PHYS& 116 - General Phys III w/Lab

5 Credits

The study of unifying principles pertaining to simple harmonic motion, wave propagation, physical and geometric optics, sound, heat transfer, and the conversion of heat to work. Additional modern physics topics based on student interest may be included. An algebra-based approach to physics especially for students in life sciences, allied health, environmental science and geology. Includes one credit of laboratory.

Pre-requisite(s) PHYS& 114, PHYS& 115, MATH& 142 and ENGL& 101 with a minimum grade of 2.0
Course Note Intended for students whose programs accept algebra-based physics. Students pursuing chemistry, computer science, engineering and physics degrees should take the calculus-based physics sequence (physics 200 series).
FeesPhysics Fee Science Lab Support Fee

Quarters Typically Offered
Spring Day

Designed to Serve Students in life sciences, allied health, environmental science and geology.
Active Date 20260408T15:02:57

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 24
Shared Learning Environment Yes
Contact Hours: Lecture 44 Lab 22
Total Contact Hours 66
Degree Distributions:
AA

Natural Science
Natural Science Lab
Science

Course Outline

Simple harmonic motion and damping
Traveling waves
Applications of traveling waves in ultrasound science and geophysics. Optionally other applications in ecology and biology may be covered based on student interest
Superposition of waves, standing waves, two source interference
Physical optics
Geometric optics
Human eyes and optical instruments
Laws of thermodynamics
Work and heat engines
Phase changes and the ideal gas law
Optional modern physics topics based on student interest, such as nuclear or atomic physics, relativity, astrophysics, or quantum phenomena.

Student Learning Outcomes
Apply the fundamentals of physics to quantitatively and qualitatively solve problems in simple harmonic motion, wave propagation, wave interference and diffraction, ray optics, wave and particle optics, laws of thermodynamics, and heat engines, with modern physics as an optional topic.

Interpret and translate a conceptual description of a physical context (with or without a visual representation) into its mathematical expression.

Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, problem solving methods and results, the reasoning and assumptions behind the choice of method/model, and implications of the results in the specific physical context.

Clearly and accurately communicate experiment data, procedures and results in proper scientific format, both written and graphical.

Accurately analyze and interpret data and measurements to draw valid conclusions.

Collaborate effectively in applying course specific content to problem-solving, designing experiments, data collection and data analysis.

Analyze and explain how physics concepts apply to the natural world and everyday phenomena, integrating knowledge from previous courses and independent research.