Glossary
UW Bothell Course Descriptions
UW Tacoma Course Descriptions
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Course Descriptions |
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Detailed course offerings (Time Schedule) are available for
To see the detailed Instructor Class Description, click on the underlined instructor name following the course description.
PHYS 101 Physical Science by Inquiry I (5-) NW, QSR
Laboratory-based development of concepts and reasoning skills. Helps prepare preservice teachers to teach science by inquiry. Liberal arts students gain experience in the scientific process. Useful for students with weak science preparation before taking standard science courses. Forms foundation for scientific literacy. Offered: AW.
PHYS 102 Physical Science by Inquiry I (5) NW, QSR
Laboratory-based development of concepts and reasoning skills. Helps prepare preservice teachers to teach science by inquiry. Liberal arts students gain experience in the scientific process. Useful for students with weak science preparation before taking standard science courses. Forms foundation for scientific literacy. Prerequisite: PHYS 101. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 103 Physical Science by Inquiry I (5) NW, QSR
See PHYS 101-102. Prerequisite: PHYS 102.
PHYS 106 Facilitated Group Inquiry (2) NW Anderson
Develops laboratory-based concepts and reasoning skills. Develops problem solving techniques and scientific method in a group setting through tutorials. Corequisite: PHYS 116. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 110 Liberal Arts Physics (5) NW, QSR
Basic concepts of physics presented with emphasis on their origin and their impact on society and the Western intellectual tradition. Primarily for students in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Offered: AS.
Instructor Course Description:
Richard Jeffrey Wilkes
PHYS 114 General Physics (4) NW, QSR
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Mechanics. Credit is not given for both 114 and 121. Recommended: working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry; one year high school physics; concurrent registration in PHYS 117. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Aurel Bulgac
Charles E Robertson
Michael Schick
PHYS 115 General Physics (4) NW, QSR
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Heat and electromagnetism. Credit is not given for both 115 and 122. Prerequisite: PHYS 114 or 121; recommended: concurrent registration in PHYS 118. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Oscar E Vilches
PHYS 116 General Physics (4) NW, QSR
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Sound, light, and modern physics. Credit is not given for both 116 and 123. Prerequisite: PHYS 115 or 122; recommended: concurrent registration in PHYS 119. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Oscar E Vilches
PHYS 117 General Physics Laboratory (1) NW
Mechanics laboratory. Credit/no credit only. Credit is not given for both 117 and the 121 lab. Prerequisite: PHYS 114 which may be taken concurrently. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 118 General Physics Laboratory (1) NW
Heat and electromagnetism laboratory. Credit/no credit only. Credit is not given for both 118 and the 122 lab. Prerequisite: PHYS 115 which may be taken concurrently. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 119 General Physics Laboratory (1) NW
Sound, light, and modern physics laboratory. Credit/no credit only. Credit is not given for both 119 and the 123 lab. Prerequisite: PHYS 116 which may be taken concurrently. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 121 Mechanics (5) NW, QSR
Basic principles of mechanics and experiments in mechanics for physical science and engineering majors. Lecture tutorial and lab components must all be taken to receive credit. Credit is not given for both PHYS 114 and PHYS 121. Prerequisite: MATH 124, MATH 127, MATH 134, or MATH 145, any of which may be taken concurrently; recommended: one year high school physics. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Alejandro Garcia
Boris B. Blinov
PHYS 122 Electromagnetism and Oscillatory Motion (5) NW
Basic principles of electromagnetism, the mechanics of oscillatory motion, and experiments in these topics for physical science and engineering majors. Lecture tutorial and lab components must all be taken to receive credit. Credit is not given for both PHYS 115 and PHYS 122. Prerequisite: MATH 125, MATH 128, MATH 134, or MATH 146, any of which may be taken concurrently; PHYS 121. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 123 Waves (5) NW
Electromagnetic waves, optics, waves in matter, and experiments in these topics for physical science and engineering majors. Lecture tutorial and lab components must all be taken to receive credit. Credit is not given for both PHYS 116 and PHYS 123. Prerequisite: MATH 126, MATH 129, or MATH 134, any of which may be taken concurrently; PHYS 122. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 204 Radiation: Nature, Technology, and Society (3) NW
Introduction to the science and implications of nuclear physics and radiation for non-science students. Emphasis on qualitative rather than quantitative understanding. Physics of the nucleus, types of radiation, technological uses, and human exposure. Critical evaluation of current issues, including food irradiation, depleted uranium, nuclear power, and nuclear weapons.
Instructor Course Description:
Kathryn K S Miknaitis
PHYS 207 The Physics of Music (3) NW
The nature of sound; vibrations; traveling and standing waves; response of the ear to sound; production of musical sounds.
Instructor Course Description:
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 210 Physics by Inquiry I (5) NW
Selected topics in physics with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics and physical science as a process of inquiry. Prerequisite: either PHYS 103, PHYS 116, or PHYS 123. Offered: A.
PHYS 211 Physics by Inquiry I (5) NW
Selected topics in physics with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics and physical science as a process of inquiry. Prerequisite: PHYS 210. Offered: W.
PHYS 212 Physics by Inquiry I (5) NW
Selected topics in physics with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics and physical science as a process of inquiry. Prerequisite: PHYS 211. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 214 Light and Color (5) NW, QSR
Compares past explanation of certain familiar natural phenomena with present understandings. Lamps and lighting, outdoor light, optical devices, color vision, perspective, paints, and pigments. Quantitative comparison critical to the course, but college-level mathematics background not required. Intended for non-science students.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 215 A Way of Knowing (5) NW, QSR Boynton
Insight to the character and culture of scientific inquiry through a historical examination of how we have interpreted our experience of the phenomena of gravitation. Specifically for non-science majors. Quantitative reasoning and critical thinking required, but no college-level mathematics.
Instructor Course Description:
Paul Boynton
PHYS 216 Science and Society (5) NW, QSR Chaloupka
Investigation of the relationship between science, technology and society. Nuclear physics and molecular biology serves as concrete examples of fields with significant impact on society. Offered jointly with SIS 216; Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 224 Thermal Physics (3) NW
Introduction to heat, thermodynamics, elementary kinetic theory, and the physics of continuous media. Prerequisite: MATH 126, MATH 129, or MATH 136, any of which may be taken concurrently; PHYS 122 which may be taken concurrently. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Samuel C Fain
David Thouless
PHYS 225 Modern Physics (3) NW
Special theory of relativity; phenomena of modern physics with emphasis on photons, electrons, and atoms; introduction to quantum physics. Prerequisite: 2.0 in PHYS 123 which may be taken concurrently. Offered: WSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph A. Formaggio
Oscar E Vilches
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 227 Elementary Mathematical Physics (4) NW
Applications of mathematics in physics with emphasis on the mechanics of particles and continuous systems. Develops and applies computational methods, both analytic and numerical. Prerequisite: either MATH 134, MATH 135, MATH 136, MATH 308, or MATH 318; 2.0 in PHYS 123. Offered: AS.
PHYS 228 Elementary Mathematical Physics (3) NW
Applications of mathematics in physics with emphasis on the mechanics of particles and continuous systems. Prerequisite: PHYS 227. Offered: AW.
PHYS 229 Mathematical Methods and Classical Mechanics (3) NW
Mathematical methods applied to classical mechanics, including Lagrangian mechanics. Prerequisite: 2.0 in PHYS 228. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 231 Introductory Experimental Physics (3) NW
Introduction to data acquisition and analysis using experiments which measure fundamental constants or properties of nature (Planck’s constant, Boltzmann’s constant, speed of light, charge of electron). Prerequisite: 2.0 in PHYS 123. Offered: A.
PHYS 232 Introduction to Computational Physics (3)
Computational techniques applied to physics and data analysis in laboratory setting. Emphasis on numerical solutions of differential equations, least square data fitting, Monte Carlo methods, and Fourier Analysis. A high-level language taught and used; no previous computing experience required. Prerequisite: PHYS 227.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 248 Introductory Selected Topics (1-5, max. 15) NW
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Instructor Course Description:
Laurence G Yaffe
Gerald T. Seidler
PHYS 311 Relativity and Gravitation (3) NW
Special theory of relativity, Newtonian gravity, and relativistic effects of gravitation, including black holes, gravitational waves, and applications to cosmology. Prerequisite: 2.0 in PHYS 123.
Instructor Course Description:
Boris B. Blinov
PHYS 315 Applications of Modern Physics (3)
Foundations of quantum physics, including Schroedinger equation, tunneling, atoms, spin, and applications. These include semiconductor devices, lasers, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), quantum cryptography, atomic microscopes. Prerequisite: minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 224, minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 225, minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 227 which may be taken concurrently.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 321 Electromagnetism (4) NW
First of a three-quarter sequence. Charges at rest and in motion; dielectric and magnetic media; electromagnetic waves; relativity and electromagnetism; physical optics. Prerequisite: either MATH 324 which may be taken concurrently, MATH 334, MATH 335, or MATH 336; minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 228. Offered: AW.
PHYS 322 Electromagnetism (4) NW
Continuation of PHYS 321. Charges at rest and in motion; dielectric and magnetic media; electromagnetic waves; relativity and electromagnetism; physical optics. Prerequisite: PHYS 321. Offered: WSp.
Instructor Course Description:
James M Bardeen
PHYS 323 Electromagnetism (4) NW
Continuation of PHYS 322. Charges at rest and in motion; dielectric and magnetic media; electromagnetic waves; relativity and electromagnetism; physical optics. Prerequisite: PHYS 322.
Instructor Course Description:
David Cobden
PHYS 324 Quantum Mechanics (4) NW
First part of a two-quarter sequence. Introduction to nonrelativistic quantum mechanics: need for quantum theory, Schrodinger equation, operators, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, identical particles, and the periodic table. Prerequisite: either MATH 324, MATH 334, MATH 335, or MATH 336; minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 225; minimum grade of 2.0 in PHYS 228. Offered: ASu.
PHYS 325 Quantum Mechanics (4) NW
Continuation of PHYS 324. Introduction to nonrelativistic quantum mechanics: perturbation theory, the variational principle, radiation; application of quantum mechanics to atomic physics, magnetic resonance, scattering, and various special topics. Prerequisite: PHYS 324. Offered: W.
PHYS 328 Statistical Physics (3) NW
Elements of statistical mechanics and their applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 224; PHYS 324. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 331 Optics Laboratory (3) NW
Measurements of interference and diffraction, optical properties of matter, image processing, interferometry, holography. Prerequisite: PHYS 228. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 334 Electric Circuits Laboratory (3) NW
Basic elements of DC, AC, and transient circuits; electronic devices; electrical measurements. Prerequisite: either MATH 126, MATH 129, or MATH 136; 2.0 in PHYS 123. Offered: WSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
David B. Pengra
PHYS 335 Electric Circuits Laboratory (3) NW
Electrical measurements, data management, digital electronics of microprocessor systems. Building a microprocessor application. Prerequisite: PHYS 334. Offered: SpS.
PHYS 401 Special Problems (*, max. 30)
Supervised individual study. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 402 Special Problems (*, max. 30)
Supervised individual study. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 403 Special Problems (*, max. 30)
Supervised individual study. Offered: AWSpS.
PHYS 405 Physical Science by Inquiry II (5-) NW
Emphasis on depth of understanding and development of reasoning and representational skills essential to the scientific process. Provides background for teaching physical science as a process of inquiry and develops scientific literacy. Offered: A.
PHYS 406 Physical Science by Inquiry II (5) NW
Emphasis on depth of understanding and development of reasoning and representational skills essential to the scientific process. Provides background for teaching physical science as a process of inquiry and develops scientific literacy. Offered: W.
PHYS 407 Physics by Inquiry II (5) NW
Selected topics in physics, with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics at secondary school and introductory college levels. Some mathematical proficiency required. Prerequisite: PHYS 123. Offered: A.
PHYS 408 Physics by Inquiry II (5) NW
Selected topics in physics, with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics at secondary school and introductory college levels. Some mathematical proficiency required. Prerequisite: PHYS 407. Offered: W.
PHYS 409 Physics by Inquiry II (5) NW
Selected topics in physics, with emphasis on depth of understanding and development of skills essential to the scientific process. Background for teaching physics at secondary school and introductory college levels. Some mathematical proficiency required. Prerequisite: PHYS 408. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 410 Physics by Inquiry for In-Service Teachers (1-2, max. 30) NW
A "hands-on" inquiry-oriented approach designed to train in-service teachers in the use of the physical science content for any of several science programs selected by a school or school district. Credit/no credit only.
PHYS 411 Physics by Inquiry for Lead Teachers (1-4, max. 4) NW
Extends the content covered in previous courses and helps prepare lead teachers to train colleagues to use any of several science programs selected by schools or districts. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: two courses selected from PHYS 405, PHYS 406, PHYS 407, PHYS 408, or PHYS 409. Offered: A.
PHYS 412 Physics by Inquiry for Lead Teachers (1-4, max. 4) NW
Extends the content covered in previous courses and helps prepare lead teachers to train colleagues to use any of several science programs selected by schools or districts. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: two courses selected from PHYS 405, PHYS 406, PHYS 407, PHYS 408, or PHYS 409. Offered: A.
PHYS 413 Physics by Inquiry for Lead Teachers (1-4, max. 4) NW
Extends the content covered in previous courses and helps prepare lead teachers to train colleagues to use any of several science programs selected by schools or districts. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: two courses selected from PHYS 405, PHYS 406, PHYS 407, PHYS 408, or PHYS 409. Offered: A.
PHYS 421 Atomic and Molecular Physics (3) NW
Survey of the principal phenomena of atomic and molecular physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 323; PHYS 325. Offered: W.
PHYS 422 Nuclear and Elementary-Particle Physics (3) NW
Survey of the principal phenomena of nuclear and elementary-particle physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 323; PHYS 325. Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 423 Solid-State Physics (3) NW
Survey of the principal phenomena of solid-state physics. Prerequisite: a minimum grade of 2.0 in either PHYS 315 or PHYS 324. Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
Marjorie A Olmstead
PHYS 424 Mathematical Physics (3) NW
Advanced classical mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 323; PHYS 325. Offered: A.
PHYS 427 Applications of Physics (1-3, max. 12) NW
Current applications of physics to problems in the sciences and technology.
Instructor Course Description:
Boris B. Blinov
David Thouless
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 428 Selected Topics in Physics (1-5, max. 12) NW
Instructor Course Description:
Michael Schick
PHYS 429 Biophysics (3)
Application of the concepts and methods of physics to biological systems. Prerequisite: PHYS 123; PHYS 224; PHYS 227.
PHYS 431 Modern Physics Laboratory (3) NW
Measurement in modern atomic, molecular, and solid-state physics. Recommended: 30 credits in physics. Offered: A.
PHYS 432 Modern Physics Laboratory (3) NW
Measurement in modern atomic, molecular, and solid-state physics. Recommended: 30 credits in physics. Offered: W.
PHYS 433 Modern Physics Laboratory (3) NW
Techniques in nuclear and elementary-particle research. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 434 Application of Computers to Physical Measurement (3) NW
Laboratory giving specific instruction and experience in interfacing laboratory equipment to computers. Prerequisite: PHYS 334. Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
David B. Pengra
Thompson H Burnett
PHYS 436 Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos (4) NW
Variational Principle, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics, phase space, nonlinear dynamics, approach to chaos, Lyapunov exponents, applications to physical systems. Numerical exercises to illustrate phenomena. Prerequisite: MATH 309.
PHYS 441 Quantum Physics (4) NW
Introduction to concepts and methods of quantum physics: wave mechanics (de Broglie wavelength, uncertainty principle, Schrodinger equation), one-dimensional examples (tunneling, harmonic oscillator), formalism of quantum physics, angular momentum and the hydrogen atom. Recommended: 30 credits in physical science or engineering. Offered: W.
Instructor Course Description:
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 451 Issues for Ethnic Minorities and Women In Science and Engineering (3/5) I&S
Addresses issues faced by women and ethnic minorities in physical sciences and engineering. Focuses on participation, barriers to participation, and solutions to those issues for women and ethnic minorities in physical sciences and engineering. Offered: jointly with WOMEN 485.
PHYS 460 Water in the Environment (3) NW Baker, Raymond, Waddington, Warren
Discusses the unique physical and chemical properties of the water molecule in relation to the atmospheric greenhouse effect, precipitation formation, oceanic circulations, infiltration of water through soils, geyser eruptions, and glacier and sea ice thickness. Prerequisite: either MATH 124, MATH 126, MATH 129, or MATH 136; PHYS 123. Offered: jointly with ATM S 460/ESS 424. Offered: A.
PHYS 485 Senior Honors Seminar (1, max. 3) NW
Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
Hans G Dehmelt
PHYS 486 Senior Honors Seminar (1, max. 3) NW
Offered: W.
Instructor Course Description:
Eric G Adelberger
PHYS 487 Senior Honors Seminar (1, max. 3) NW
Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Michael Schick
Stephen R. Sharpe
PHYS 491 Independent Research (1-3, max. 3)
Supervised, independent study requiring written and oral presentations summarizing work accomplished. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: A.
PHYS 492 Independent Research (1-3, max. 3)
Supervised, independent study requiring written and oral presentations summarizing work accomplished. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: W.
PHYS 493 Independent Research (1-3, max. 3)
Supervised, independent study requiring written and oral presentations summarizing work accomplished. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 494 Seminar on Current Problems in Physics (1, max. 3) NW
Supervised, independent study of topics (chosen by faculty in charge) of current interest in physics. Written and oral presentation summarizing work accomplished are required. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
Jens Gundlach
John F. Wilkerson
PHYS 495 Seminar on Current Problems in Physics (1, max. 3) NW
Supervised, independent study of topics (chosen by faculty in charge) of current interest in physics. Written and oral presentation summarizing work accomplished are required. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: W.
Instructor Course Description:
Eric G Adelberger
PHYS 496 Seminar on Current Problems in Physics (1, max. 3) NW
Supervised, independent study of topics (chosen by faculty in charge) of current interest in physics. Written and oral presentation summarizing work accomplished are required. Recommended: 12 credits in physics above 200 level. Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Stephen R. Sharpe
PHYS 501 Tutorials in Teaching Physics (1, max. 2)
Preparation for teaching introductory physics; use and critical analysis of instructional materials in a collaborative learning environment; supervised teaching practicum in which instructional materials are used with undergraduates. Credit/no credit only. Offered: A.
PHYS 502 Tutorials in Teaching Physics (1, max. 2)
Preparation for teaching introductory physics; use and critical analysis of instructional materials in a collaborative learning environment; supervised teaching practicum in which instructional materials are used with undergraduates. Credit/no credit only. Offered: W.
PHYS 503 Tutorials in Teaching Physics (1, max. 2)
Preparation for teaching introductory physics; use and critical analysis of instructional materials in a collaborative learning environment; supervised teaching practicum in which instructional materials are used with undergraduates. Credit/no credit only. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 505 Mechanics (3)
Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, with applications to various topics such as coupled oscillators, parametric resonance, anharmonic oscillations, chaos. Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
Stephen D Ellis
PHYS 506 Numerical Methods (3)
Integration, solution of differential equations, Monte Carlo methods, function minimization, data analysis, modern computing techniques, computation in experimental physics. Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
John F. Wilkerson
PHYS 507 Physical Applications of Group Theory (3)
Applications of finite and continuous groups, representation theory, symmetry, and conservation laws to physical systems. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 511 Topics in Contemporary Physics (3, max. 9)
Topics of current experimental, theoretical, or technological interest in modern physics. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 513 Electromagnetism and Relativity (4)
First of a three-part sequence. Principles of electrostatics, complex variable techniques, boundary value problems and their associated mathematical techniques, Green's functions. Offered: A.
PHYS 514 Electromagnetism and Relativity (3)
Continuation of PHYS 513. Electric and magnetic fields in free space and material media, wave guides and cavity resonators. Offered: W.
PHYS 515 Electromagnetism and Relativity (4)
Continuation of PHYS 514. Special relativity, electromagnetic radiation from accelerated charges, synchrotron radiation, Cerenkov radiation, radiation reaction. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 517 Quantum Mechanics (4)
First of a three-part sequence. Modern non-relativistic quantum mechanics developed, beginning with its basic principles. Dirac and abstract operator notation introduced, starting with simple examples. Offered: A.
Instructor Course Description:
Ann E Nelson
PHYS 518 Quantum Mechanics (4)
Continuation of PHYS 517. Modern non-relativistic quantum mechanics. The character of the theory illustrated both with physical examples and with conceptual problems. Topics include: atomic structure, scattering processes, density operator description of mixed states, and measurement theory. Abstract operator methods emphasized in the exposition of angular momentum, scattering, and perturbation theory. Offered: W.
Instructor Course Description:
Ann E Nelson
PHYS 519 Quantum Mechanics (4)
Continuation of PHYS 518. Modern non-relativistic quantum mechanics. Physical examples and conceptual problems. Topics include: atomic structure, scattering processes, density operator description of mixed states, and measurement theory. Abstract operator methods emphasized in the exposition of angular momentum, scattering, and perturbation theory. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 520 Advanced Quantum Mechanics -- Introduction to Quantum Field Theory (4)
Multi-particle systems, second quantization, diagrammatic perturbation theory, radiation, correlation functions and multi-particle scattering, relativistic theories, renormalizability, basic quantum electrodynamics, and other applications. Offered: A.
PHYS 521 Advanced Quantum Mechanics -- Introduction to Quantum Field Theory (3)
Multi-particle systems, second quantization, diagrammatic perturbation theory, radiation, correlation functions and multi-particle scattering, relativistic theories, renormalizability, basic quantum electrodynamics, and other applications. Offered: W.
PHYS 522 Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Introduction to Modern Quantum Field Theory (3)
Functional integrals, symmetry breaking, critical phenomena and continuum limits, and non-perturbative methods. Credit/no credit only. Offered: Sp.
PHYS 524 Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (4)
Statistical mechanical basis of the fundamental thermodynamical laws and concepts; classical and quantum statistical distribution functions; applications to selected thermodynamic processes and examples of Bose and Fermi statistics. Offered: W.
PHYS 525 Statistical Mechanics (3)
Introduction to equilibrium and non-equilibrium aspects of many-body systems; scale invariance and universality at phase transitions and critical phenomena; exactly soluble models; Markov processes, master equations and Langevin equation in non-equilibrium stochastic processes. Prerequisite: PHYS 524. Offered: A.
PHYS 527 Current Problems in Physics (1)
Introduction to current research topics for beginning graduate students. Credit/no credit only. Offered: A.
PHYS 528 Current Problems in Physics (1)
Introduction to current research topics for beginning graduate students. Credit/no credit only. Offered: W.
PHYS 530 Laser Physics (4)
Physics underlying laser design and operation in the context of common laboratory systems. Topics may include continuous and pulsed lasers; solid, liquid, and gas gain media; Q-switching, mode-locking, resonator theory, nonlinear optics, and others. Prerequisite: basic quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and optics; recommended: PHYS 541.
Instructor Course Description:
Michael V. Romalis
PHYS 532 Liquid Crystal Devices (4)
Physics of liquid crystals and applications to practical display devices. Phases, phase transitions, optical and dielectric properties, molecular and device "engineering," future prospects.
PHYS 536 Introduction to Acoustics and Digital Signal Processing (4) Chaloupka
Introduces mathematical and physics principles of acoustics in digital signal processing applications. Complex analysis and Fourier methods, physics of vibrations and waves, solutions of the wave equation, digital convolution and correlation methods, and Maximum Length Sequence method in signal analysis and spread-spectrum applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 123; MATH 120.
Instructor Course Description:
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 541 Applications of Quantum Physics (4)
Techniques of quantum mechanics applied to lasers, quantum electronics, solids, and surfaces. Emphasis on approximation methods and interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. Prerequisite: PHYS 421 or PHYS 441 or equivalent. Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 542 Numerical Methods in Physics (4)
Numerical methods for analysis and computation in physics. Topics may include integration, differential equations, partial differential equations, optimization, data handling, and Monte Carlo techniques. Emphasis is applications in physics. Prerequisite: 30 credits in physical sciences, computer science, or engineering.
PHYS 543 Electromagnetic Theory (4)
Principal concepts of electromagnetism. Static electric and magnetic fields. Boundary-value problems. Electric and magnetic properties of materials. Electromagnetic waves and radiation. Prerequisite: 30 credits in physical sciences, computer science, or engineering. Offered: A.
PHYS 544 Applications of Electromagnetic Theory (4)
Emphasis may vary from year to year. Topics may include electromagnetic waves, radiation, scattering, wave guides, plasma physics, quantum electronics, and accelerator physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 543 or equivalent.
Instructor Course Description:
Richard Jeffrey Wilkes
PHYS 545 Contemporary Optics (4)
Coordinated lecture and laboratory treatment of topics in contemporary optics. Subjects include Fourier optics, lens systems, interferometry, laser optics, holography, polarization, crystal optics, birefringence, laser and conventional light sources, optical detectors. Prerequisite: PHYS 543 or equivalent.
Instructor Course Description:
Richard Jeffrey Wilkes
PHYS 546 Condensed-Matter Physics (4)
Introduction to the theory of solids: crystal structure in real space and reciprocal space, phonons, free electrons, band theory, semiconductor devices. Prerequisite: PHYS 441 or equivalent.
PHYS 547 Electronics for Physics Research (4)
Electronic techniques as applied in physics research. Topics include noise, control-system analysis, operational amplifiers, lock-in amplifiers, precision power supplies and metering, data transmission, microprocessors. Several integrated measurement systems are examined in the context of specific research problems. Prerequisite: elementary electronics.
PHYS 549 Low-Temperature Physics and Cryogenics (4)
Condensed-matter physics at low and ultralow temperatures. Production of low temperatures; liquefaction of gases, dilution refrigeration, magnetic and compressional cooling. Macroscopic quantum effects: superconductivity, superfluidity. Applications of superconductors. The ultralow temperature frontier.
PHYS 550 Atomic Physics (3)
Theory of atomic structure and spectra; atomic and molecular beams; resonance techniques; atomic collisions; topics of current interest. Prerequisite: PHYS 519.
PHYS 551 Atomic Physics (3)
Theory of atomic structure and spectra; atomic and molecular beams; resonance techniques; atomic collisions; topics of current interest. Prerequisite: PHYS 519.
PHYS 552 Introduction to Cosmic Ray Physics (3)
The nature and cosmological significance of cosmic ray photons and particles. The motion and confinement of particles in the geophysical, interplanetary, and interstellar medium. Theories of the processes involved in the high-energy interaction of cosmic rays, including shower theory. Methods of measurement and current problems. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: introductory quantum mechanics.
PHYS 554 Nuclear Astrophysics (3)
Big bang nucleosynthesis; nuclear reactions in stars; solar neutrinos and neutrino oscillations; core-collapse supernovae; nucleosynthesis in stars, novae, and supernovae; neutron starts; composition and sources of cosmic rays; gamma ray bursts; atmospheric neutrinos. Offered: jointly with ASTR 510; A.
PHYS 555 Cosmology and Particle Astrophysics (3)
Big bang cosmology; relativistic world models and classical tests; background radiation; cosmological implications of nucleosynthesis; baryogenesis; inflation; galaxy and large-scale structure formation; quasars; intergalactic medium; dark matter. Offered: jointly with ASTR 513; W.
PHYS 557 High Energy Physics (3)
First quarter of a three-quarter series. Emphasis on the experimental foundations of particle physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 519; recommended: PHYS 520, which may be taken concurrently. Offered: A.
PHYS 558 High Energy Physics (3)
Second quarter of a three-quarter series. Phenomenology of the standard model of strong and electro-weak interactions, including an introduction to Feynman diagrams. Prerequisite: PHYS 519; recommended: PHYS 520 and PHYS 521, which may be taken concurrently. Offered: W.
PHYS 559 High Energy Physics (3)
Third quarter of a three-quarter series. Topics of current interest in high-energy particle physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 519; recommended: PHYS 520 and 521, which may be taken concurrently. Offered: Sp.
Instructor Course Description:
Joseph E Rothberg
PHYS 560 Theoretical Nuclear Physics (3)
First of a two-part sequence. Nuclear structure, scattering, reactions, and decays in terms of elementary properties of nucleons and current theoretical models. Prerequisite: PHYS 519. Offered: A.
PHYS 561 Theoretical Nuclear Physics (3)
Continuation of PHYS 560. Nuclear structure, scattering, reactions, and decays in terms of elementary properties of nucleons and current theoretical models. Prerequisite: PHYS 519. Offered: W.
Instructor Course Description:
Aurel Bulgac
PHYS 564 General Relativity (3)
First of a two-part sequence. General covariance and tensor analysis, the relativistic theory of gravitation as given by Einstein's field equations, experimental tests and their significance, and applications of general relativity, particularly in the areas of astrophysics and cosmology. Prerequisite: PHYS 515.
PHYS 565 General Relativity (3)
Continuation of PHYS 564. General covariance and tensor analysis, the relativistic theory of gravitation as given by Einstein's field equations, experimental tests and their significance, and applications of general relativity, particularly in the areas of astrophysics and cosmology. Prerequisite: PHYS 515.
PHYS 567 Theory of Solids (3)
First quarter of a course on modern solid state and condensed matter physics, aimed at bringing student’s knowledge up to the level of current literature. Topics include structural, electronic, and vibrational properties; optical response functions and dynamics; transport theory; and cooperative phenomena. Prerequisite: PHYS 519, PHYS 524. Offered: AW.
Instructor Course Description:
David Cobden
PHYS 568 Theory of Solids (3)
Second quarter of a course on modern solid state and condensed matter physics, aimed at bringing the student’s knowledge up to the level of current literature. Additional topics (see PHYS 567) include magnetism, quantum Hall effect, superconductivity. Offered: WSp.
PHYS 570 Quantum Field Theory (3)
Emphasizes either relativistic quantum field theory or the many-body problem. Normally offered on a Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: PHYS 522.
PHYS 571 Quantum Field Theory (3)
Emphasizes either relativistic quantum field theory or the many-body problem. Normally offered on a Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: PHYS 522.
PHYS 572 Modern Quantum Field Theory (3)
Advanced topics in quantum field theory. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: PHYS 570, PHYS 571.
PHYS 575 Selected Topics in Applications of Physics (*, max. 30)
Instructor Course Description:
Larry B Sorensen
Vladimir Chaloupka
PHYS 576 Selected Topics in Experimental Physics (*, max. 30)
Instructor Course Description:
Boris B. Blinov
Nikolai Tolich
PHYS 578 Selected Topics in Theoretical Physics (*, max. 30)
Credit/no credit only.
Instructor Course Description:
David Thouless
PHYS 580 Physics Colloquium (*, max. 30)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 581 Seminar in High-Energy Physics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 582 Seminar in Particle Theory (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 583 Seminar in Relativistic Astrophysics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 584 Seminar in Recent Developments in Atomic Physics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 585 Seminar in Experimental Nuclear Physics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 586 Seminar in Condensed Matter Physics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
Instructor Course Description:
David Cobden
PHYS 587 Seminar in Nuclear Theory (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 588 Particle Astrophysics Seminar (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
Instructor Course Description:
Richard Jeffrey Wilkes
PHYS 589 Seminar in Problems of Physics Education (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 590 Seminar in Statistical Physics (1-3, max. 20)
Credit/no credit only. Offered: AWSp.
PHYS 600 Independent Study or Research (*)
Study or research under the supervision of individual faculty members. Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: permission of supervisor. Offered: AWSpS.
Instructor Course Description:
Michael Schick
PHYS 800 Doctoral Dissertation (*)
Credit/no credit only. Prerequisite: permission of Supervisory Committee chairperson. Offered: AWSpS.
