MATH 122 Calculus II. Offered spring semester.

A study of mechanics, based on Newton’s Laws and the concepts of energy and momentum, with an emphasis on basic calculating skills. Class hrs. 3; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisites: MATH 115A Tech Math and MATH 110A College Algebra with Trigonometry, or equivalent. Offered fall and spring semesters.

A continuation of Tech Physics I, this course involves the study of heat, sound, and light. Topics covered include temperature, calorimetry, harmonic motion, acoustic phenomena, refraction, mirrors, and lenses. Class hrs. 3; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisite: PHYSC 107A Tech Physics I. Offered fall and spring semesters.

A study of the physical principles relevant to the telecommunications field. This course teaches problem-solving techniques in basic mechanics and optics. It also covers, with a more qualitative approach, the subjects of thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Class hrs. 4.

Provides the non-science student with an opportunity to explore the ever more important role of science and technology in contemporary society, presented in a nonmathematical context. Emphasis is placed on discussion, and an examination of scientific issues in today’s world. A historical and philosophical foundation is provided. The use of feature films demonstrating the changing view of science and scientists by the media and as a vehicle for dramatizing critical social/scientific issues is an important component of the course. Class hrs. 3. No lab. Offered every semester and summer.

An introduction to the principles of mechanics and heat. Topics included are: kinematics, Newton’s Laws of Motion, gravity, projectile motion, work, energy, momentum, heat, temperature, and thermodynamics. Comprehension of the basic principles of physics and their application to problem solving is stressed. Algebra and trigonometry are used extensively. Laboratory experiments are performed on the topics covered. Class hrs. 3; Recitation hrs. 1; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisite: MATH 110A College Algebra with Trigonometry or equivalent. Offered fall and summer semesters.

A continuation of College Physics I. Topics included are: electricity, magnetism, vibration, waves, sound, light, optics, and selected topics in modern physics. Laboratory work is done on the topics covered. Class hrs. 3; Recitation hrs. 1; Lab hrs. 2. Prerequisite: PHYSC 123 College Physics I or equivalent. Offered spring and summer semesters.

Provides non-science majors with an understanding and knowledge of the planet we inhabit. Topics covered include the earth’s environment and resources, seasons, oceans, and continents. Dynamic earth processes such as weathering, glaciation, running water, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and continental drift are examined. Class hrs. 3; Lab hrs. 2.

A course for the non-science major designed to introduce the student to elements of weather, meteorology, and weather forecasting with a non-mathematical approach. Topics include radiation and heating of the atmosphere, forces and wind, the general circulation, moisture and stability, fronts and cyclones. The student is introduced to basic forecast methods utilizing charts, data, radar, and satellite imagery. Contemporary topics of global warming, ozone depletion, air pollution, and El Niño are also addressed. Class hrs. 3; Lab hrs. 2. Not offered every semester.

An introduction to the fundamentals of astronomy for the non-science major. The course examines how we have learned about the structure and organization of the universe through observation and experimentation. Emphasis is placed on stars, galaxies and cosmology. Other topics include appearance and motions of the sun, moon, and stars, the nature of light and gravity, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The course includes a planetarium activity, computer simulations and hands-on investigations. Class hrs. 3; Lab hrs. 2.

Physical systems and landforms of the earth are studied. Climate, weather, geomorphology, plate tectonics and earth processes, and map reading are covered. A comparative study is made of the integrated use of resources and land, including climactic borders. Class hrs. 3;