Physical Systems
This yearlong program will examine the principal concepts and theories by which we describe and understand the physical world, from the realm of our immediate senses (classical physics) to that of the very small (quantum mechanics) to the vast (astrophysics and cosmology). We will emphasize understanding the nature and formal structure of quantitative physical theories. We will focus on the unifying concepts and common mathematical structures that organize various physical theories into a coherent body of knowledge. This program is necessarily mathematical; required mathematical methods will be developed as needed and in the context of their use in the physical sciences. The central role of mathematics in describing nature is one of the core intellectual issues in this program. Quantitative problem solving will be emphasized.
- Fall &Winter (Coordinated Study)
- Faculty: E. J. Zita
- Enrollment: 25 FW
- Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing; successful completion of at least one year of college-level calculus-based physics (such as Matter and Motion); facility with integration and differentiation.
- Faculty Signature: No
- Special Expenses: expensive textbooks
- Internship Possibilities: No
- Travel Component: see Spring contract option
This program will be organized around oscillating systems and symmetries, with components in classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, astrophysics and selected topics in contemporary physics. Mathematical topics will include multivariable calculus, linear algebra and differential equations. Computers and computer graphics will be used as appropriate for obtaining numerical solutions and for gaining qualitative insight into physical processes.
Students will be responsible for library research on topics of interest and for peer instruction in the classroom. Laboratory investigations will also be required. Faculty and student presentations will include lectures, seminars, hands-on workshops and group problem solving workshops.
Integrated seminars on history, literature, philosophy and cultural studies of science will encourage ongoing consideration of the contexts and meanings of science knowledge systems and practices, throughout history and across cultures. All students will participate in Seminar.
In Spring, up to ten students can continue Physical systems work in a group contract. Some of these students may also join Astronomy on an extended field trip to the Southwest.
(Refer to the Astronomy and Cosmologies description on page 84. )This program will constitute serious preparation for more advanced work, including graduate study in physics, applied mathematics or the physical sciences. It will be a rigorous and demanding course of study. Students will need to devote a minimum of 40 hours per week to their academic work.
Credit awarded in physics*, mathematics*, numerical methods* and/or philosophy of science.
Total: 16 credits each quarter.
Program is preparatory for careers and future studies in physical sciences, engineering and applied mathematics, and/or philosophy/history of science.