Chairperson: Benjamin L. Brown, Ph.D.
Department of Physics website
The Physics Department at Marquette offers courses that prepare students for graduate study in physics as well as employment and further study in a variety of fields. Students achieve a general understanding of leading edge computational, theoretical and experimental approaches to explaining diverse natural phenomena from sub atomic particles to exotic stars and galaxies. The methods of physics develop powerful problem solving skills that find application in many disciplines. Physics graduates can go on to graduate study in areas as diverse as medicine, law, engineering and finance, as well as mainstream areas of physics such as particle physics, astrophysics, solid state, atomic and molecular physics. Minors are offered in Astrophysics and Biophysics.
Major in Physics
The major in physics consists of a common physics core: one physics sequence of two courses (8credit hours), five required physics courses (14 credit hours) for a total of 22 credit hours. In addition, 8 credit hours of upper division physics electives complete the major, for a total of 30 credit hours. Physics majors must also complete four required mathematics courses (16 credit hours) and two chemistry courses (8 credit hours) for a total of 24 credit hours of background course work.
Note:
- Students may develop areas of concentration that prepare them for specific careers. These concentrations build on the foundation of the common physics core. Students should refer to the section, Areas of Concentration in Physics.
| Common Physics Core: 22 credit hours | ||
| Required Physics Sequence: Choose one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics 1 and General Physics 2 | ||
| General Physics with Introductory Calculus 1 and General Physics with Introductory Calculus 2 | ||
| Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1 and Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2 | ||
| Required Physics Courses: | ||
| PHYS 2004 | Modern Physics: Atoms, Particles, and Quanta | 3 |
| PHYS 2005 | Modern Physics: The States of Matter | 3 |
| PHYS 2055 | Electronics Lab | 2 |
| PHYS 3011 | Classical Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 4031 | Electricity and Magnetism 1 | 3 |
| Electives: Upper-division Physics courses: | 8 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 30 | |
Note:
- PHYS 1013 Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1 and PHYS 1014 Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2 are studio style courses recommended for students considering a physics major.
| Additional Mathematics and Chemistry Course Requirements: | ||
| Mathematics Courses: | ||
| MATH 1450 | Calculus 1 | 4 |
| MATH 1451 | Calculus 2 | 4 |
| MATH 2450 | Calculus 3 | 4 |
| MATH 2451 | Differential Equations | 4 |
| Chemistry Courses: | ||
| CHEM 1001 | General Chemistry 1 | 4 |
| CHEM 1002 | General Chemistry 2 | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 24 | |
Typical Program for Physics Majors
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| ENGL 1001 | 3 | ENGL 1002 | 3 |
| Foreign Language | 3-4 | Foreign Language | 3-4 |
| MATH 1450 | 4 | MATH 1451 | 4 |
| PHYS 1013 | 4 | PHYS 1014 | 4 |
| PHYS 1018 | 0 | ||
| 14-15 | 14-15 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| CHEM 1001 | 4 | CHEM 1002 | 4 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| HIST 1001 or 1002 | 3 | MATH 2451 | 4 |
| MATH 2450 | 4 | PHYS 2005 | 3 |
| PHYS 2004 | 3 | PHYS 2055 | 2 |
| 17 | 16 | ||
| Junior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| Elective | 3 | Diverse Cultures elective | 3 |
| PHIL 1001 | 3 | PHIL 2310 | 3 |
| PHYS 3011 | 3 | Social-Behavioral Science | 3 |
| PHYS 4031 | 3 | Physics electives | 8 |
| THEO 1001 | 3 | ||
| Literature | 3 | ||
| 18 | 17 | ||
| Senior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| Philosophy (upper division) | 3 | Literature | 3 |
| History/Social Science | 3 | Electives | 11 |
| Theology | 3 | Theology (third level) | 3 |
| Electives | 6 | ||
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Total credit hours: 128-130 | |||
For Students Considering Graduate Study in Physics:
To meet admission expectations for graduate study in physics, students should complete the common physics core for the major in physics listed above, in addition to the following recommended curriculum.
| Physics Courses: | ||
| PHYS 3056 | Contemporary Physics Lab 1 | 2 |
| PHYS 4012 | Quantum Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 4024 | Modern Optics | 3 |
| PHYS 4032 | Electricity and Magnetism 2 | 3 |
| PHYS 4057 | Contemporary Physics Lab 2 | 2 |
| PHYS 4062 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3 |
| Mathematics Course: | ||
| MATH 4210 | Complex Variables | 3 |
| Additional Course: 3 credit hours in upper-division MATH or | 3 | |
| Mathematical Methods for Physicists | ||
| Total Credit Hours | 22 | |
Minor in Physics
The minor in physics consists of a total of 20 credit hours: one required physics sequence (8 credit hours) and 12 credit hours in physics elective courses as listed below:
| Required Physics Sequence: Choose one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics 1 and General Physics 2 | ||
| General Physics with Introductory Calculus 1 and General Physics with Introductory Calculus 2 | ||
| Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1 and Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2 | ||
| Electives: Choose 12 credit hours of Physics courses | 12 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 20 | |
Department of Public Instruction Certification
To pursue Department of Public Instruction certification, College of Education students should complete the following requirements which consist of a total of 22 credit hours: one required physics sequence (8 credit hours), three required physics courses (9 credit hours) and 5 credit hours in physics elective courses as listed below:
| Required Physics Sequence: Choose one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics 1 and General Physics 2 | ||
| General Physics with Introductory Calculus 1 and General Physics with Introductory Calculus 2 | ||
| Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1 and Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2 | ||
| Required Physics Courses: | ||
| PHYS 1009 | Earth and Environmental Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 2004 | Modern Physics: Atoms, Particles, and Quanta | 3 |
| PHYS 2005 | Modern Physics: The States of Matter | 3 |
| Electives: Choose 5 credit hours of Physics courses | 5 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 22 | |
Minor in Astronomy
The Astronomy Minor is intended for students who are interested in learning about modern astronomy and astrophysics.
NON-PHYSICS MAJORS: the minor in astronomy requires one introductory physics sequences (8 credit hours) and four required physics courses (12 credit hours) for a total of 20 credit hours as listed below:
| Required Physics Sequence: Choose one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics 1 and General Physics 2 | ||
| General Physics with Introductory Calculus 1 and General Physics with Introductory Calculus 2 | ||
| Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1 and Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2 | ||
| Required Physics Courses: | ||
| PHYS 1008 | Astronomy and Space Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 2004 | Modern Physics: Atoms, Particles, and Quanta | 3 |
| PHYS 3021 | Introduction to Theoretical Astrophysics | 3 |
| PHYS 3022 | Introduction to Observational Astronomy | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 20 | |
Note:
- Students who complete PHYS 1001 and PHYS 1002 must also take the math requisites for PHYS 1003 and PHYS 1004 (MATH 1450 and 1451) in order to meet the mathematics level of PHYS 3021 and PHYS 3022.
PHYSICS MAJORS: the minor in astronomy requires the following, taken under the guidance of one of our astronomy/astrophysics faculty with a topic being in the realm of astronomy or astrophysics. Note that the PHYS 4931 Topics in Contemporary Physics course is then used for the astronomy minor requirement and may not then be used for a physics major elective course requirement. The astronomy minor for a physics major requires a total of 12 credit hours beyond the physics major requirements.
| Required Courses: | ||
| PHYS 1008 | Astronomy and Space Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 3021 | Introduction to Theoretical Astrophysics | 3 |
| PHYS 3022 | Introduction to Observational Astronomy | 3 |
| PHYS 4931 | Topics in Contemporary Physics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 12 | |
Minor in Biophysics
Biophysics is concerned with the application of the concepts and methods of physics to the solution of biological problems and to the understanding of biological processes. Students who complete the biophysics minor achieve a grasp of physics as it relates to solving biological problems, a general understanding of the nature of biological problems and of proteins and cell membranes in particular and of several techniques based on physics principles that are used in biological investigations.
Additional cognate requirements for the minor are one year each of introductory biology, chemistry and physics and the following:
| Introduction to Organic Chemistry - One of the following: | 2-8 | |
| Organic Chemistry 1 and Organic Chemistry 2 | ||
| or | ||
| Organic Chemistry for Majors 1 and Organic Chemistry for Majors 2 | ||
| or | ||
| Organic Chemistry for the Health Sciences | ||
| Differential and Integral Calculus | 3-4 | |
| Calculus for the Biological Sciences | ||
| or | ||
| Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 | ||
| Course requirements: | ||
| PHYS 4046 | The Physical Basis of Biological Structure and Function (or equivalent by consent of Physics Dept) | 3 |
| PHYS 4065 | Experimental Methods in Molecular Biophysics | 3 |
| PHYS 3953 | Biophysics Seminar | 1 |
| PHYS 3995 | Undergraduate Research | 1-3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 13-22 | |
Areas of Concentration
Students may use their electives to develop concentrations that prepare them for specific careers. These concentrations build on the foundation of the common physics core as well as the background course work in mathematics and chemistry. Students should refer to the requirements listed under Major in Physics. Students should also consult with their pre-professional adviser for specifics regarding the various medical and dental school admission requirements. Several possible concentrations are outlined below.
Pre-medical/Pre-dental Concentration for Physics Majors
To pursue medical or dental professional studies, students should follow the pre-medical/pre-dental concentration or the physics in medicine concentration. The pre-medical/pre-dental concentration consists of the common physics core (22 credit hours in physics), background course work in mathematics (16 credit hours) and chemistry (8 credit hours), in addition to the courses listed below:
| Biology Courses: | ||
| BIOL 1001 | General Biology 1 | 3 |
| BIOL 1002 | General Biology 2 | 3 |
| BIOL 2001 | Principles of Biological Investigation | 3 |
| Chemistry Courses: | ||
| CHEM 2113 | Organic Chemistry for Majors 1 | 4 |
| CHEM 2114 | Organic Chemistry for Majors 2 | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 17 | |
Typical Program for Physics Majors - Pre-medical/Pre-dental Concentration
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| BIOL 1001 | 3 | BIOL 2001 | 3 |
| ENGL 1001 | 3 | ENGL 1002 | 3 |
| MATH 1450 | 4 | MATH 1451 | 4 |
| PHYS 1013 | 4 | PHYS 1014 | 4 |
| PHYS 1018 | 0 | ||
| 14 | 14 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| CHEM 1001 | 4 | BIOL 1002 | 3 |
| Foreign Language | 3-4 | CHEM 1002 | 4 |
| MATH 2450 | 4 | Foreign Language | 3-4 |
| PHYS 2004 | 3 | MATH 2451 | 4 |
| Social-Behavioral Science | 3 | PHYS 2005 | 3 |
| 17-18 | 17-18 | ||
| Junior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| CHEM 2113 | 4 | BIOL 4101* | 3 |
| HIST 1001 or 1002 | 3 | CHEM 2114 | 4 |
| Literature | 3 | Physics elective | 3 |
| PHIL 1001 | 3 | PHIL 2310 | 3 |
| PHYS 3011 | 3 | THEO 1001 | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Senior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| Elective | 3 | Literature | 3 |
| Philosophy (upper division) | 3 | History/Social-Behavioral Science | 3 |
| PHYS 4031 | 3 | Physics elective | 3 |
| PHYS 2055 | 2 | Theology (third level) | 3 |
| Physics elective | 3 | Electives | 3 |
| Theology (second level) | 3 | Diverse Cultures elective | 3 |
| 17 | 18 | ||
| Total credit hours: 129-131 | |||
Physics in Medicine Concentration (Research)
The physics in medicine concentration, which is recommended for students interested in biomedical research, consists of the common physics core (22 credit hours in physics), background course work in mathematics (16 credit hours) and chemistry (8 credit hours), in addition to the courses listed below:
| Biology Courses: | ||
| BIOL 1001 | General Biology 1 | 3 |
| BIOL 1002 | General Biology 2 | 3 |
| BIOL 2001 | Principles of Biological Investigation | 3 |
| Chemistry Courses: | ||
| CHEM 2113 | Organic Chemistry for Majors 1 | 4 |
| CHEM 2114 | Organic Chemistry for Majors 2 | 4 |
| Mathematics Course: | ||
| MATH 4720 | Statistical Methods | 3 |
| Physics Course: | ||
| PHYS 3953 | Biophysics Seminar | 1 |
| Physics electives should include: | ||
| PHYS 4012 | Quantum Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 4032 | Electricity and Magnetism 2 | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 27 | |
Typical Program for Physics Majors - Medicine Concentration
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| BIOL 1001 | 3 | BIOL 2001 | 3 |
| ENGL 1001 | 3 | ENGL 1002 | 3 |
| MATH 1450 | 4 | MATH 1451 | 4 |
| PHYS 1013 | 4 | PHYS 1014 | 4 |
| PHYS 1018 | 0 | ||
| 14 | 14 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| CHEM 1001 | 4 | BIOL 1002 | 3 |
| Foreign Language | 3-4 | CHEM 1002 | 4 |
| MATH 2450 | 4 | Foreign Language | 3-4 |
| PHYS 2004 | 3 | MATH 2451 | 4 |
| Social-Behavioral Science | 3 | PHYS 2005 | 3 |
| 17-18 | 17-18 | ||
| Junior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| CHEM 2113 | 4 | BIOL 4101* | 3 |
| HIST 1001 or 1002 | 3 | CHEM 2114 | 4 |
| Literature | 3 | History/Social Science | 3 |
| PHIL 1001 | 3 | PHIL 2310 | 3 |
| PHYS 3011 | 3 | THEO 1001 | 3 |
| Biophysics Seminar* | 1 | Biophysics Seminar* | |
| 17 | 16 | ||
| Senior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| Literature | 3 | Philosophy elective | 3 |
| MATH 4720 | 3 | PHYS 4012 | 3 |
| PHYS 4031 | 3 | PHYS 4032* | 3 |
| PHYS 2055 | 2 | Theology (third level) | 3 |
| Theology (second level) | 3 | Biophysics Seminar* | 1 |
| Biophysics Seminar* | 1 | Physics elective | 2-3 |
| COSC-database* | 3 | Diverse Cultures elective | 3 |
| 18 | 18-19 | ||
| Total credit hours: 131-134 | |||
Computational Physics Concentration
The computational physics concentration serves to develop competence in using the computer as a scientific tool. It consists of the common physics core (22 credit hours in physics), background course work in mathematics (16 credit hours) and chemistry (8 credit hours), in addition to the courses listed below:
| Mathematics Course: | ||
| MATH 3100 | Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory | 3 |
| Computer Science Courses: | ||
| COSC 1010 | Introduction to Computer Programming | 4 |
| COSC 1020 | Object-Oriented Software Design | 4 |
| COSC 2100 | Data Structures and Algorithms 1 | 3 |
| COSC 2200 | Hardware Systems | 3 |
| And two additional upper-level COSC courses. | 6 | |
| One physics elective course: | ||
| PHYS 2049 | Computational Physics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 26 | |
Typical Program for Physics Majors - Computational Physics Concentration
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| ENGL 1001 | 3 | ENGL 1002 | 3 |
| Foreign Language | 3-4 | Foreign Language | 3-4 |
| MATH 1450 | 4 | MATH 1451 | 4 |
| PHYS 1013 | 4 | PHYS 1014 | 4 |
| PHYS 1018 | 0 | ||
| 14-15 | 14-15 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| COSC 1010 | 4 | COSC 1020 | 4 |
| HIST 1001 or 1002 | 3 | History/Social Science | 3 |
| MATH 2450 | 4 | MATH 2451 | 4 |
| PHYS 2004 | 3 | PHYS 2005 | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 17 | 17 | ||
| Junior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| COSC 2200 | 3 | COSC 2100 | 3 |
| PHIL 1001 | 3 | PHIL 2310 | 3 |
| MATH 3100 | 3 | PHYS 3056 | 2 |
| PHYS 3011 | 3 | Literature | 3 |
| PHYS 2055 | 2 | Physics elective | 3 |
| THEO 1001 | 3 | Social-Behavioral Science | 3 |
| 17 | 17 | ||
| Senior | |||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
| MATH 4540 | 3 | Computer Science elective | 3 |
| PHYS 4031 | 3 | Literature | 3 |
| Philosophy (upper division) | 3 | PHYS 2049 | 3 |
| Theology (second level) | 3 | Physics elective | 2 |
| Computer Science electives | 6 | Theology (third level) | 3 |
| Diverse Cultures elective | 3 | ||
| 18 | 17 | ||
| Total credit hours: 131-133 | |||
Mathematical Physics Concentration
The mathematical physics concentration develops the mathematical aspects of physics. It consists of the common physics core (22 credit hours in physics), background course work in mathematics (16 credit hours) and chemistry (8 credit hours), in addition to the courses listed below:
| Mathematics Courses: | ||
| MATH 3100 | Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory | 3 |
| MATH 4120 | Abstract Algebra 1 | 3 |
| MATH 4210 | Complex Variables | 3 |
| Two physics elective courses: | ||
| PHYS 4012 | Quantum Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 4062 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 15 | |
Note:
- Students pursuing the computational physics or mathematical physics concentrations may request from the physics department a waiver of the CHEM 1001, 1002 requirements, to substitute additional COSC or MATH courses.
Courses
PHYS 1001. General Physics 1. 4 cr. hrs.
Newton's laws, linear motion, circular and harmonic motion, fluids, heat, kinetic theory, wave motion and sound. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. quiz. Prereq: High school algebra, geometry, and trigonometry or equivalent.
PHYS 1002. General Physics 2. 4 cr. hrs.
Continuation of PHYS 1001. Electrostatics, DC circuits, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, light, optical instruments, interference and diffraction of light, modern physics. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. quiz. Prereq: PHYS 1001.
PHYS 1003. General Physics with Introductory Calculus 1. 4 cr. hrs.
Survey of classical physics for science and engineering majors. Kinematics in one and two dimensions. Newton's laws of motion and dynamics, including rotation of rigid bodies. Energy concepts in physical systems. Newton's law of universal gravitation. The first law of thermodynamics, harmonic motion, and Einstein's special relativity. A command of high school algebra, geometry and trigonometry is assumed. Requires the use of introductory calculus. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. dis. Prereq: MATH 1450 can be taken concurrently.
PHYS 1004. General Physics with Introductory Calculus 2. 4 cr. hrs.
A continuation of PHYS 1003. A survey of classical electromagnetic theory, with an introduction to modern physics. Electricity and magnetism: Coulomb's law, Gauss' law, the electric field and the electric potential, DC circuits, Ampere's law, Faraday's law, electromagnetic waves. Classical and quantum waves, interference, thermodynamics and an introduction to statistical mechanics. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. dis. Prereq: MATH 1450 and PHYS 1003 or PHYS 1013. MATH 1451 or MATH 1455, can be taken concurrently.
PHYS 1005. Perspectives in Physical Sciences. 3 cr. hrs.
Basic concepts in the physical sciences and their impact on technology, the humanities and the world. Course designed for non-science majors. This course satisfies the Arts and Sciences College Curriculum Natural Science requirement.
PHYS 1007. Survey of Meteorology. 3 cr. hrs.
An introduction to the science of the atmosphere as it relates to the weather of the earth. Topics will include the gas laws, heat transfer, causes of the seasons, atmospheric optics, humidity, clouds, atmospheric stability, causes of precipitation, atmospheric motions, air masses, fronts and pressure systems, thunderstorms, tornados, and hurricanes. Emphasis will be put on how weather is forecast and how it relates to everyone's life. This course satisfies the Arts and Sciences College Curriculum Natural Science requirement.
PHYS 1008. Astronomy and Space Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Physics of the solar system, stars, galaxies and the universe. Experimental methods of observational astronomy, telescopes, and space probes. Special topics such as black holes, neutron stars, and quasars. 3 hrs. lec. or 3 hrs. lec. 1 hr. rec. This course satisfies the Arts and Sciences College Curriculum Natural Science requirement.
PHYS 1009. Earth and Environmental Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Impact of human activities on the terrestrial environment. Population distribution and growth. Energy balance of the earth. Energy, land and water use, the water cycle. Effects of chemical and physical pollutants on water and the atmosphere. Course designed for non-science majors. 3 hrs. lec. or 3 hrs. lec., 1 hr. rec. This course satisfies the Arts and Sciences College Curriculum Natural Science requirement.
PHYS 1013. Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 1. 4 cr. hrs.
A study of motion in its various forms, translational, rotational, and vibrational, that emphasizes their underlying unity, especially the central role of energy and its conservation, and their basis in the fundamental Newtonian laws of motion and Einstein's special relativity. These ideas are used to explain thermal processes. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. quiz. Prereq: MATH 1450, which may be taken concurrently. A command of high school algebra, geometry, trigonometry is assumed. Requires the use of introductory calculus. Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 1003 and PHYS 1013.
PHYS 1014. Classical and Modern Physics with Calculus 2. 4 cr. hrs.
This course, continuing the development of energy as a fundamental concept, includes a study of electric and magnetic phenomena, and their unification in the theory of electromagnetism. Applications are made to waves, geometric and physical optics, atomic spectra, and nuclear decay and introductory quantum mechanics invluding wave function and bound systems. 3 hrs. lec., 2 hrs. lab., 1 hr. quiz. Prereq: MATH 1450, MATH 1451 or MATH 1455 which may be taken concurrently, and PHYS 1003 or PHYS 1013. Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 1004 and PHYS 1014.
PHYS 1018. Introduction to Research. 0 cr. hrs.
An overview of research activity, specialties, and opportunities for undergraduate research is provided through an in-depth visit each week to a different research laboratory at Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin. All science students interested in learning about research are encouraged to take this course. SNC/UNC grade assessment.
PHYS 1020. Physics Laboratory Only. 1 cr. hr.
Prereq: Cons. of dept. ch.
PHYS 1030. Physics Lecture Only. 1-6 cr. hr.
Prereq: Cons. of dept. ch.
PHYS 2004. Modern Physics: Atoms, Particles, and Quanta. 3 cr. hrs.
A survey of 20th century physics concentrating on atoms and particles. Quantum mechanics: origins, the Schrodinger equation, the hydrogen atom, many-electron atoms and angular momentum. Introduction to special relativity. Nuclear structure, radioactivity, nuclear reactions, fission and fusion. Elementary particles, conservation laws, reactions, the Standard Model, and cosmology. Prereq: MATH 2450 and PHYS 1002; MATH 2450 and PHYS 1004; or MATH 2450 and PHYS 1014. Prerequisites may be taken concurrently.
PHYS 2005. Modern Physics: The States of Matter. 3 cr. hrs.
A survey of the physics of matter and materials. Atoms and the forces between them, molecules, the states of matter, kinetic theory, perfect and imperfect gases. Statistical physics: classical statistics and the Boltzmann factor, quantum statistics. The solid state: cohesion and structure, electrical, magnetic, thermal and elastic properties. The liquid state: cohesion and structure, latent heat and melting, flow in ideal and real liquids. Prereq: MATH 2450 and PHYS 1002; MATH 2450 and PHYS 1004; or MATH 2450 and PHYS 1014. Prerequisites may be taken concurrently.
PHYS 2048. Mathematical Methods for Physicists. 3 cr. hrs.
This course presents mathematical methods applied to physical problems including Fourier Analysis, special functions, eigenvalue problems, the calculus of variations, probability and statistics. Prereq: MATH 2451 and PHYS 1004 or MATH 2451 and PHYS 1014.
PHYS 2049. Computational Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Computational techniques applied to problems in the physical sciences. Construction of models of physical systems. Generation and analysis of data. The role of models in developing physical theories. Course assignments will use a variety of programming environments and commercial software. Prereq: PHYS 2048.
PHYS 2055. Electronics Lab. 2 cr. hrs.
Introduction to electronic measuring equipment and circuits. Voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, oscilloscopes, DC and AC circuits, resistance, impedance, passive and active filters, power supplies, op-amps, amplifiers, and analog-digital conversion. An introduction to error analysis and precision of measurement. 1 hr. lec., 3 hrs. lab. Prereq: PHYS 1004 or PHYS 1014.
PHYS 3011. Classical Mechanics. 3 cr. hrs.
Three-dimensional motion of a particle in both Cartesian and spherical coordinate systems. Newtonian dynamics, the classical harmonic oscillator, central forces. Lagrange and Hamilton's formulations of analytical mechanics, angular momentum, Kepler's problem, and the dynamics of a rigid body. Coupled oscillators. Prereq: MATH 2451 and PHYS 1002; MATH 2451 and PHYS 1004; or MATH 2451 and PHYS 1014. Prerequisites may be taken concurrently.
PHYS 3021. Introduction to Theoretical Astrophysics. 3 cr. hrs.
Introduction to astrophysical problems, with emphasis on underlying physical principles; includes the nature of stars, equations of state, stellar energy generations, stellar structure and evolution, astrophysical neutrinos, binary stars, white dwarfs, neutron stars and pulsars and novae and supernovae. This course does not count towards the physics major. Prereq: PHYS 1013 and PHYS 1014 or PHYS 1003 and PHYS 1004 or PHYS 1001 and PHYS 1002 and cons. of instr.
PHYS 3022. Introduction to Observational Astronomy. 3 cr. hrs.
Nature of the Milky Way galaxy from an observer's perspective: stellar statistics and distributions, stellar populations, spiral structure, the nucleus and halo. Nature of ordinary galaxies, galaxies in our Local Group, structure of voids and superclusters. Nature of peculiar objects: Seyfert galaxies, starburst galaxies, and quasars. Elementary aspects of physical cosmology. Introduction to techniques used in modern optical and radio astronomy with emphasis on the physical and mathematical understanding of the detection of electromagnetic radiation. Prereq: PHYS 1013 and PHYS 1014 or PHYS 1003 and PHYS 1004 or (PHYS 1001 and PHYS 1002 and cons. of instr.) and PHYS 2004 and PHYS 3021.
PHYS 3056. Contemporary Physics Lab 1. 2 cr. hrs.
Experiments in molecular, nuclear, atomic, solid state physics, and in geometrical and physical optics. Application of error analysis, precision of measurement, and propagation of errors. 1 hr. lec., 3 hrs. lab. Prereq: PHYS 2055.
PHYS 3953. Biophysics Seminar. 1 cr. hr.
The frontiers of research in biophysics, and the techniques employed, are explored through attending the weekly Biophysics Seminar at the Medical College of Wisconsin and participating in a follow-on discussion after each seminar. Prereq: Jr. stndg. May be taken more than once for credit. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor's degree in physics.
PHYS 3995. Undergraduate Research. 1-3 cr. hr.
Experimental or theoretical research in an area of contemporary physics under the guidance of a physics faculty member who has expertise in that area. Successful completion of the course includes a summary paper and an oral presentation to the regular physics faculty. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor of science in physics. Prereq: Jr. stndg. and cons. of dept. ch.; cons. of a regular physics faculty member.
PHYS 4012. Quantum Mechanics. 3 cr. hrs.
Quantum states, state vectors, observables and operators. The formal structure of quantum mechanics. Time evolution of the state vector. The Hamiltonian. Position and momentum representations, and the wave function. One-dimensional wave mechanics and the harmonic oscillator. Three-dimensional wave mechanics. Symmetry, angular momentum, and the hydrogen atom. Fermions, and bosons. Perturbation methods. Prereq: MATH 2451 and PHYS 2004 or MATH 2451 and PHYS 1014.
PHYS 4024. Modern Optics. 3 cr. hrs.
Geometric optics, classical wave theory of optics, interference, diffraction, polarization, electromagnetic theory of light, interaction of light and matter, lasers and coherence. Prereq: MATH 1451 and PHYS 1002; or MATH 1451 and PHYS 1004; or MATH 1451 and PHYS 1014.
PHYS 4031. Electricity and Magnetism 1. 3 cr. hrs.
Electrostatics: Coulomb's law and Gauss' law. The electric field in dielectric materials. Microscopic theory of Ohm's law and steady state currents. The magnetic field, Biot-Savart law, Ampere's law, the vector potential. Magnetic materials. Electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law. Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves. Prereq: MATH 2450 and PHYS 1002; or MATH 2450 and PHYS 1004; or MATH 2450 and PHYS 1014.
PHYS 4032. Electricity and Magnetism 2. 3 cr. hrs.
Boundary value problems: The solution of electrostatic and magnetostatic problems in continuous media. Microscopic theories of the dielectric and magnetic properties of materials. Electromagnetic waves in bounded regions. Reflection, refraction and dispersion. Radiation from accelerated charges. Antennae. Electrodynamics and the theory of special relativity. Prereq: PHYS 4031.
PHYS 4046. The Physical Basis of Biological Structure and Function. 3 cr. hrs.
The molecular processes of life occur in a complex aqueous molecular environment. Biological molecules and their environments are governed by the universal laws of nature which are the backbone of the principles of physics. Applies introductory physics and chemistry to present the physical basis of biological structure (size limitations, molecular orientation and signaling and cell-cell communication) and the physical basis of biological function (exocytosis/endocytosis, fusion/fission, active/passive transport). Describes the basic experimental techniques used to infer the dynamics of molecular life processes. Prereq: PHYS 1002, 1004 or 1014 and CHEM 1002.
PHYS 4057. Contemporary Physics Lab 2. 2 cr. hrs.
Continuation of the experiments in PHYS 3056. Measurement and propagation of uncertainty, curve fitting, automated data collection and experiment control. 1 hr. lec., 3 hrs. lab. Prereq: PHYS 3056.
PHYS 4062. Introduction to Thermodynamics. 3 cr. hrs.
Fundamental concepts of thermodynamics: temperature, internal energy, entropy and thermodynamic potentials. Laws of thermodynamics, their consequences and applications. Introduction to statistical thermodynamics. Prereq: MATH 2450 and PHYS 2005.
PHYS 4065. Experimental Methods in Molecular Biophysics. 3 cr. hrs.
An introduction to the field of biological physics which develops the science and illustrates the applications of the techniques of X-ray diffraction and spin channels and transport through cell membranes. Prereq: PHYS 2004 and PHYS 4031, or PHYS 4046.
PHYS 4071. Atomic Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Quantum mechanics of one and many electron atoms. Spin, orbital, and total angular momentum. Atoms in electric and magnetic fields, the Stark effect and the Zeeman effect. Atomic transitions, symmetry and selection rules. The periodic table and shell structure. Modern spectroscopy. Prereq: PHYS 4012 and PHYS 4031.
PHYS 4072. Introduction to Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Experimental methods in nuclear and particle physics. Theories of nuclear structure, radioactivity, decay schemes, fission and fusion models, conservation laws. Elementary particle classifications and the Standard Model. Prereq: PHYS 4012.
PHYS 4075. Introduction to Solid State Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Crystal structure of solids, the reciprocal lattice and diffraction. Lattice vibrations and thermal properties. Electrons in metals, band structure and semiconductors. The Fermi surface. Dielectric and magnetic properties of solids. Superconductivity. Prereq: PHYS 2005 and PHYS 4012.
PHYS 4931. Topics in Contemporary Physics. 3 cr. hrs.
Topics drawn from areas of current interest such as astrophysics, atmospheric physics, condensed matter physics or particle physics. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor of science in physics. Prereq: Cons. of dept. ch.
PHYS 4953. Seminar in Physics. 1 cr. hr.
Critical analysis of the original works of scientists who have made significant contributions to Physics. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor of science in physics. Prereq: Cons. of dept. ch.
PHYS 4995. Independent Study in Physics. 1-3 cr. hr.
Independent study of special topics in physics under faculty supervision. Topics selected by students. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor of science in physics. Prereq: Cons. of dept. ch.
PHYS 4999. Senior Thesis. 2 cr. hrs.
Independent research under the guidance of physics faculty. The topic may be chosen from any area of physics. Successful completion of the course includes a written thesis on the research and an oral presentation. This course may not be used to satisfy the 30 cr. hr. minimum requirements for a bachelor of science in physics. Prereq: Sr. stndg. and cons. of dept. ch.; cons. of a regular physics faculty member.
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