Modern Physics.

Catalog description

This is an introductory course on modern physics developed during the early twentieth century. There is a very large historical component outlining the key scientists (Einstein, Planck, Thomson, Compton, Rutherford, Bohr, Schrodinger, Heisenberg, and others) and their experiments that demonstrated the need for the classical theory of physics to be revised, as well as a quantitative component with many opportunities in applying these new revised theories for solving problems. Material mainly covered is the special theory of relativity and quantum mechanics. In addition to being an introductory course, students will also be better prepared after completion to handle the theoretical concepts and mathematics of a more advanced relativity or quantum mechanics course. (Fall) (Lecture 3 hours) Prerequisite PY2404, MT 2413 (All courses serving as prerequisites in the School of Science, Engineering and Technology must be completed with a “C” or better in order to advance to the next sequenced course.).