PHYS 237 - Intro to Modern Physics

Text:              Modern Physics for Scientists and Engineers (2^nd ed.) by J. Taylor, C. Zafiratos, and M. Dubson

Instructor:     Michael R. Cohen

                        (717) 477-1113; (717) 477-4081 (Fax)

                        mrcohe@ship.edu; http://physics.ship.edu/~mrc/pfs/308/chapter.htm

Course Content

This course introduces you to some of the major changes that have occurred in physics since the end of the 19th century. Topics that may be covered during this term include relativity, basic quantum physics, atomic and molecular physics, solid state physics, and nuclear physics. The mathematics proficiency assumed is that of college calculus and some work in differential equations.

Class Procedures

Class attendance is not mandatory. You are, however, fully responsible for all the material covered. I do not look for excused absences or take attendance, after the first class period. Make-up exams will not be offered except for unusual circumstances.

Homework problems will not be collected, but you will need to work at them on your own. Use much of your study time to work the problems in your text, and watch your units! Whether you choose to read every word of your text is not nearly as important as working through the example problems laid out in your book. The measure of whether you understand the material is found in your ability to answer the questions and solve the problems at the end of each chapter (and not just the easiest ones).

Many people find it helpful to meet regularly in small study groups to discuss the current lecture topics and compare notes on solving the related problems. Discussion groups are a very effective way of learning other people's approach to a question, but require equal efforts from all group members. I highly recommend this approach.

If you have questions, please ask me for help.

Grading

There will be three or four exams, each of equal weight. All of the exams may be considered cumulative. Letter grades will be assigned with 90%=A, 80%=B, 70%=C and 60%=D.

Note to students with disabilities: It is Penn State’s policy not to discriminate against qualified students with documented disabilities in its educational programs. If you have a disability related need for modifications in this course, contact your instructor and the Disability Service Coordinator in the Student Assistance Center (W117, Olmsted, ext. 6025). Instructors should be notified during the first week of classes.