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Course Descriptions
The following courses meet the Liberal Learning Natural Science requirements:
Introduction to Astronomy, Stellar Astronomy, Introduction to Geology, Advanced Geology, Introduction to Meteorology, Selected Principles of Physics, and General Physics I & II.
Courses with a three letter prefix have been transformed.
Physics | Astronomy | Geology | Meterology
Physics Courses
PHY 099 - ORIENTATION TO PHYSICS
1.0 Class Hours - 7 Weeks
(Every Fall)
Prerequisite: Completion of College Basic Skills Requirement
Required as an entry course of all freshmen and transfer students enrolled in majors offered by the Department of Physics. Topics covered include degree requirements, general information about the college and services offered, career opportunities in physics, academic standards and integrity, study habits, time management, and resume development. General and personal advisement relative to pursuit of the major and the degree is also included.
PHY 120 - INTRODUCTION TO GEOLOGY
3 Class Hours, 2 Laboratory Hours.
(Every Semester)
Prerequisite: Completion of College Basic Skills Requirements
Same as GEO 120 (Restricted to PHYT majors)
Geological concepts, principles, and processes as they relate to the relationship between people and their environment are emphasized. Topics include: minerals and rocks, components of the hydrologic cycle, dynamic earth processes, and regional studies.
PHY 121 - PRINCIPLES OF PHYSICS
3 Class Hours, 2 Laboratory Hours
(Every Fall)
Prerequisite: Completion of College Basic Skills Requirement
Centered around the basic laws of physics, emphasis is on a conceptual understanding of the natural world regarding concepts which comprise it and their connections and relationships to each other. Topics include force, motion, momentum, energy and gravitation. Laboratory emphasis is given through hands-on activities.
PHY 122 - SELECTED PRINCIPLES OF PHYSICS
3 Class Hours, 2 Laboratory Hours
(Occasionally)
Not for science or mathematics majors
Centered around selected principles related to the laws of physics. Emphasis is on a conceptual understanding of these topics as they relate to everyday life. Topics may include projectiles and satellite motion, air travel, alternative energy, wave motion, physics of sports, physics of automobiles, ballistics, photography, light, color, lenses and mirrors, eclipses, magnets, holograms, tides, radio and TV, rockets, electricity and physics of amusement parks.
PHY 161 - INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY
3 Class Hours and 2 Laboratory Hours
(Every Semester)
Prerequisite: Completion of College Basic Skills Requirement
Same as AST 161 (Restricted to PHYT majors)
Course Description: A study of the knowledge gained in our investigation of the universe, from an historical perspective. Topics included are the Earth and its motions; time and the calendar; the properties, origin, and evolution of (1) the solar system, and (2) stars and stellar systems, including galaxies; and cosmology. Laboratory sessions will involve an investigation of observable celestial phenomena, including the diurnal motions of the stars, the orbital motions of the planets, the phases of the Moon, and eclipses, through the use of interactive computer software, and the TCNJ planetarium and observatory facilities. Some nighttime observing is included.
PHY 171 - INTRODUCTION TO METEOROLOGY
3 Class Hours and 2 Laboratory Hours
(Fall Semester)
Prerequisite: Completion of College Basic Skills Requirement
Same as MET 171 (Restricted to PHYT majors)
Course Description: Basic weather processes and forecasting are emphasized. Topics include: the Earth-Sun System, Heat Balance, Moisture and Precipitation, Air Masses and Fronts, Storm Systems, Ocean Circulation, Climate, Atmospheric Optics, Air Pollution and Satellite Imagery.
PHY 201 - GENERAL PHYSICS I
3 class hours, 4 th hour, 2 lab hours
(Every Semester)
Pre or Corequisite : MAT 127
Calculus-based introductory physics, first course of a two semester sequence. Topics covered include motion, Newton 's Laws, Conservation principles, rotational motion and oscillatory behavior. Problem solving is an integral part of the course. Conceptual understanding is reinforced using interactive computer-based techniques, demonstrations, and laboratory experiences.
PHY 202 - GENERAL PHYSICS II
3 class hours, 4 th hour, 2 lab hours
(Every Semester)
Pre-requisite: PHY 201 and MAT 127
Calculus-based introductory course in electricity and magnetism, optics, and topics in modern physics. The important laws of physics in these areas and problem solving are emphasized. Problem solving is an integral part of the course. Conceptual understanding is reinforced using interactive computer-based techniques, demonstrations, and laboratory experiences.
GEO 220 - ADVANCED GEOLOGY
3 Class Hours and 2 Laboratory Hours.
(Spring - Alternate years)
Prerequisite: GOL 120 or PHY 120
This is a survey course with a focus on physical processes in the Earth Sciences. topics include: gravity and seismic techniques for investigating the subsurface (environmental geophysics); heat flow (geodynamics); groundwater flow )hydrogeology); ice-sheet dynamics (glaciology); and finite-element modeling (numerical methods).
PHY 261 – STELLAR ASTRONOMY
3 Class Hours, 2 Laboratory Hours
(Spring, alternate years)
Prerequisite: AST 161 or PHY 161
This course is a study of the knowledge gained from the investigation of the stellar universe, that is, what is beyond the solar system. This includes the properties, structure, and evolution of stars, star clusters, galaxies, and cosmology. An emphasis will be placed on the methodology employed by astrophysicists to investigate the stellar world.
Laboratory sessions will deal with the gleaning and analysis of observational data. The laboratory experiences are facilitated by the use of interactive computer software in the astronomy lab and the telescopic and other equipment of the TCNJ observatories, which are state-of-the-art.
PHY 306 - MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS
3 Lecture Hours
(Every Spring)
Prerequisites: PHY 202, MAT 128, CSC 215 or equivalent
A study of the mathematical methods necessary to solve a variety of physics problems. Predictions of physical theories are used to design new experimental techniques and observational methods. Students are exposed to a large variety of mathematical methods used by both experimental and theoretical physicists. Application of multiple integrals in curvilinear coordinates, vector calculus, Fourier analysis, matrices, complex numbers. Course also introduces the use of Mathematica® as an aid in solving problems numerically, symbolically and graphically.
PHY 311 - ANALOG AND DIGITAL ELECTRONICS
(3 Lecture hours and 3 Lab hours )
(Spring, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 202 or permission of instructor.
Fundamentals of analog and digital circuits. Topics in analog electronics include circuit analysis, alternating current circuits, transient signals, frequency filters, diodes, transistors, and op-amp circuits. Topics in digital electronics include logical networks, flip-flops, analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, microcomputers, and transducer applications. Laboratory activities are hands-on with intensive use of oscilloscopes, frequency generators, analog components, transducers, and robots. A robotics competition is a capstone experience for this course.
PHY 316 - BIOMEDICAL PHYSICS
3 Lecture Hours
(Spring, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 202
A study of physics that has medical and biological applications. Intended for physics and other majors who are adept at problem solving and are often interested not only in careers in physics, but also in medicine, biology, biophysics, or medical physics. Topics: electrical properties of nerve and muscle cells, conduction system of the heart, theory of electrocardiography, biomagnetism, brain waves, scattering, absorption, and emission of radiation, thermodynamics of living systems, medical use of x-rays, computed tomography (CT), PET scanners, nuclear physics and nuclear medicine, magnetic resonant imaging (MRI).
PHY 321 - MODERN PHYSICS
3 Lecture Hours, 3 Laboratory Hours
(Every Fall)
Prerequisite: PHY 202, MAT 128
Study of modern physics concepts pertaining to the microscopic universe, thereby giving the student a better understanding of the macroscopic universe. Fundamental concepts of modern physics are covered, including topics in special theory of relativity, wave-particle duality, quantization of energy, Schrödinger equation, potential wells, and atomic physics. Experimental basis for modern physics is also discussed.
PHY 390 - METHODS OF TEACHING SCIENCE
3 Lecture Hours
(Every Fall)
Research and presentations of topics relating to issues in modern science education with special emphasis on the first-year teacher. Topics include evolution of scientific concepts, presentations and evaluations of demonstrations, classroom management and techniques with an emphasis on preparation for Student Teaching.
PHY 391 - INDEPENDENT STUDY IN PHYSICS
(Every Semester)
Pre-requisite: Junior/Senior standing in physics, a 2.5 GPA overall, and permission of a faculty mentor and Department Chair.
The student in collaboration with a faculty member will study an advanced topic in physics or related fields.
PHY 393 - INDEPENDENT RESEARCH I IN PHYSICS
(Every Semester)
Pre-requisite: Junior standing in physics, a 2.5 GPA overall, and permission of a faculty sponsor and Department Chair.
The student in collaboration with a faculty member will complete an original research project. The outcomes of the research will be presented to faculty and peers in a scientific-talk style.
PHY 401 - CLASSICAL MECHANICS
3 class hours, 4th hour
(Fall, alternate years)
Prerequisite: PHY 202, PHY 306, CSC 215 or equivalent
Newtonian mechanics is studied rigorously using advanced mathematical and numerical techniques . Topics treated include kinematics, dynamics, harmonic oscillations, central forces, many particle systems, rigid bodies, Lagrangians, and Hamiltonians. Scientific programming is used extensively in problem solving.
PHYS 411 - OPTICS AND WAVE MOTION
(3 Class hours and 4 Lab hours every other week) 4 s.h.
(alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, PHY 321, CSC 215 or permission of instructor.
Course Description: A study of the properties of light and its interaction with matter. Topics include electromagnetic waves, Fresnel equations, propagation of light, geometrical optics, polarization, interference and diffraction, and quantum optics at an intermediate level. Laboratory work involves designing and completing experiments on refraction, lenses and mirrors, polarization, interferometry, diffraction, and holography.
PHY 413 - GENERAL RELATIVITY AND COSMOLOGY
3 Lecture Hours
(Occasionally)
Pre-requisite: PHY 306 or MAT 129
Modern formulation of Einstein's General Relativity. This course emphasizes field equations and the solutions applicable to astrophysical problems, including topics relating to black holes, gravitational lensing, and gravitational radiation. Additional topics include the dynamics of the universe - Standard Cosmology. The course provides a strong background suitable for higher studies in theoretical physics, astronomy, or mathematics.
PHY 416 - THERMODYNAMICS
3 Class Hours
(Offered in alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 202, PHY 306, and CSC 215 or equivalent
A study of the interrelationships between temperature, thermal energy, work, and entropy and the interactions of physical systems. The main topics covered are thermodynamic coordinates, equations of state, the laws of thermodynamics, adiabatic processes, heat engines, kinetic theory, and statistical thermodynamics.
PHY 421 - ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY I
3 Class Hours
(Fall, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, MAT 326, CSC 215 or equivalent, or permission of instructor
This course is devoted to the fundamentals of the electromagnetic fields. Topics to be addressed are: applications of Coulomb's Law, nature of te electric field, applications of Gauss' Law, potentials, conductors in electrostatic fields, energy of the electrostatic field, electric multipoles, dielectric theory, and special methods in electrostatics.
PHY 422 - ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY II
3 Class Hours
(Spring, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 421, or equivalent, or permission of instructor
A continuation of PHY 421 covering the solution of Laplace's equation, electric currents, Ampere's Law, magnetic induction, Faraday's Law, Maxwell's equations, and electromagnetic waves.
PHYS 426 - PARTICLE AND NUCLEAR PHYSICS
3 Class Hours
(Fall, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, PHY 321 and CSC 215 (or equivalent)
Fundamental concepts and applications of Particle and Nuclear Physics will be discussed, such as the standard model, the shell model of nuclei, accelerations, radioactivity, nuclear medicine, nuclear reactors and nuclear waste. Seminars, problem solving and computer projects are integral parts of the course.
PHYS 431 - Quantum Mechanics
3 Class Hours
(alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, PHY 321, CSC 215 or equivalent
Fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics and applications to problems in modern physics. Wave mechanics and wave mechanical properties of matter studied using the Schroedinger approach. Problem solving and computer projects are integral parts of the course.
PHY 436 - CONDENSED MATTER
3 Class Hours
(Occasionally)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, PHY 321, PHY 421
Fundamental concepts of condensed matter and applications to problems in current theoretical and applied physics are presented. Topics covered include crystal structure, lattice vibrations, phonons, thermal properties of matter, free electron theory of metals, band theory, semiconductors, superconductors, optical properties of solids, and magnetism. Problem solving and computer projects are integral parts of the course.
PHY 451 - EXPERIMENTAL AND ANALYTICAL PHYSICS
1 Lecture hour and 3 Lab Hours
(Spring, alternate years)
Prerequisites: PHY 306, PHY 321, CSC 215 or equivalent
This is a team taught course where students partake in experiments or projects of high caliber, comparable to actual research in the areas of expertise of the participating faculty. The course consists of 1 hour of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory per week. The lecture hour will be used to acquaint the students with the theory and principles of physics fundamental to the experiments to be done, and the methods to apply in analyzing the data. Some projects will involve collecting and analyzing data from the NASA data archives. Individual experiments may take more than 1 week to complete.
Students will be expected to devote a goodly amount of time every week analyzing the data, which may entail using computer software that they will develop, and compiling the results into a formal report equivalent to a paper to be submitted for publication in a journal. Emphasis will be given to in depth writing and a literature search. When appropriate, the papers will be presented and discussed at Departmental colloquia. The course is usually offered in the spring of every other year.
PHY 466 - ASTROPHYSICS
3 Class Hours
(Occasionally)
Prerequisites: PHY 321 and CSC 215 or equivalent
This course is a study of the knowledge gained from the investigation of the stellar universe and the physics applied thereto. This includes atomic structure, radiative processes, spectroscopy, thermostatistics of excitation and ionization equilibria, photometry, radiation transport, absorption, and scattering theory. Also covered are the principles of stellar structure and evolution; the structure and evolution of star clusters and galaxies, and cosmology. An emphasis will be placed on the methodology employed by astrophysicists to investigate the stellar world.
PHY 490 - STUDENT TEACHING IN PHYSICS
(Every Semester)
Prerequisites: PHY 390 and Meeting all criteria for admission to student teaching
Student teaching field experience is completed during the senior year under the direct supervision of a cooperating teacher in an approved public school district. General and content supervision is provided by college supervisors in the Department of Physics and School of Education, Secondary Education Department. Emphasis is on observation, participation, and responsible teaching.
PHY 493 - INDEPENDENT RESEARCH IN PHYSICS
(Every Semester)
Pre-requisite: Senior standing in physics, a 2.5 GPA overall, and permission of a faculty sponsor and Department Chair.
This writing-intensive experience will consist of the student, in collaboration with a faculty mentor, studying an advanced research topic. A scientific talk and written research-quality paper will be submitted to the department at the end of the semester.
