Vector methods are stressed and field notation is used. The laws of thermodynamics, their consequences and applications. Kinetic theory of an ideal gas and an introduction to statistical mechanics. A hands-on introduction into the basics of analog and digital circuits. Students will construct, troubleshoot, calibrate and use electronic circuits, beginning with the most basic and progressing in sophistication.
Circuit elements used include diodes, op-amps, transistors, thermistors, inductors and logic gates.
Students will assemble a variable low-voltage DC power supply from scratch and use it in later experiments. Students with experience in electronics but lacking the prerequisite may roster the course with the permission of the instructor. An introductory lab course in physical and geometrical optics and thermal physics. Thermal experiments include studies of adiabatic and isothermal compressions of gases, specific heats, latent heats and phase changes, and characteristics of thermal radiation. A course designed to broaden and deepen the understanding of classical physics.