PHYS - 010. Topics in the Physical Sciences

3 credit(s)
A course of lectures and demonstrations on the principles and laws governing the physical world. It may be offered with emphasis on a specific topic, and content will be indicated by subtitle. This course is intended to fulfill part of the School of Science Core requirement for School of Liberal Arts and School of Business majors and is not open to Physics majors. It may be taken more than once with different content. Examples of special topics include: Structures A course about the nature of properties of structures, from the pyramids to modern skyscrapers. The course begins with a brief examination of the nature of materials. This is followed by a systematic study of a variety of different structures, including pyramids, houses, bridges, and cathedrals. Students will be expected to participate in in-class projects. Introduction to Nanoscience This course introduces students to the relatively recent and emerging field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It is a highly multidisciplinary field, where physics, chemistry, biology, materials science meet at the nanometer scale. The course begins from a non-technical level and is designed for both science and non-science majors. It covers topics ranging from nanomeasurement techniques, nanofabrication, nanostructured materials, self- assembling nanostructures, applications to engineering and to biotechnology. Emphasis is placed discussing the impact of nanotechnologies in a globalized world and its possible benefits (environmental safety, energy production, manufacturing, drug design, information technology) versus its potential risks (health issues, environmental pollution, societal issues, ethical issues). (ATTR: ARTS, CFN, STVN) In addition, the following topics courses are taught:: Light, Color and Lasers (ATTR: ARTS, CAN, STVN) Atmosphere and Oceans (ATTR: ARTS, CAN, STVN) Physics: An Historical Approach (ATTR: ARTS, CAN, STVN) Physics of Music ( ATTR: ARTS, CFN, STVN)