Understanding Natural World

Catalog description

This course offers the non-science major an opportunity to explore how physics impacts everyday life. Topics will vary depending upon the interests of the class, but may include: the physics of sports, why musical instruments sound different from each other, rainbows and other optical phenomena, the physics of toys, Einstein's theory of relativity, and how a laser works. Although mathematics will not be the focus of the course, a working knowledge of algebra, geometry, and simple trigonometry is necessary. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and scientific observation skills.