Physics 105: Fundamental Physics I
Physics in the 21st century is a vital and active field of study in its own right, leading us to new ways of thinking about the history of the universe, the structure of matter and space at high energies, new classes of materials at the nanoscale and the collective motion of everything from atoms and molecules to microorganisms and robots. Our understanding of the physical world has enabled entirely novel approaches to biology and chemistry, computing, utilization of energy resources, and medical imaging. Let's spend this year not only learning the tools we need to start our studies in physics (here in Physics 105, mechanics and thermal properties of matter), but also seeing how they go to work in these exciting contexts.
This course is primarily about the mechanical world – the world of motion and acceleration, of spinning windmills and orbiting asteroids, of energy and momentum, of car crashes and exploding nuclei. It is also about the vibrations and waves that surround us, from sound to surf, from car suspensions to the oscillating cantilevers used for nanometer-scale imaging; we will meet these last topics here briefly, then return to them in physics 213a. We will also study thermal properties of materials, and elementary thermodynamics, including ideas of heat transfer, entropy, and maximal efficiency of engines: the foundations required to understand energy generation and conservation, including wind power, hydroelectric power, solar power, geothermal power, and others.
You should expect this course to be very challenging. However, if you are willing to put in the required effort, you will find it immensely satisfying. You will learn from your fellow students, and you will teach them. You will have multiple opportunities to show me how much you understand through many assessment routes. We will work hard together, and we will have fun together. Let the physics adventure begin!
Syllabus Blackboard (all homework, etc.) Lab website
Instructors
Suzanne Amador Kane (lecture) KINSC L103 (610) 896-1198 samador@haverford.edu |
Scott Shelley (lab) KINSC L207 (610) 896-1310 sshelley@haverford.edu |
Walter Smith (lab) KINSC L110 (610) 896-1332 wsmith@haverford.edu |
Feedback, getting & staying in touch
Electronic mail is always welcome. I will occasionally send you email and announcements. As a participant in this course, you are required to check your e-mail daily for corrections about problem sets, etc.
A good way to get together is to arrange (after class) a mutually agreeable time. Please do not hesitate to contact me; no question or topic is too small.
If you have concerns about the course or ideas about how to make it better, you should let me know immediately, either in person or by e-mail. Don't wait!
Lecture location & times
MWF 11:30-12:30, KINSC Hilles 109 (note new room!)+ optional recitation (to be scheduled)
Lab location & times
KINSC Harris 105, Tuesday or Wednesday 1:15-4:00 (roughly every other week)
Textbook
Physics for Scientists & Engineers, 3rd Ed., by Wolfson & Pasachoff (We still like this book best as a core text on this topic. While this book just went out of print, we have stockpiled copies in the book store and you can find additional copies online, and probably for less than new ones!)
Physics Clinic (help on homework, exam prep, etc.)
Optional help sessions led by physics student TA's in KINSC Harris 107 (Physics Lounge), Wednesday & Thursday 7 to 10pm weekly