PHYS 263 - General Physics III: Waves, Optics, and Modern Physics

• Demonstrate understanding of the distinction between Transverse and Longitudinal Waves and predict which will be supported in various media.
• Solve the differential wave equation for the simplest cases.
• Relate period, frequency, wavelength, and velocity for harmonic waves.
• Apply the concept of linear superposition to standing waves and mechanical resonance.
• Apply general concepts of mechanical waves to a variety of contexts such as musical instrument design, supersonic flight, ultrasonic testing of materials, etc.
• Demonstrate understanding of how electromagnetic waves are predicted by Maxwell’s equations.
• Analyze experimental results and derive valid conclusions related to the wave properties of light.
• Improve mastery of skills related to Phasor Diagrams and AC Circuit Analysis.
• Analyze experimental results and derive valid conclusions related to the geometrical optics of lenses and mirrors which predate the wave picture of light.
• Explain the significance of the many new discoveries of modern physics at the turn of the 20th century which challenge prior classical ideas of particle, waves, and energy. Specifically, discoveries such as the photoelectric effect, X-rays, etc.
• Use prior application of wave theory together with statistical concepts to explain early quantum discoveries.
• Apply math techniques such as Separation of Variables and the solution of Boundary-Value problems to solutions of simple problems in wave theory and quantum mechanics.
• Describe how Relativity developed from a re-examination of the nature of space and time and lead to new connections between concepts of mass and energy.
• Solve simple problems related to Relativity.
• Apply the basic principles of modern physics to simple problems and models involving atomic structure, nuclear structure, and radiation.
• Demonstrate understanding of the various applications of Quantum Physics to medicine, industry, engineering, etc.
• Demonstrate understanding of the applications of Nuclear Physics as it relates to the “energy resource problem”, alternative energy resources such as wind, tides, geothermal, biomass, etc. and the future of the “energy problem”.
• Demonstrate understanding of some basic ideas in Particle Physics and Cosmology.

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