Physics for Scientists and Engineers 3

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to wave motion (with emphasis placed on the study of sound and electromagnetic wave phenomena), geometrical and wave optics, and selected elementary topics on special relativity and quantum mechanics. Central topics include mechanical and electromagnetic waves; geometric optics; interference and diffraction; relativistic kinematics and dynamics; and elementary quantum theory with atomic structure. Although the course emphasizes conceptual understanding, students also learn to apply mathematical techniques such as vector calculus, Fourier analysis, numerical approximations, and multi-variable integration to the solution of problems. The laboratory provides students with opportunities to learn and apply the scientific method through investigations of the phenomena discussed in lecture. The course is appropriate for students majoring in the physical sciences, engineering, mathematics, computer science, and related fields.