Physics


Physics 1005 (formerly C055): Light, Art, and Nature
4 credit hours

An introduction to the properties of light, whether interpreted as rays, waves, or photons. Includes a discussion of the basic ideas of geometric and wave optics, with application to the analysis of photography, color, vision, and modern physics. Emphasis is on factors that permit the artist and observer to understand and more fully control the design and interpretation of images of all kinds. Demonstrations, experiments, and video and computer simulations to analyze signals received by the eyes or instruments are part of the course. This course is primarily designed for students interested in the visual arts but is open to anyone. Note, the course requires minimal mathematics.



Physics 1004 (formerly C056): Introduction to Astronomy
4 credit hours

Prerequisite: Physics C053, Physics 1005, or Physics C067

A description of local space, including our solar system, and nearby stars is followed by a discussion of the outer galaxy, the evolution of stars, the universe of galaxies, the red shift, and the big bang. White dwarfs, red giants, pulsars, black holes, and quasars are covered. The treatment is mostly descriptive, utilizing slides, NASA films, and several planetarium trips. No laboratory work is involved.



Note:
Please note: the information contained in these course descriptions is subject to change, and individual courses may be added or deleted as necessary. If you wish to know what specific courses are being offered in a given term, please see the current course schedule.