The discoveries and the methods of analysis that are the basis of Twentieth
Century Physics have dominated our lives and in many cases set the tone of our
intellectual debate. Discoveries from quantum mechanics are the basis for all
the current work in the development of modern materials and in modern electronics
devices such as transistors. The modern view of space-time is a rich structure
that allows for marvelous objects such as black holes and even allows a solid
basis for our understanding of the origin of the universe. Unfortunately, in
most undergraduate University curricula, this material is not covered. This
omission is usually due to the need to prepare the students in both the requisite
classical physics and mathematics as a background for other course work. This
course covers the modern subjects without the use of sophisticated mathematics
but in a coherent and correct presentation of the modern physics. The emphasis
in the course will be on the conceptual development of the ideas. The course
begins with a general review of several of the basic ideas that are relevant
to all of physics but quickly relates them to discoveries made in the twentieth
century. We start the discussion of the current approach to microscopic matter.
Beginning with Planck's work on black body radiation and the Einstein on the
photoelectric effect, we will develop the modern theory of light and matter.
From this we will study the modern theory of space and time. This is covered
using the geometrical concepts to outline the basic ideas of special and general
relativity. This is followed by a descriptive analysis of some of the more spectacular
of the objects predicted by these theories. If time allows, this will be followed
by connecting the two threads of space time and quantum mechanics will. Again
the emphasis in all our discussion is on conceptual foundations. In addition,
the content of the course allows for discussions of important philosophical
issues such as "What is energy and matter?" and significantly the
role of mathematics.
The course is being taught by Professor Austin M. Gleeson
of the Department of Physics. It is described in a First
Class Handout. It has two lectures a week; a syllabus
is available. There are notes available for the
class at the Coop and on the web. Each student must also attend one discussion
section per week. There is homework every week consisting of assigned problems and
take-home laboratories. Some of the problems and all of the laboratories deal
with general science competency. There is a list of "Things
that everyone should know." In addition, there a description of the
physics that you should know before taking this course. There is also a set of notes
that includes some of the above material but is also summary of the material
covered by the course. There are two quizzes and
a final. There is also a requirement for a book
report. A reading list is available. Old
quizzes are available. Students with a weak background in physics from high
school are encouraged to take the special section of Phy 306 for Plan II students
before enrolling in this course.