Techniques and methods are emphasized. Formal proofs are discussed when they help elucidate the techniques and methods under study. Course objective is to develop skills necessary to employ modern digital and analog electronics technology in the sciences. In this course designed for the non-science major, the student is introduced to modern astronomical knowledge and theories. The planets, stars, and galaxies are investigated.
Space exploration is discussed.
Minimal mathematics is used and no previous science is required. Newtonian particle dynamics is presented with special emphasis on damped and forced simple harmonic motion and central-force motion. Generalized coordinates are introduced, and both Lagrange's formulation and Hamilton's formulation of classical mechanics are developed. An elaboration of Lagrangian mechanics. The laws of thermodynamics are introduced and studied in the classical manner and the statistical mechanical foundations of thermodynamics are developed, including quantum statistics.