Physics and Astronomy
Alexey Petrov, Chair
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers several degree programs, including a general major and applied physics tracks, each for a Bachelor of Science. Our department also offers minors in both physics and astronomy. Students have opportunities for hands-on research experience with our world-class faculty, and the program provides a fundamental understanding of both experimental and theoretical physics. Students learn valuable skills, such as organizing data problem-solving and managing projects, which prepare students for a variety of careers, including academia and scientific research.
The bachelor’s degree programs provide students with a strong basis for graduate study in physics. The applied major is designed for those seeking employment by industrial or governmental laboratories upon completing their B.S. Students may also choose electives with the goal of entering graduate study in the sciences, mathematics, medicine or engineering.
Courses
ASTR 101 - Introduction to Astronomy (4 Credits)
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
ASTR 201 - Introduction to Astronomy II: The Dark Universe (3 Credits)
ASTR 320 - Introduction to Radio Astronomy (3 Credits)
ASTR 340 - Introduction to Relativistic Astrophysics (3 Credits)
ASTR 499 - Undergraduate Research (3 Credits)
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
ASTR 533 - Advanced Observational Astronomy (1-3 Credits)
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.
ASTR 534 - Advanced Observational Astronomy (1-3 Credits)
A continuation of ASTR 533. Up to eight hours per week of observation, data reduction, and consultation.
ASTR 599 - Topics in Astronomy (1-3 Credits)
Readings and research on selected topics in astronomy. Course content varies and will be announced in the schedule of classes by title.
PHYS 101 - The Physics of How Things Work I (3 Credits)
A practical introduction to physics and science in everyday life-from concrete examples to basic physical principles.
Carolina Core: SCI
PHYS 101L - The Physics of How Things Work I Lab (1 Credit)
PHYS 102 - The Physics of How Things Work II (3 Credits)
PHYS 102L - The Physics of How Things Work II Lab (1 Credit)
PHYS 151 - Physics in the Arts (3 Credits)
PHYS 151L - Physics in the Arts Laboratory (1 Credit)
PHYS 153 - Physics in the Visual Arts (3 Credits)
PHYS 153L - Physics in the Visual Arts Laboratory (1 Credit)
PHYS 155 - Musical Acoustics (3 Credits)
PHYS 155L - Acoustics Laboratory (1 Credit)
PHYS 199 - Measurement and Analysis in Physics (2 Credits)
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.
Prerequisites: C or better in MATH 115 or equivalent or higher.
PHYS 201 - General Physics I (3 Credits)
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
PHYS 201L - General Physics Laboratory I (1 Credit)
PHYS 202 - General Physics II (3 Credits)
PHYS 202L - General Physics Laboratory II (1 Credit)
PHYS 211 - Essentials of Physics I (3 Credits)
PHYS 211L - Essentials of Physics I Lab (1 Credit)
PHYS 212 - Essentials of Physics II (3 Credits)
PHYS 212L - Essentials of Physics II Lab (1 Credit)
PHYS 291 - Einstein’s Relativity: Understanding by Example (3 Credits)
Special theory of relativity. Algebra-based course for students of all majors.
Prerequisites: B or better in MATH 115 or equivalent.
PHYS 306 - Principles of Physics III (3 Credits)
PHYS 307 - Introduction to Modern Physics (3 Credits)
PHYS 310 - Intermediate Experimental Physics (4 Credits)
PHYS 311 - Introduction to Applied Numerical Methods (3 Credits)
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.
Prerequisites: MATH 141.
Corequisite: MATH 142.
PHYS 340 - Introduction to Relativistic Astrophysics (3 Credits)
PHYS 399 - Independent Study (3-6 Credits)
Contract approved by instructor, advisor, and department chair is required for undergraduate students.
Graduation with Leadership Distinction: GLD: Research
PHYS 498 - Senior Thesis (3 Credits)
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
PHYS 499 - Undergraduate Research (3 Credits)
Introduction to and application of the methods of research. A written report on work accomplished is required at the end of each semester.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 310.
Graduation with Leadership Distinction: GLD: Research
PHYS 501 - Quantum Physics I (3 Credits)
PHYS 502 - Quantum Physics II (3 Credits)
Advanced topics in quantum physics, plus topics in special relativity, high-energy physics, and cosmology.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 501.
PHYS 503 - Mechanics (4 Credits)
PHYS 504 - Electromagnetic Theory (4 Credits)
Field theory of electric and magnetic phenomena; Maxwell's equations applied to problems in electromagnetism and radiation.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 503.
PHYS 506 - Thermal Physics and Statistical Mechanics (3 Credits)
PHYS 511 - Nuclear Physics (4 Credits)
An elementary treatment of nuclear structure, radioactivity, and nuclear reactions. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 501.
PHYS 515 - Mathematical Physics I (3 Credits)
PHYS 516 - Mathematical Physics II (3 Credits)
Group theory, linear second-order differential equations and the properties of the transcendental functions; orthogonal expansions; integral equations; Fourier transformations.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 515.
PHYS 517 - Computational Physics (3 Credits)
PHYS 541 - Advanced Experimental Physics I (4 Credits)
PHYS 542 - Advanced Experimental Physics II (4 Credits)
PHYS 546 - Introduction to Astrophysics (3 Credits)
An astrophysics course for physics students. Covers 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.
Prerequisites: C or better in PHYS 307.
PHYS 599 - Topics in Physics (1-3 Credits)
Readings and research on selected topics in physics. Course content varies and will be announced in the schedule of classes by title.