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PHYSICS/ASTRO COURSES OFFERED WITHOUT PREREQUISITE

These courses are not intended for students planning to major in the natural sciences or mathematics. They are offered without scientific prerequisite and involve limited use of mathematics--straightforward algebra and trigonometry, only.

INTRODUCTORY SEQUENCE AND PLACEMENT

Haverford offers two separate fall-spring, year-long, introductions to physics:
  • Physics 101a and Physics 102b is a track for students desiring a year-long,
    self-contained treatment of all of physics (including 20th century physics).
  • Physics 105a and Physics 106b is offered for those students likely to take more than two
    semesters of physics. 20th century physics beyond Einstein's theory of relativity
    is not covered--these topics are treated in great depth elsewhere in the curriculum
    and therefore this sequence goes into somewhat greater depth in mechanics and electromagnetism.
  • Physics 152i is a half credit seminar on modern topics in astrophysics intended for physical science majors. While it is not required for physics majors and minors, many students elect to take this course in the second semester of their freshman year. Physics 105 (or 101) is a prerequisite and Physics 106 (or 102) is a co-requisite.

Both courses use calculus. Physics 101 has calculus as a co-requisite, while calculus is a prerequisite for Physics 105a because the use of calculus in that course is somewhat more extensive. The same laboratory is associated with both courses.

The sequences also differ somewhat in emphasis. Physics 101a and Physics 102b include a greater focus on applications, primarily drawn from the life sciences. Mathematical techniques and ideas relevant to Astronomy are covered more extensively in Physics 105a and Physics 106b.

Either sequence constitutes suitable preparation for further work in physics, so that students who discover an interest in majoring while taking Physics 101a and Physics 102b can do so. Sample programs showing how the requirements are fulfilled under various scenarios can be obtained from your faculty advisor or the Chair of the department.

The department recommends a physics placement for all freshmen who fill out the placement questionnaire/exam. These recommendations will be posted the day following the placement exam. Any questions may be directed to the chair of the department.

The sequence for physics majors continues in the sophomore year with two more courses, Physics 213a and Physics 214b, and half-credit labs Physics 211 and 212:

  • Physics 213a - Waves and Optics Oscillations, waves, optics and related
    mathematical methods, with electronics and optics lab Physics 211
  • Physics 214b - Introductory Quantum Mechanics Modern Physics, quantum
    mechanics and applications; with modern physics lab, Physics 212

THE ASTRONOMY SEQUENCE

Students interested in majoring in Astronomy follow the physics sequence at least through 213 and more often through 214, and also take (generally in their sophomore years). The department also offers a 1/2 credit course, Astronomy/Physics 152i, intended for first year students who are considering a physical science major and wish the opportunity to study some of the most recent developments in astrophysics. This course is recommended, but not required, for majors.

In the junior and senior years astronomy majors take a variety of upper-level physics and astronomy courses. Students interested in a career in astronomical research are advised to study a great deal of physics as well and therefore usually complete a double major.