PHYS 2120 - Calculus-Based Physics II

4 sem hrs cr

(3 hours lecture-3 hours lab)

This calculus-based course is intended for science and engineering students. Subjects covered include electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and selected topics from modern physics. Prerequisite: Exemption from or completion of ENGL 0810  & READ 0810 ; PHYS 2110  with a grade of “C” or higher. 

  Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH 1920  (with a grade of “C” or higher, if already completed).

In rare and unusual circumstances, a course prerequisite can be overridden with the permission of the Department Lead for the discipline. 

Formerly/Same As (Formerly PHY 2320)

Transfer (UT) or Non-Transfer Course (UN): UT

After completing the requirements of PHYS 2120, students will be able to…

• conduct an experiment, collect and analyze data, and interpret results in a laboratory setting.
• analyze, test, and evaluate a scientific hypothesis.
• use basic scientific language and processes and be able to distinguish between scientific and non-scientific explanations.
• identify unifying principles and repeatable patterns in nature and apply them to problems or issues of a scientific nature.
• analyze and discuss the impact of scientific discovery on human thought and behavior.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate the existence of two kinds of electric charge, verify, and explain the first law of electrostatics using appropriate lab materials
• Define and illustrate an understanding of the concepts of electric field, electric field intensity, and electric field lines
• Distinguish by definition and example between electric potential energy and electric potential difference
• Understand the relationship between capacitance, voltage, and charge
• Apply a basic understanding of voltage, current, and resistance in D.C. circuits
• Demonstrate an understanding of magnetic forces, magnetic field lines, and the modern-day theory of magnetism
• Obtain a working knowledge of geometrical optics and optical instruments
• Understand the relationship between wave optics and interference and diffraction