This course offers the nonscience major an opportunity to explore how physics impacts everyday life. Although mathematics will not be the focus of the course, a working knowledge of algebra, geometry and simple trigonometry is necessary.
Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and scientific observation skills.
However, all science majors with a background in basic calculus would find the sequence valuable. The course is analytical rather than purely descriptive. Emphasis is on understanding fundamental principles and applying them to the analysis of physical phenomena. Classical kinematics and dynamics, kinetic theory of gases, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear structure are among the topics studied. An analytical survey of the experiments, theories, and principles that led to the modern view of physical reality.