The electromagnetic force, one of the fundamental interactions in nature, is responsible for a remarkably wide range of phenomena and technologies, from the structures of atoms and molecules to the transmission of nerve impulses and the characteristics of integrated circuits. This introductory course begins with the study of Coulomb's law of electrostatics and progresses through investigations of electric fields, electric potential energy, magnetic fields, and Faraday's law of magnetic induction. The course culminates in the study of light, where the deep connections between electricity and magnetism are highlighted. Interference effects caused by the electromagnetic wave nature of light are introduced.
Because this course does not have a lab, it does not typically satisfy the pre-health requirements.
Units: 1
Max Enrollment: 24
Prerequisites: PHYS 107 (or PHYS 104 with permission of the instructor) and calculus at the level of MATH 116, or MATH 120, or permission of the instructor. Not open to students who have taken PHYS 106.
Instructor: Lewis
Distribution Requirements: NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences; MM - Mathematical Modeling and Problem Solving
Typical Periods Offered: Spring; Fall
Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring; Fall
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