Mechanics, including rotational motion and energy and momentum conservation, properties of matter, heat and thermodynamics, standing waves and sound, physical and geometrical optics, electrostatics, magnetism, DC and AC circuits, and an introduction to atomic physics. Mechanics NS LA 2a Intended as the first semester of college physics for students majoring in science or mathematics. Topics include vectors, kinematics in one and two dimensions, dynamics, work, energy, momentum, rotational motion, oscillation, and the properties of fluids. Emphasis is on the mathematical analysis of concepts. Topics include static electric fields and Coulomb's law, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitors, Ohm's law, the magnetic field and Ampere's law, induction and Faraday's law, and elementary circuit theory.
Emphasis is on mathematical analysis.
LA 2a A laboratory course designed to develop experimental skills. Focus on the use of modern electronics and computers to measure and analyze data. Students construct analog and digital circuits and then use them to carry out experiments illustrating physical principles from mechanics and electricity and magnetism. Topics include ancient astronomy, the beginning of modern science with Galileo and Newton, science in the industrial revolution, the decision to build and use the atomic bomb, nuclear medicine, radioactive fallout, secrecy and science, the anti-ABM decision, the race for the moon, the energy problem, and visions of the future. The purpose of the course is to present a variety of examples of how science has been connected with such aspects of society as warfare, politics, culture, superstition, and the quantity and quality of life.