Undergraduate Course Atlas
Fall Semester 2007
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For more information, contact the Undergraduate Program Coodinator
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PHYSICS 115:
Introductory Astronomy |
| Malko |
TTh |
8:30 - 9:45 AM |
MAX: 58 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
| Bajaj |
TTh |
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM |
MAX: 58 |
Credit:
4 Hours |
Content: A descriptive overview
of astronomy. Topics covered include the celestial coordinate
system, time keeping, constellations, ancient astronomy,
the planetary system, the sun, stellar evolution, neutron
stars, black holes, galactic astronomy, cosmology and
the origin of the Universe.
Audience: Only a minimal mathematical
ability is required. Students who have completed or
who are enrolled in Physics 116 may
not enroll in Physics 115.
Particulars: There will be three
in-class exams and a final comprehensive exam.
| Texts: |
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| Malko |
The Essential Cosmic Perspective, 3rd ed. (2002), Bennett, et al. |
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The Night Sky 30-40 deg. North (Planisphere), Chandler |
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| Bajaj |
Discovering the Universe, 6th ed. (2002), Comins and Kaufmann |
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The Edmund Mag 5 Star Atlas (recommended) |
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The New Patterns in the Sky, Staal (recommended) |
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PHYSICS 116:
Introductory Astronomy, with Laboratory |
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Williamon 000
Williamon 001
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TTh
TTh
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10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
11:30 AM - 12:45 AM
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MAX: 38
MAX: 38
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Credit: 4 Hours
Credit: 4 Hours
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Lab Sections:
LA1
LB1
LC1
LD1
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M
Tu
W
Th
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7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
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MAX: 19
MAX: 19
MAX: 19
MAX: 19
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Content: A descriptive astronomy
course with laboratory. Topics covered include celestial
mechanics, light and telescopes, the solar system, the
Sun, stellar evolution, black holes, galaxies, and the
origin and fate of the Universe.
Audience: Only a minimal mathematical
ability is required. Students who have completed or
who are enrolled in Physics 115 may
not enroll in Physics 116.
Particulars: There will be three
in-class exams and a final comprehensive exam. There
is one 3-hour lab session, held weekly, which requires registration.
| Texts: |
The Essential Cosmic Perspective, 4th ed (2007), Bennett et al |
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The Edmund Mag 5 Star Atlas |
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The New Patterns in the Sky, Staal (recommended) |
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Astronomy
Laboratory Manual (Emory) |
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PHYSICS 121: How Things Work I |
| Rao |
TTh |
2:30 - 3:45 PM |
MAX: 45 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: This course explores the connection between science and the world in which we live. It conveys an understanding and appreciation for science by finding physics concepts and principles within the familiar objects of everyday experience such as baseball bats, automobiles, copying machines, audio players, lasers and many more. We will see that most of our world is predictable rather than magical. We will find that a few simple laws allow us to understand some quite complicated things, and that technical complexity need not be intimidating.
Audience: This course is especially appropriate for non-science majors with some curiosity about how things work.
Particulars: Mid-term exam, a final exam, and a term paper.
| Text: |
How Things Work: The Physics of Everyday Life, Bloomfield |
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PHYSICS 141:
Introductory Physics I, with Laboratory |
| Coleman 000 |
MWF |
8:30 AM - 9:20 AM |
Credit: 4 Hours |
| TBA 001 |
MWF |
9:35 AM - 10:25 AM |
Credit: 4 Hours |
TBA 002 |
MWF |
10:40 AM - 11:30 AM |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Perkowitz 003 |
TTh |
11:30 AM - 12:45 PM |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: Introduction to classical
mechanics and thermodynamics. Physics 141 is the first
course of a two-semester non-calculus introductory physics
sequence.
Audience: The student is expected
to be competent in algebra, trigonometry, and plane
geometry. Physics 141 and 142
are appropriate courses to satisfy a one-year physics
requirement of various professional schools. Students
who expect to pursue a BS degree in mathematics or one
of the sciences should seriously consider Physics
151.
Particulars: There is one three-hour
laboratory
 each week which requires
registration as a related component.
| Texts: |
TBA, and PRS RF clicker. |
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Physics
141-142 Laboratory Manual, Emory University
Physics Department |
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PHYSICS 151:
General Physics: Mechanics with Laboratory |
| Rasnik |
MWF |
11:45 - 12:35 PM |
MAX: 72 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: Introduction to classical
mechanics and thermodynamics. Differential and integral
calculus are employed from the beginning and more advanced
mathematical techniques are introduced throughout the
course. Physics 151 is the first course of a two-semester
introductory physics sequence.
Audience:
Physics 151 and 152
are strongly recommended for students who contemplate
the completion of a BS degree in science or mathematics,
or who plan to pursue graduate studies in the sciences
or engineering. If you have AP credit in physics and
are considering majoring in physics, please contact
the instructor for advice.
Prerequisites:
Mathematics 112, 112S or 112Z (may be taken concurrently).
Particulars:
There is one three-hour laboratory each week. |
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PHYSICS 190: Freshman Seminar: Einstein's Space-Time |
| Rao |
MWF |
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM |
MAX: 16 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: An introductory study of Einstein's contributions with emphasis on space-time, special relativity, general relativity, gravitation, black holes, time travel, and cosmology and their relation to current philosophical problems. The topics include a review of the pre-Einstein notions about space and time.
Audience: Freshman only. Permission of Dean Brown required prior to enrollment.
Particulars:Seminar discussion format; journal writing, brief quizzes, a mid-term exam, and a term paper
| Texts: |
Simply Einstein: Relativity Demystified, Wolfson. |
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Flatland, Abbott. |
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A Briefer History of Time, Hawking. |
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PHYSICS 190: Freshman Seminar-- From Sand to Supercomputers: the Story of the Information Revolution |
| Bajaj |
TTh |
11:30- 12:45 PM |
MAX: 15 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content:The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the developments in materials science and technology that have led to the so-called information revolution. A qualitative description of the basic properties of semiconductors, and of the operating characteristics of electronic devices, and of the systems based on these devices, will be presented. The course will also address the revolutionary impact of information technology on economic, military, social, cultural, ethical and global aspects of modern life. Especially appropriate for non-scientists who want to discuss the technological basis of the information age with minimal mathematics and for science majors who want to broaden their background.
Audience: Freshman
only. Permission of Dean Brown required prior to
enrollment.
Particulars: Seminar discussion format; brief quizzes, a mid-term exam, and a final term paper.
| Texts: |
The Quantum Dot: A Journey into the Future of Microelectronics, Richard Turton. |
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PHYSICS 190H: Freshman Seminar: Envisioning Light
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| Perkowitz |
TTh |
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM |
MAX: 15 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: A course about understanding light and vision from the scientific and human viewpoints. Especially appropriate for non-scientists who want to discuss some important ideas with minimal mathematics, and for science majors who want to broaden their background. Early theories of light; light in culture and art; how the eyes and brain interpret light; the beginning (Big Bang) and the end (Big Crunch) of light; light in quantum theory and the theory of relativity; illumination, optical devices, and the 21st-century technology of light.
Audience: Freshman only. Permission of Dean Brown required prior to enrollment.
Particulars: Seminar discussion format; brief quizzes, a mid-term exam, and a term paper. Special features include guest discussion leaders and class demonstrations.
| Texts: |
Empire of Light (paperback), Perkowitz; additional readings |
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PHYSICS 211: Multivariable Calculus |
(Crosslisted as Mathematics
211P)
Content:
This section of Math 211 is designed to meet the needs of physics majors, but math majors and others with strong interest are welcome. Topics include vectors and 3-space, functions of several variables, parametrized curves, vector fields, line integrals, surfaces, gradients, partial derivatives, multiple integrals in various coordinate systems, conservative fields, circulation, flux, Stokes' Theorem. Optimization (for economics) will not be covered.
Prerequisites:
Mathematics 112, 112s, or 112Z.
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PHYSICS 234: Digital Electronics & Microprocessors, with
Laboratory |
TPL
|
| DuVarney |
TTh |
10:00 - 11:15 AM |
MAX: 18 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content:
An introduction to combinational and sequential logic
circuits, and microprocessor hardware. Topics include
transistors, gates, flip-flops, counters, clocks, decoders,
displays, microprocessors (internal architecture and
programming), memory, input/output circuits, and device
interfacing. The course places great emphasis on hands-on
experience. This is a Theory-Practice
Learning course.
Prerequisite:
Physics 142 or 152.
Particulars: A mid-term and
a final exam project. |
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PHYSICS 253:
Modern Physics, with Laboratory |
| Brody |
TTh |
11:30 AM - 12:45 PM |
MAX: 27 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content: Particle-like properties
of electromagnetic radiation, wave-like properties of
particles, Schrödinger equation and wave mechanics,
hydrogen atom, many-electron atoms, nuclear structure
and radioactivity, and the special theory of relativity.
Prerequisites: Physics
142 or 152, and
Mathematics
112 or the equivalent.
Particulars: Three tests and
one final examination, and weekly homework assignments.
There is a three-hour laboratory each week (Monday or
Thursday, 2:30-5:30PM). |
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PHYSICS 320:
Mathematical Methods for Scientists |
| Hentschel |
MWF |
11:45 AM - 12:35 PM |
MAX: 20 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content:
An advanced mathematical methods course designed for majors in the natural sciences, emphasizing techniques and applications. Topics include complex variables, Fourier series, ordinary differential equations, calculus of variations, special functions, integral transforms, and partial differential equations.
Prerequisites:
Physics 142 or 152
and Mathematics
211 and 212,
or consent of instructor.
| Texts: |
Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, M.L. Boas, ISBN 0-471-19826-9 |
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PHYSICS 361:
Analytical Mechanics I |
| Family |
TTh |
10:00 AM - 11:15 AM |
MAX: 20 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content:
A deeper mathematical and philosophical treatment of
classical mechanics, which will also provide experience
in reasoning from fundamental principles, and familiarity
with some important mathematical techniques. Topics
to be covered include vector analysis; conservation
laws; rocket motion; central forces and planetary motion;
rotations; oscillating systems; scattering problems;
variational principles; Lagrangians; and relativistic
kinematics.
Audience:
Required for Physics BS and Applied Physics BS majors.
Physics BA majors may take Physics 361 (in which case
they must also take Physics
365: Electromagnetic Fields I) or they can instead
take Physics 254: Classical
Physics (spring semester).
Prerequisites:
Physics 152 and Mathematics
211, or consent of instructor.
Text: Classical Mechanics, John R. Taylor |
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PHYSICS 397R:
Directed Study |
| Faculty |
TBA |
TBA |
MAX: 16 |
Credit: 1 - 12 Hours |
Content:
Varies.
Prerequisite: Consent
of instructor.
Particulars:
Adapted to the particular needs of individual students,
with the instructor acting as advisor. |
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PHYSICS 397R 00P: Directed Study for INSPIRE |
| Segre |
Th |
4:00 - 5:15PM |
MAX: NA |
Credit: 1 Hour |
Content: General introduction to scientific research. This course will introduce the students to the numerous areas of scientific research conducted in the Emory physics department as well as give an overview of how modern science is carried out. The students will participate in in-depth tours of active research laboratories, covering diverse fields, in the physics department. In the classroom, we will also discuss topics related to science research in general, including the hprocess of publishing and presenting scientific results, science ethics and some current science issues "in the news."
Audience: For students participaing in the INSPIRE Program.
Prerequisite: Consent
of instructor.
Text: Class notes and science articles from the instructor. |
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PHYSICS 421: Thermal Physics |
| Family |
TTh |
11:30 AM - 12:45 PM |
MAX: 20 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Content:
Entropy, temperature, free energy, statistical mechanics,
Gibbs ensembles, partition function, ideal gas, Fermi
and Bose gases, principles of classical thermodynamics,
Carnot Theorem, phase transitions, and kinetic theory
of gases.
Prerequisites:
Physics 253, or consent of instructor.
Text:
Thermal Physics, 2nd ed., Kittle and Kroemer
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PHYSICS 444WR:
Advanced Undergraduate Laboratory |
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| Segre |
Lecture |
Tu |
2:30 - 5:30 PM |
MAX: 10 |
Credit: 4 Hours |
| Brody |
Lab |
Wed |
2:30 - 5:30 PM |
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Content: Modern experimental
techniques and hands-on laboratory projects, including semiconductor device physics, chaos in electronics, X-ray crystallography, and astronomical photometry.
Prerequisite: Physics
253 AND consent of the instructor.
Particulars: Each student will complete written reports for at least three experimental projects. All students must register for both Tu 2:30-5:30 and Wed 2:30-5:30 PM.
| Texts: |
Student Manual for the Art of Electronics |
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PHYSICS 495:
Honors Research |
| Faculty |
TBA |
TBA |
MAX: NA |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Audience: For students
participating in the College Honors Program.
Prerequisite: Consent of the
undergraduate physics advisor. Independent research
for students invited to participate in the Physics Department's
Honors Program. |
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PHYSICS 495WR:
Honors Research |
| Faculty |
TBA |
TBA |
MAX: NA |
Credit: 4 Hours |
Audience: For students participating
in the College Honors Program.
Prerequisite: Consent of honors
research advisor.
Content: Final semester of independant
research for students invited to participate in Physics
Department Honors Program. WR is satisfied by acceptance
of completed honors thesis. |
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PHYSICS 499R:
Undergraduate Research |
| Faculty |
TBA |
TBA |
MAX: 20 |
Credit: 1 - 12 Hours |
Audience: For students
who wish to participate in physics research with the
instructor acting as research director.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
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