This course presents a topical introduction to the key principles and concepts of physics in the context of the world events and natural phenomena that confront world leaders and that require informed decisions and responses. Energy, health, counter-terrorism, remote sensing, space programs, nuclear proliferation, and a host of other modern challenges have technological and scientific dimensions, the understanding of which is essential to avoiding disastrous policy decisions. This course considers the application of physics to these societal challenges. The material is covered at a level and pace that a future world leader should be able to handle; the emphasis is on the development of physical reasoning skills, and not on detailed, mathematical problem solving.

A study of astronomy beginning with its historical roots and leading to our current understanding of the sun and other components of the solar system, stars, galaxies and the universe. Students study the night sky and methods used by astronomers. Lecture and laboratory. Some evening laboratories are required.

A study of the people and ideas that have shaped our current view and understanding of the cosmos. Topics will include: astronomy of ancient civilizations, the development of the Copernican solar system, the size of the galaxy and the cosmological distance ladder, relativity and black holes, Hubble and the expanding universe, big-bang cosmology and the history of the early universe, exotic particles, funny energy, and the fate of the universe, current and future space science missions and the search for extra-solar planets and intelligent life.

This course covers fundamental physical principles including descriptions of mechanical, electrical, wave and atomic phenomena. The course highlights ways in which physical principles are used to describe and understand the vast array of observable phenomena in the universe. Students will study applications of physics to a range of important historical and contemporary scientific and technological questions. This course is intended for potential physics majors or students planning further study in the physical sciences. Lecture and Laboratory.

A course of variable content on issues not covered in other courses in the department with a focus on issues that are of current interest to the physics community.

An introduction to physics in which no prior training in physics or chemistry is required. The study of mechanics, heat, and sound. Lecture and laboratory.

A study of electricity and magnetism, light and atomic physics. Lecture and laboratory.

An introduction to mechanics, heat, and sound, requiring the use of calculus. Lecture and laboratory.

An introduction to electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics; requires the use of calculus. Lecture and laboratory.

A study of waves in all their aspects, leading to the development of modern physics in the early 20th century. Topics include vibrations, wave phenomena in media, optics and electromagnetism, relativity, quanta, and wave-particle duality. Quantum mechanics is introduced and applied to atoms and crystalline solids. Nuclear properties and radioactivity may also be also discussed. Mathematical and physical tools essential for upper-level physics courses will be developed.

A study of differential equations, partial differential equations, multiple integration, Laplace transforms, Fourier transforms, and vector analysis. Most spring semesters.

Addresses optical phenomena across the electromagnetic spectrum. Topics include propagation of light, lenses and mirrors, and optical systems. Optics suitable for IR, Visible, UV, and X-ray regimes will be considered.

Study of the principles of operation of thermionic and solid state devices and their function. Topics from both analog (electronic components, power supplies, amplifiers) and digital circuits (Boolean algebra, logic gauges, de-multiplexers, shift registers) will be covered. Lecture and laboratory.

Study of particle dynamics in inertial and accelerated reference frames, gravitational potential, motion in a central force field and an introduction to Lagrangian methods.

A study of the thermodynamic concepts used to describe the macroscopic properties and behavior of systems; namely, temperature, internal energy and entropy, and the relationship of these to microscopic behavior of systems as developed through statistical mechanics.

Enables the student to explore a possible physics career and to work in an individual, academically-oriented position designed to supplement or complement the student's academic experience. All field placements require faculty supervision and regular meetings between the student and the instructor.

An internship enables students to gain practical experience in physics. Such internships are longer in duration than field placements. All internships require faculty supervision and regular meetings between the student and the instructor.

Work on a research topic under the supervision of staff members. Students learn the research techniques and presentation skills necessary to successfully complete a senior thesis in physics. Seminar is required of all senior physics students. Students may not receive credit more than once.

A course of variable content on topics not covered in other courses offered by the department. Topics include biophysics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, fluid mechanics, and relativity.

Engage in physics research under the supervision of staff members, complete a senior thesis in physics, and present thesis to an audience of faculty and students. This course is required of all senior physics students. Spring Semester.

Covers key elements of the field of astrophysics. Topical areas may include stellar structure and evolution, introduction to general relativity, cosmology, and particle astrophysics.

Covers the observational research used by astrophysicists to study the universe. Students will conduct observing projects using equipment at Carthage, Yerkes Observatory, and other facilities. Observational techniques include imaging, image analysis and other methods appropriate to student projects. Lecture and laboratory.

A study of the principles of quantum mechanics. Schroedinger theory and operator algebra are applied to the study of such problems as potential wells and barriers, tunneling, the harmonic oscillator and the hydrogen atom.

The study of the electric and magnetic effects of charges and currents leading to a presentation of Maxwell's equations and including such topics as electrostatic fields, electrostatic and magnetic energy, and potential theory.

An opportunity for students to conduct original research in physics. Suitable topics are those which require substantial library and/or laboratory research, reading, and in-depth study.

Students should register for PHY 4990 during the semester that they plan to complete their senior thesis.