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2012-13 Undergraduate Index A-Z
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Physics [clear]
| Title | Offering | Standing | Credits | Credits | When | F | W | S | Su | Description | Preparatory | Faculty | Days | Multiple Standings | Start Quarters | Open Quarters |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Rebecca Chamberlain and Richard Miles
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day and Evening | S 13Spring | This interdisciplinary program will combine science and humanities, as we learn beginning to intermediate astronomy through lectures, discussions, interactive workshops, and observation. We will use naked eyes, binoculars, and telescopes. We will learn about the evolution and structure of our universe and celestial bodies. How are stars born and why do they shine? How do stars die, and how can they contribute to new life? How do we know there is dark matter? How do we know that the universe is expanding - and even accelerating? What evidence is there for the Big Bang? We will study roles of science and of storytelling in human searches for understanding and meaning.How have people across cultures and throughout history understood, modeled, and ordered the universe they perceive? From sacred stories to physics-based astronomy, we will explore a variety of cosmological concepts in science, literature, mythology, philosophy, history and/or archaeoastronomy. We will use scientific methods and other inquiry-based learning strategies that engage the imagination. Through readings, lectures, films, workshops, and discussions, participants will deepen their understanding of astronomy, and they will refine their understanding of the role that cosmology plays in our lives through the stories we tell, the observations we make, and the questions we ask. We will develop skills and appreciation for the ways we find our place in the universe through stories and science, imagination and intellect, qualitative and quantitative processes. Finally we will ask, how does our understanding of astronomy and cosmologies influence our understanding of sustainability and the quality of life on Earth?We will work together as a learning community, in large and small groups. We will read and discuss science texts and do quantitative workshops and homework. Students will build and take home astronomical tools such as spectrometers and position finders. Students will analyze literary works related to astronomy and cosmology, and will develop an original piece of writing, either fiction or non-fiction. We will also share star stories from different cultures. Student teams will meet for pre-seminar discussions and assignments and will write short essays and responses to peers' essays. Research teams will explore questions of personal interest through observations, readings and calculations; and students will share their findings through presentations to classmates and the community. Students are invited to help organize observation field trips to eastern Washington or other regions with clearer skies. | Rebecca Chamberlain Richard Miles | Tue Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
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John Schaub
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 8 | 08 | Day | Su 13Summer Session I | This algebra-based physics course introduces fundamental topics in physics including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, and conservation laws. We will focus on both conceptual understanding and problem solving. We will also do one lab each week. The course will provide a solid foundation for those working toward careers in medicine, engineering, or the physical sciences. Students who need a full year of college physics will be able to continue their study in the second session through contracts. | John Schaub | Mon Tue Wed Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Summer | Summer | ||||
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Brian Walter, Gary Howell and John Schaub
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Close observation of the natural world reveals a high degree of underlying order. One of the ways scientists understand and explain this order is using the language of mathematics. Indeed, the degree to which the universe lends itself to a mathematical description is remarkable. The goal of this advanced program is to introduce the mathematical language and methods we use to describe and create physical models of our world. To that end, we will examine a number of key physical theories and systematically develop the mathematical tools that we need to understand them.We will begin, in fall quarter, with a detailed study of classical mechanics--the mathematical description of the clockwork universe envisioned by Newton and others who followed him. We will focus initially on linear approximations for which analytical solutions are possible. The mathematical methods we will learn for this purpose include differential equations, vector calculus and linear algebra. In winter quarter we will move beyond linear approximations and study non-linear systems and chaos and the implications of these ideas for the determinism implied by classical mechanics. We will also consider electrodynamics, the theory that governs the interactions between charged particles, and extend our study to the realm of the very fast by considering Einstein's theories of special and general relativity. We will continue our study of vector calculus and partial differential equations to develop these ideas. In spring quarter we will explore modern physics and quantum theory, which describe physics at the atomic scale. In support of this work we will continue to study boundary value problems and partial differential equations.The work in this program will consist of lectures, tutorials, group workshops, student presentations, computer labs and seminars on the philosophy and history of mathematics and physics, current topics in physics, and mathematics and physics in literature and writing. | mathematics, physics, chemistry and education. | Brian Walter Gary Howell John Schaub | Mon Tue Wed Thu | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |
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Mario Gadea
Signature Required:
Winter Spring
|
Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | 8 | 08 | Evening | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Physics is concerned with the basic principles of the universe. It is the foundation on which engineering, technology, and other sciences are based. The science of physics has developed out of the efforts of men and women to explain our physical environment. These efforts have been so successful that the laws of physics now encompass a remarkable variety of phenomena. One of the exciting features of physics is its capacity for predicting how nature will behave in one situation on the basis of experimental data obtained in another situation. In this program we will begin the process of understanding the underlying order of the physical world by modeling physical systems using both the analytical tools of calculus and the numerical tools provided by digital computers. We will also have significant hands-on laboratory experience to make predictions and explore some of these models. In this thematically-integrated program, students will cover a full year of calculus and algebra-based physics through small-group discussions, interactive lectures, and hands-on laboratory investigations. In physics, we will learn about motion, energy, models, and the process for constructing them. Through our study of calculus, we will learn how to analyze these models mathematically. We will study some of Galileo's significant contributions to classical mechanics, Kepler's astronomical observations, Newton's work on calculus and laws of motion, Euler's applications of calculus to the study of real-life problems in physics (magnetism, optics and acoustics), Maxwell's development of the unified theory of magnetism, Einstein’s relativity, and many others. This program will cover many of the traditional topics of both a first-year calculus sequence and a first-year physics sequence. Covering these topics together allows for the many connections between them to be reinforced while helping make clear the value of each. | Mario Gadea | Tue Thu | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
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EJ Zita
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Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | W 13Winter | We are interested in symmetries in nature and the universe, and in human understanding and interaction with nature. We will read books and articles on astrophysics, cosmology and/or the environment to explore topics such as these. Physicists have discovered new puzzles which your generation will solve. Why is the expansion of the universe accelerating? What are dark matter and dark energy? Why is there matter, space, and time? Why do these take the forms that we observe?We will read about and discuss the beauty and importance of quantitative study of nature and our place in the natural world. Students will gain a deeper physical understanding of the universe, with little or no math.We will share our insights, ideas, and questions about the readings and our wonder about the universe. Students will write weekly short essays and many responses to peers' essays. Students will meet with their team (of 3 peers) at least one day before each class to complete pre-seminar assignments.Learning goals include deeper qualitative understanding of physics, related sciences and the scientific method; more sophisticated capabilities as science-literate citizens; and improved skills in writing, critical thinking, teamwork and communication.Program webpage: | EJ Zita | Tue Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Winter | Winter | ||||
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Ruth Hayes and Krishna Chowdary
Signature Required:
Winter
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 16 | 16 | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | "Animation follows the rules of physics - unless it is funnier otherwise." - Art Babbitt, animatorWhat are the 'rules' of physics, and where do they come from? How do animators follow these rules? How do they know when to break them?This challenging program will introduce you to the mathematical models that help describe and explain motion in the natural world. You will learn how to combine observation, reason and imagination to produce such models, explore the creative uses that can be made of them, and consider the new meanings that result. We hope to highlight similarities and differences between how artists and scientists make sense of, and intervene in, the world.We do not expect prior experience in drawing, animation or physics; the program is designed to accommodate new learners in these areas. We do expect that you can read and write at the college level and have completed math through intermediate algebra. You will all engage in common work in drawing, animation, mathematics and physics, for 14 credits. You will also be asked to choose one of two more focused tracks for the remaining two credits, either in (1) drawing or (2) mathematics. Students who choose to focus on drawing will gain two quarters experience of college-level drawing. Students who choose to focus on mathematics will cover two quarters of calculus in this program. Which ever you choose, the work will be intensive in both art and science, and you should plan to spend on average up to 50 hours per week (including class time).Through workshops, labs, seminars and lectures, you will learn basic principles of drawing, animation, mathematics and physics, while improving reading and writing skills. You will integrate these areas to represent and interpret the natural and human-created worlds, and to solve scientific and design problems in those worlds. For example, in physics labs and animation workshops you might record high-speed video to analyze motion or construct animation toys that play with the boundaries between motion and illusions of motion.In fall we will introduce you to basic principles and practices of drawing, 2D analog animation and video production, as well as the fundamentals of physics, including kinematics, forces and conservation principles. To support this work, you will also study mathematics, including ratios and proportional reasoning, geometry, graphing, functions, and concepts of calculus. In winter, you will learn 2D digital animation techniques, focus in physics on special relativity (modern models of space, time and motion), and continue to learn concepts of calculus. The program will culminate in creative projects that integrate your new technical skills with your learning in art and science. | Ruth Hayes Krishna Chowdary | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter | ||||
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Mario Gadea
Signature Required:
Spring
|
Program | FR–SRFreshmen - Senior | 12 | 12 | Day and Evening | S 13Spring | The unification of electricity and magnetism and the development of calculus are among the most beautiful and elegant intellectual achievements in human history. Electromagnetism, one of the fundamental forces of nature, is vital for an understanding of phenomena ranging from life on earth to the light from stars. Calculus allows us to create accurate mathematical models that explain the world and predict the future.This challenging program integrates mathematics and physics. In our study of mathematics, students will explore some topics typically covered at the end of a year-long calculus sequence (such as multivariable calculus and vector calculus). In our study of physics, students will learn about electric forces, fields, and energy, circuits, magnetic forces, fields, and induction, and electromagnetic waves. Students will also work on an independent project focusing on some electromagnetic phenomenon or device.We will use lectures, on-line resources, workshops and labs to learn this material. Students will be evaluated through problem sets, participation in program activities, quizzes and exams. The work will be intensive in math and physics, and you should plan to devote an average of 30 hours per week (including class time) to this program. | Mario Gadea | Mon Tue Wed Thu | Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Spring | Spring | ||||
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Paula Schofield, Brian Walter, Richard Weiss, Abir Biswas, Michael Paros, Clyde Barlow, Benjamin Simon, Judith Cushing, Dharshi Bopegedera, Rebecca Sunderman, EJ Zita, Donald Morisato, Clarissa Dirks, James Neitzel, Sheryl Shulman, Neal Nelson and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
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Program | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.Faculty offering undergraduate research opportunities are listed below. Contact them directly if you are interested. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment. (geology, earth science) studies nutrient and toxic trace metal cycles in terrestrial and coastal ecosystems. Potential projects could include studies of mineral weathering, wildfires and mercury cycling in ecosystems. Students could pursue these interests at the laboratory-scale or through field-scale biogeochemistry studies taking advantage of the Evergreen Ecological Observation Network (EEON), a long-term ecological study area. Students with backgrounds in a combination of geology, biology or chemistry could gain skills in soil, vegetation and water collection and learn methods of sample preparation and analysis for major and trace elements. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects. (1) Quantitative determination of metals in the stalactites formed in aging concrete using ICP-MS. Students who are interested in learning about the ICP-MS technique and using it for quantitative analysis will find this project interesting. (2) Science and education. We will work with local teachers to develop lab activities that enhance the science curriculum in local schools. Students who have an interest in teaching science and who have completed general chemistry with laboratory would be ideal for this project. (computer science, ecology informatics) studies how scientists might better use information technology and visualization in their research, particularly in ecology and environmental studies. She would like to work with students who have a background in computer science or one of the sciences (e.g., ecology, biology, chemistry or physics), and who are motivated to explore how new computing paradigms can be harnessed to improve the individual and collaborative work of scientists. Such technologies include visualizations, plugins, object-oriented systems, new database technologies and "newer" languages that scientists themselves use such as python or R. (biology) aims to better understand the evolutionary principles that underlie the emergence, spread and containment of infectious disease by studying the coevolution of retroviruses and their primate hosts. Studying how host characteristics and ecological changes influence virus transmission in lemurs will enable us to address the complex spatial and temporal factors that impact emerging diseases. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in molecular biology techniques, including tissue culture and the use of viral vectors. (mathematics) is interested in problems in mathematical biology associated with population and evolutionary dynamics. Students working with him will help create computer simulations using agent-based modeling and cellular automata and analyzing non-linear models for the evolution of cooperative behavior in strategic multiplayer evolutionary games. Students should have a strong mathematics or computer science backgroun. (organic chemistry) is interested in organic synthesis research, including asymmetric synthesis methodology, chemical reaction dynamics and small molecule synthesis. One specific study involves the design and synthesis of enzyme inhibitor molecules to be used as effective laboratory tools with which to study the mechanistic steps of programmed cell death (e.g., in cancer cells). Students with a background in organic chemistry and biology will gain experience with the laboratory techniques of organic synthesis as well as the techniques of spectroscopy. (biology) is interested in the developmental biology of the embryo, a model system for analyzing how patterning occurs. Maternally encoded signaling pathways establish the anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes. Individual student projects will use a combination of genetic, molecular biological and biochemical approaches to investigate the spatial regulation of this complex process. (biochemistry) uses methods from organic and analytical chemistry to study biologically interesting molecules. A major focus of his current work is on fatty acids; in particular, finding spectroscopic and chromatographic methods to identify fatty acids in complex mixtures and to detect changes that occur in fats during processing or storage. This has relevance both for foods and in biodiesel production. The other major area of interest is in plant natural products, such as salicylates. Work is in process screening local plants for the presence of these molecules, which are important plant defense signals. Work is also supported in determining the nutritional value of indigenous plants. Students with a background and interest in organic, analytical or biochemistry could contribute to this work. (computer science) and (computer science) are interested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Their areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing and hardware modeling languages. (biology, veterinary medicine) is interested in animal health and diseases that affect the animal agriculture industry. Currently funded research includes the development of bacteriophage therapy for dairy cattle uterine infections, calf salmonellosis and mastitis. A number of hands-on laboratory projects are available to students interested in pursuing careers in science. (organic, polymer, materials chemistry) is interested in the interdisciplinary fields of biodegradable plastics and biomedical polymers. Research in the field of biodegradable plastics is becoming increasingly important to replace current petroleum-derived materials and to reduce the environmental impact of plastic wastes. Modification of starch through copolymerization and use of bacterial polyesters show promise in this endeavor. Specific projects within biomedical polymers involve the synthesis of poly (lactic acid) copolymers that have potential for use in tissue engineering. Students with a background in chemistry and biology will gain experience in the synthesis and characterization of these novel polymer materials. Students will present their work at American Chemical Society (ACS) conferences. (computer science) isinterested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Her areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing, and hardware modeling languages. (biology) is interested in immunology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, vaccine development and gene therapy applications. Recent focus has been on developing novel methods for vaccine delivery and immune enhancement in finfish. Specific projects include using attenuated bacteria to deliver either protein-based or nucleic acid vaccines in vivo and investigating bacterial invasion mechanisms. In collaboration with (faculty emerita) other projects include characterization of bacteriophage targeting the fish pathogen and elucidation of phage and host activities in stationary-phase infected with T4 bacteriophage. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in laboratory research methods, including microbiological techniques, tissue culture and recombinant DNA technology, and may have opportunities to present data at regional and national conferences. (inorganic/materials chemistry, physical chemistry) is interested in the synthesis and property characterization of new bismuth-containing materials. These compounds have been characterized as electronic conductors, attractive activators for luminescent materials, second harmonic generators and oxidation catalysts for several organic compounds. Traditional solid-state synthesis methods will be utilized to prepare new complex bismuth oxides. Once synthesized, powder x-ray diffraction patterns will be obtained and material properties such as conductivity, melting point, biocidal tendency, coherent light production and magnetic behavior will be examined when appropriate. (mathematics) is interested in problems relating to graphs, combinatorial games and especially combinatorial games played on graphs. He would like to work with students who have a strong background in mathematics and/or computer science and who are interested in applying their skills to open-ended problems relating to graphs and/or games. (computer science, mathematics) has several ongoing projects in computer vision, robotics and security. There are some opportunities for students to develop cybersecurity games for teaching network security concepts and skills. In robotics, he is looking for students to develop laboratory exercises for several different mobile robotic platforms, including Scribbler, LEGO NXT and iRobot Create. This would also involve writing tools for image processing and computer vision using sequences of still images, video streams and 2.5-D images from the Kinect. In addition, he is open to working with students who have their own ideas for projects in these and related areas, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence and analysis of processor performance. (physics) studies the Sun and the Earth. What are the mechanisms of global warming? What can we expect in the future? What can we do about it right now? How do solar changes affect Earth over decades (e.g., Solar Max) to millennia? Why does the Sun shine a bit more brightly when it is more magnetically active, even though sunspots are dark? Why does the Sun's magnetic field flip every 11 years? Why is the temperature of the Sun’s outer atmosphere millions of degrees higher than that of its surface? Students can do research related to global warming in Zita's academic programs and in contracts, and have investigated the Sun by analyzing data from solar observatories and using theory and computer modeling. Serious students are encouraged to form research contracts and may thereafter be invited to join our research team. Please go to the catalog view for specific information about each option. | Paula Schofield Brian Walter Richard Weiss Abir Biswas Michael Paros Clyde Barlow Benjamin Simon Judith Cushing Dharshi Bopegedera Rebecca Sunderman EJ Zita Donald Morisato Clarissa Dirks James Neitzel Sheryl Shulman Neal Nelson Lydia McKinstry | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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Clyde Barlow
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment. | Clyde Barlow | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | |||
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EJ Zita
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (physics) studies the Sun and the Earth. What are the mechanisms of global warming? What can we expect in the future? What can we do about it right now? How do solar changes affect Earth over decades (e.g. Solar Max) to millennia? Why does the Sun shine a bit more brightly when it is more magnetically active, even though sunspots are dark? Why does the Sun's magnetic field flip every 11 years? Why is the temperature of the Sun’s outer atmosphere millions of degrees higher than that of its surface? Students can do research related to global warming in Zita's academic programs and in contracts, and have investigated the Sun by analyzing data from solar observatories, and using theory and computer modeling. Serious students are encouraged to form research contracts, and may thereafter be invited to join our research team. | astronomy, physics, climate studies. | EJ Zita | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring | ||
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Richard Weiss
Signature Required:
Fall Winter Spring
|
Research | SO–SRSophomore - Senior | V | V | Day | F 12 Fall | W 13Winter | S 13Spring | Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (computer science and mathematics) has several ongoing projects in computer vision, robotics, and security. There are some opportunities for students to develop cybersecurity games for teaching network security concepts and skills. In Robotics, he is looking for students to develop laboratory exercises for several different mobile robotic platforms, including Scribbler, LEGO NXT, and iRobot Create. This would also involve writing tools for image processing and computer vision using sequences of still images, video streams, and 2.5-D images from the Kinect. In addition, he is open to working with students who have their own ideas for projects in these and related areas, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and analysis of processor performance. | Richard Weiss | Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR | Fall | Fall Winter Spring |
