We all appreciate knowing where we are going in our classes as well as in life though some are always more comfortable with ambiguity than others:) What follows is my articulation of the outcomes for this sequence as it relates to the topics which define the scope of our investigations. We will collectively examine many of the topics listed at the tail of this page and explore the underlying scientific concepts and "laws" at a mathematical level consistent with differential and integral calculus (MTH 251/252/253). The underlying mathematics for much of what we explore this term aligns with the study of differential equations from MTH 256. If you are taking MTH 256 at the same time you will notice many overlaps.

Outcomes+:

For each of these physics concepts and laws you will be able to:

    • Identify the symbols and constants which are used to express them.
    • Describe their qualitative meaning verbally, mathematically, and in writing.
    • Recognize their application to settings in our daily lives.
    • Apply them appropriately to settings drawn from daily life.
    • Use them successfully to predict or extrapolate the behavior of an object or system of objects.
    • Use graphical techniques to construct an equivalent alternative representation of the behavior of an object or system of objects.
    • Reinforce your understanding through written descriptions and explanations of your solution process.
    • Use them to estimate a reasonable expectation for some physical value based on your defensible evaluation of the physical parameters in the setting.
    • Integrate all of the above to construct a personal understanding of the relationship of this physics to the world around you.

Through activities that you complete for this class you will develop an awareness that learning and doing science is enhanced by:

    • developing strong conceptual understanding first.
    • exploring multiple modalities for expressing your understanding including mathematical, graphical, oral, and written.
    • constructing a personal understanding of the ideas and tools through practice and self reflection
    • seeking out, listening to, and reflecting on the the viewpoints of others
    • the use of simplified models that have value even when details are not all accounted for.
    • understanding science as a process and not an answer.

Physics Topics:

    • Simple Harmonic Behavior of physical and non physical systems
    • Harmonic waves - water, acoustic, seismic, and electromagnetic
    • Superposition of Waves - Standing Waves in linear structures and chambers
    • Superposition of Waves - Interference (two sources)
    • Geometric Optics
      • reflection and refraction
      • basic ray tracing techniques for determining image location
      • thin lens calculations
    • Optical Wave effects
      • polarization and color thin film interference and diffraction gratings
      • single slit diffraction - intensity and maxima
    • Fundamentals of relativity - postulate, length contraction, time dilation
    • Topics from 20th century (quantum, cosmology, solid state, astrophysics)*

* skills and expectations which are currently in development for curricular inclusion. May be only partially implemented at this time.

Lab Skills:

    • Demonstrate awareness of safety considerations in the use of a range of investigative equipment including both formal and informal apparatus.
    • Be able to structure a written document so as to effectively communicate:
      • the relevant physics in an experiment
      • the experimental processes
        • including data aquisition and presentation the experimental settings
        • including assembly and debugging the setup
      • the logical flow of data analysis with emphasis on analytic processes and graphical interpretation
      • conclusions drawn from the experiment that are supported by data experimental limitations and
      • directions for future inquiry to an audience of their physics peers (not their instructor)
    • Demonstrate the ability to use current technology to provide resources and enhance communication of physics ideas and experiments.
    • Demonstrate an independent ability to use scientific processes to investigate and illustrate a specific physical process.
    • To determine what experiments to perform and to successfully assess the meaning of the results.
    • To modify the experiment on the basis of initial tests to seek additional understanding of the phenomena.

+ The outcomes given here contain and extend the following General Science Outcomes articulated by COCC's Science Department. Upon completing this course a student will be able to:

    Gather, comprehend, and communicate scientific and technical information in order to explore ideas, models, and solutions and generate further questions;

    Apply scientific and technical modes of inquiry, individually, and collaboratively, to critically evaluate existing or alternative explanations, solve problems, and make evidence-based decisions in an ethical manner; and

    Assess the strengths and weaknesses of scientific studies and critically examine the influence of scientific and technical knowledge on human society and the environment.