Weekly Distribution:
- Lecture (4 hours)
- Lab (2 hours)
Classroom time will be divided between the presentation, demonstrations and discussion of concepts and the application of those concepts in problem solving. The laboratory program will involve weekly sessions during which students will perform a set number of experiments. Some group work will be required. Some of the work will be done online.
- The history and predictive ability of theory
- Atomic theory of matter
- Motion
- Change in motion
- Newton's Law of Gravitation
- Work-Energy Theorem
- Thermodynamics
- Light and global warming
- Special Relativity
- The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)
- Nuclear physics
Laboratory Experiments
- Investigating the historical roots of science
- Graphing lab
- Introduction to motion data analysis
- Laws of motion
- Gravitation
- Work and energy
- Heat and temperature
- Properties of light
- Radioactivity
Upon completion of the course the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the following concepts and procedures through the solution of problems involving a variety of physical quantities.
- Explain how experimental observations determine the validity of a theory
- Describe the history of the accepted models of an atom and an atomic nucleus
- Define and distinguish between speed, velocity and acceleration
- Apply Newton's laws of motion by specifying the role of inertia in interactions between bodies
- Apply Newton’s law of universal gravitation
- Explain the principles behind the use of simple machines
- Apply the law of conservation of energy and the work-energy theorem
- Define heat and temperature
- Explain and apply the laws of thermodynamics
- Describe light and the electromagnetic spectrum
- Explain how trace gases interaction with light affects climate
- State the postulates of Special Relativity
- Define mass-energy equivalence
- Define necessary ingredients for life on the other worlds
- Define and differentiate between nuclear fission, fusion, radioactivity
- Perform laboratory experiments and analyze the data obtained using appropriate graphing techniques, scientific notation, and significant figures.
Evaluation will be carried out in accordance with Douglas College Evaluation policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester.
Evaluation will be based on the following:
- final exam/final project 30%-40%
- term tests (minimum of two tests) 20%-30%
- laboratory experiments - minimum of nine labs 20%-30%
- quizzes and/or assignments (possibly online) 10% - 20%
Consult the Douglas College bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials.
Example textbooks and materials may include
Urone P. and Hinrichs R., College Physics, OpenStax (current edition)
Douglas College Physics Department, Physics for Liberal Arts - PHYS 1234 Laboratory Manual (current edition)