2024-2025 Academic Catalog 
    
    Nov 14, 2024  
2024-2025 Academic Catalog

PHYS 130 - Oscillations, Waves and Optics


The third of a four-semester introductory survey of physics. The seminar meets for three hours per week plus an afternoon laboratory. Oscillations and harmonic motion, wave phenomena such as interference, diffraction and standing waves, plus ray and wave optics are some of the topics covered. Key experiments include studies of mechanical, acoustic and optical waves, wave resonance in oscillating systems, construction of optical instruments, and measurement of the speed of light. Prepares the student for the study of quantum systems in PHYS 131 .

Prerequisites:  PHYS 121  

Corequisites: MATH 130  

Course Designation/Attribute: SP

Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall