An introduction to the development and manifestation of the basic physical laws, the process of scientific inquiry and discovery, and the relationship and responsibilities of science to society. 207A. Mechanics and Properties of Matter. Math 124 may be taken concurrently. This course develops the physical laws, concepts, and mathematical tools needed to describe motion and the action of forces. Central ideas include Newton's laws of motion, conservation of energy, and conservation of linear and angular momentum.
Coursework emphasizes problem solving.
Math 223 may be taken concurrently. This course develops both microscopic and macroscopic descriptions of electricity and magnetism. The microscopic viewpoint is described by Maxwell's four equations which relate electric and magnetic fields to electric charges and currents, and by Coulomb's law. The macroscopic description involves simple AC and DC circuit analysis which includes Ohm's law and the concepts of resistance, capacitance, inductance, impedance, and electrical resonance. Math 223 may be taken concurrently.