Physics for Science and Engineering III

Physics 112

Fall 2008

Text: Physics For Scientists and Engineers (6^th edition including the Modern Physics chapters through Ch. 46), by Raymond A. Serway and John W. Jewett (Brooks/Cole, Philadelphia, 2004) (required). Laboratory manual edited by B. K. Clark (required). Online computer manual.

Course Objective: In this course you will be introduced to the physics of waves (including mechanical, sound, and electromagnetic), geometric optics, special relativity, and quantum mechanics.

Grading: Your grade is determined by a combination of tests, homework, and classroom (laboratory) performance. There will be three tests throughout the semester plus a comprehensive final test, eleven web based quizzes, five computer projects, and five laboratory experiments. You are expected to complete all of the assigned work. In general, there are no make-up times for any of the assigned work. If a test is missed then your right to a make-up is determined on a case by case basis. It is better to let the instructor know in advance if you will miss a test. One laboratory score will be dropped to allow for possible absences. Short of major illnesses, there are very few reasons why the work cannot otherwise be completed, since you will have ample time to complete each task. Your in class performance can affect your grade. This is a subjective determination and should be kept to a minimum.

The final grade for the course is determined according to

Homework: Homework problems will be assigned throughout the semester. The reliable technique for learning to do physics is to work as many problems as possible. So, do these assigned problems and any others for which you have time. A good way to study is to work together. At quiz and test time you have to be able to work problems on your own, so do not rely only on group solutions.

Laboratory Work: Laboratory work will be separated into computer labs and experimental labs. You must do all computer labs and four experimental labs for full credit. The fifth experimental lab score is dropped only if your score on it is at least 70 % of your average on the other experimental labs. Late reports are penalized at a rate of 1 point per day. See the laboratory instructor for specific due dates and times for each report.

Web Quizzes: There will be an online web quiz each week, with the exception of the first week of class and any week in which a regular test is scheduled. The quizzes consist of five multiple choice questions randomly selected from a question bank. You may retake a quiz as many times as you wish before the deadline, so that you may earn the highest possible grade.

Tests: Tests are generally given during the laboratory period to allow enough time that you are not rushed. The first three tests cover material from the previous few weeks, while the final test will be split between the last few weeks of the course and a comprehensive component.

Attendance: Your attendance is expected and required at all class times and laboratory times. See the instructor for exceptions.

Prerequisites: Physics 111 and Math 147 (or concurrent registration) are the prerequisites for this course.

Course Outline: The following is a tentative list of material to be covered, homework problems, and laboratory exercises.

Final Note: You are responsible for any material covered in the class whether you are present or not present. Only your own work will contribute toward your grade. Cell phones, networking devices, and other personal electronic items should be turned off and placed out of sight during class. Their presence during tests will be treated as cheating. See the instructor for any exceptions.