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PHYSICS 130-3 : College Physics: Wave Phenomena and Modern Physics (College Physics: Wave Phenomena and Modern Physics)

Description

Overview of class:

Wave phenomena, optics, quantum physics and special topics. Credit 1 quarter -course. Algebra-based physics primarily for Biology majors and premedical students who do not need to take calculus-based physics.

Topics:

1. Waves in Elastic Medium
2. Sound Waves
3. Electromagnetic Waves
4. The Nature and Propagation of Light
5. Reflection and Refraction - Plane Waves and Plane Surfaces
6. Reflection and Refraction - Spherical Waves and Spherical Surfaces
7. Interference8. Diffraction
9. Gratings and Spectra
10. Polarization
11. Light and Quantum Physics
12. Waves and Particles
13. Special Relativity
14. Nuclear Physics

Laboratory Exercises:

1. Sound - Speed of sound is measured and standing wave patterns observed.
2. Snell\\\'s Law - the law of refraction is verified, and applications in optical fibers studied.
3. Geometric Optics - real and virtual objects and images are studied for convergent and divergent lenses.
4. Double Slit Diffraction - study of the diffraction and interference patterns for various double slits and grating.
5. Single Slit Diffraction - the study of the diffraction and interference patterns for various single slits and round apertures.
6. Intensity Distribution in a Diffraction Pattern - the intensity distribution of a single slit diffraction pattern is observed using a photo sensor array.
7. Intensity of polarized light.
8. Spectral Nature of Light- a grating spectrometer is used to study the light spectra from an incandescent source as well as the line spectra of several gases.

Teaching Method:

Each lecture will detail the physical phenomenon under consideration and its mathematical model will be presented. Example problems will be presented for these phenomena along with relevant classroom demonstrations. Additional examples are provided in the textbook. During the daily discussion period, the TA will demonstrate solutions to problems, answer questions about subject matter, and proctor a quiz.

Evaluation Method:

Quizzes (best 9 out of 10)=1/5
Midterm: 1/5
Final Exam=2/5
Laboratory=1/5

Class Materials (Required):

Physics by Giancoli, 7th ed, publisher- Pearson
3rd quarter lab manual by Stipes (available at Norris)
scientific calculator
.pdf viewer (Adobe Acrobat Reader or equivalent)
Laboratory Notebook (Quadrille ruled and permanent binding)
Blackboard Course Management: https://courses.northwestern.edu/webapps/login/

Prerequisite/Registration Requirements: algebra and trigonometry; Physics 130-1 and 130-2.

Additional Information:

Concurrent registration in PHYSICS 136 laboratory is required.

PLEASE NOTE: Registration for all summer classes is April 8, 2024 through June 16, 2024, even for classes that begin later in the summer.