Physics and Astronomy
Ralf Gothe, Chair
The undergraduate program in physics is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of both experimental and theoretical physics. All of the majors provide a strong basis for graduate study in physics. The applied major is designed for students seeking employment by industrial or governmental laboratories upon completing their B.S. By a suitable choice of electives students will also be prepared for graduate study in the other sciences, mathematics, medicine, or engineering or to enter the University’s special teacher education program that leads to a master’s degree and teacher certification.
Courses
An introduction to the solar system and universe accomplished with interactive lectures, demonstrations, and laboratory experience. Designed primarily for the non-science major.
Carolina Core: SCI
Introduction to and application of the methods of research. A written report on work accomplished is required at the end of each semester.
Graduation with Leadership Distinction: GLD: Research
Development of a combination of observational techniques and facility at reduction of data. A maximum of eight hours per week of observation, data reduction, and consultation. Offered each semester by arrangement with the department.
A continuation of ASTR 533. Up to eight hours per week of observation, data reduction, and consultation.
Readings and research on selected topics in astronomy. Course content varies and will be announced in the schedule of classes by title.
A practical introduction to physics and science in everyday life--from concrete examples to basic physical principles.
Carolina Core: SCI
Measurements in classical and modern physics are performed, and the analyzed results are compared with basic principles. Four hours of mixed lecture and laboratory per week.
First part of an introductory course sequence. Topics include mechanics, and selections from wave motion, sound, fluids, and heat. No previous background in physics is assumed.
Carolina Core: SCI
Special theory of relativity. Algebra-based course for students of all majors.
Further experiments which have contributed to an understanding of basic concepts. One lecture/recitation and one three-hour laboratory period each week.
Descriptive statistics, scientific ethics, and design, construction, and reporting the results of experiments.
Introduction and application of linear algebra and numerical methods to the solution of physical and engineering problems. Techniques include iterative solution techniques, methods of solving systems of equations, and numerical integration and differentiation.
Contract approved by instructor, advisor, and department chair is required for undergraduate students.
Graduation with Leadership Distinction: GLD: Research
An individual investigation in the library or laboratory or both under supervision of the major professor. The preparation of a scientific report is an integral part of the work.
Graduation with Leadership Distinction: GLD: Research
Advanced topics in quantum physics, plus topics in special relativity, high-energy physics, and cosmology.
Field theory of electric and magnetic phenomena; Maxwell's equations applied to problems in electromagnetism and radiation.
Principles of equilibrium thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and introductory statistical mechanics.
Topics include: basic electrical circuits; electronic processes in solids; operation and application of individual solid state devices and integrated circuits. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Basic operation of digital integrated circuits including microprocessors. Laboratory application of microcomputers to physical measurements.
An elementary treatment of nuclear structure, radioactivity, and nuclear reactions. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Crystal structure; lattice dynamics; thermal, dielectric, and magnetic properties of solids. Free electron model of metals. Band structure of solids, semi-conductor physics. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Geometrical and physical optics; wave nature of light, lenses and optical instruments, interferometers, gratings, thin films, polarization, coherence, spatial filters, and holography. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Analytical function theory including complex analysis, theory of residues, and saddlepoint method; Hilbert space, Fourier series; elements of distribution theory; vector and tensor analysis with tensor notation.
Group theory, linear second-order differential equations and the properties of the transcendental functions; orthogonal expansions; integral equations; Fourier transformations.
A laboratory program designed to develop a combination of experimental technique and application of the principles acquired in formal course work. A maximum of eight hours per week of laboratory and consultation.
A continuation of PHYS 531. Up to eight hours per week of laboratory and consultation.
This is an astrophysics course for physics students. The course will cover the basics of observational techniques, structure and evolution of stars, interstellar medium and star formation, structure and properties of the Milky Way and nearby galaxies, and generation and transfer of radiation in astrophysical environments.
Readings and research on selected topics in physics. Course content varies and will be announced in the schedule of classes by title.