General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics

Catalog description

Calculus-based study of the basic concepts of fluids and sound, heat, kinetic theory, and entropy. PHYS 213 General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics (2) (GN)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. Calculus-based introduction to the basic concepts of fluids and sound, heat, kinetic theory, and entropy, including such topics as: fluid mechanics and motion, sound Waves: speed, harmonic waves, intensity, temperature and heat: thermal expansion, heat capacity, conduction and radiation, kinetic theory of gases: First Law of Thermodynamics, internal energy of a gas, heat capacities, adiabatic expansion, entropy and the Second Law: concept of equilibrium and entropy, heat engines, efficiency of heat engines and refrigerators, introduction to statistical mechanics.This course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the elementary physics principles mentioned above, as well as their applications, and to enhance their conceptual understanding of physical laws. The exact model of course instruction varies at different campuses due to different resources and class sizes. Students attend several class meetings including at least one lab or activity period per week. Use of a combination of computer-based and traditional lab exercises is expected and collaborative learning exercises will be used in small class settings. The introduction of data acquisition and analysis methods (often making use of modern computer tools) will be stressed in the laboratory/activity period. Course evaluation is based on a combination assessments such as homework, quizzes, lab reports, midterm and final exams, and other evaluative tools.The course is an important prerequisite for later work in many science and engineering disciplines.