List of Modules


Physics 221 introduces students to the basic principles of mechanics (kinematics, Newton's Law, energy and momentum, rotation and oscillation) and wave motion.  After successfully completing this course students will have acquired the fundamental knowledge to understand various physical phenomena and their basis for practical applications.  They will be able to apply mathematics (vectors, algebra, trigonometry) to describe and analyze physical properties and they will have practiced discussing physics with classmates through active participation in the course.
Physics often serves as a support course for students studying in another program.  Physics 221 teaches students to look for the physical principles that underlie complex technical and biological phenomena and to spot misleading claims that defy the laws of physics.
The laboratory component is especially important.  The experiments combine many different skills and concepts and expose the students to the experimental basis of physics.  Students acquire skills in planning and performing experiments, in analyzing experimental data and in estimating experimental uncertainties.