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2008 - 2009 Catalog
Physics
Science 166
541-552-6475
The physics program is part of the Department of Chemistry, Physics, Materials, and Engineering. The physics major prepares students for careers in physics, including astronomy; astrophysics; cosmology; electronics; elementary particles and high-energy physics; environmental and atmospheric physics; forensics; health; high school teaching; materials science and nanotechnology; medical and nuclear physics; and theoretical, computational, and mathematical physics. A BS or BA in physics is also excellent preparation for a career in law, medicine, or engineering (see the Applied Physics Option and the Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option sections). Through hands-on training, students acquire valuable technical and research skills. Our graduates have strong placement records at industries in the state of Oregon and at graduate and professional schools nationwide.
Degrees
BA or BS in Physics in the Standard Physics Option
BS in Physics in the Applied Physics Option, the Materials Science Option, the Engineering Physics Option, and the Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option
Co-Major
Business-Physics
Minor
Physics
Engineering
The Department of Physics offers a preprofessional engineering program equivalent to the program at Oregon State University. Students completing this program typically apply for admission to the professional engineering program (junior standing) at Oregon State University in agricultural, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical, or nuclear engineering. Refer to the Engineering section for more details.
Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program
Physics majors may participate in the Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program, which enables students to complete the physics degree requirements in three years. For more information, please see the Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree Program section or visit the website at www.sou.edu/admissions/3yb.shtml.
Degree Programs
Five degree options are available for physics majors:
- The Standard Option. Emphasizes the coursework expected of students planning graduate studies in physics or a closely related field. SOU offers a complete upper division physics curriculum.
- The Applied Option. Prepares students for industrial employment or graduate work in applied physics, including nanotechnology, biophysics, medical physics, environmental physics, and geophysics.
- The Materials Science Option. Emphasizes the materials aspects of physical science, including composities, nanoparticles, and polymers. This option is offered in cooperation with the University of Oregon (UO) Materials Science Institute.
- The Engineering Physics Option. Prepares students for graduate school or careers at technical companies. Coursework is designed with flexibility that allows students to focus on their engineering emphasis of choice (e.g., biomedical, chemical, electrical/computer, environmental engineering).
- The Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option. Allows a student to earn a BS in physics from Southern Oregon University and a BS in engineering from Oregon State University. At SOU, students can complete all of the engineering requirements for admission to the chosen department of the OSU professional engineering program and most of the requirements for the SOU applied physics option. At OSU, students in this program complete SOU’s physics degree requirements, along with OSU’s professional engineering requirements. Students are eligible to receive a degree from SOU upon completion of the University’s requirements and a minimum of 24 credits of upper division engineering at OSU. This program provides many career options for students interested in physics and engineering.
Teacher Licensing
Students who would like to teach physics at the middle school or high school level in Oregon public schools must complete a bachelor’s degree in physics before applying for admission to SOU’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. Interested students should consult the Physics Department chair.
Requirements for the Major
Candidates for a bachelor’s degree in physics must:
- Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated beginning on page 19.
- Complete the core requirements for the physics major.
- Complete the requirements for one of the following options: the Standard Option, the Applied Physics Option, the Materials Science Option, the Engineering Physics Option, or the Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option.
- Complete all of the upper division coursework for the major with a GPA of 2.5 or greater.
- Complete the applicable capstone requirements.
Core Requirements
(55 credits)
The following courses are required of all physics options:
| General Chemistry (CH 201, 202, 203) | 9 |
| General Chemistry Lab (CH 204, 205, 206) | 6 |
| Calculus I (MTH 251) | 4 |
| Calculus II (MTH 252) | 4 |
| General Physics (PH 221, 222, 223) or General Physics (PH 201, 202, 203) and Problem Solving in the Sciences (PH 220) | 12 |
| General Physics Lab (PH 224, 225, 226) | 6 |
| Methods of Research in Physics (PH 331, 332) | 2 |
| Modern Physics (PH 341) and Modern Physics Lab (PH 344) | 5 |
| Mathematical Methods for the Physical Sciences (PH 371) | 4 |
| Computer Methods (PH 380), Computer Applications in Chemistry (CH 371), or Computational Methods in Engineering (ENGR 373) | 3 |
Additional Requirements
Standard Option
Complete 34 credits for the BS (or 25 credits for the BA) from the following:
PH 333, 336, 339, 354, 361, 362, 416, 417, 424, 425, 431, 432, 439, 441, 461, and 471.
Applied Physics Option
Complete 28 credits from the following:
| ENGR 201, 211, 212 | 6–9 |
| ENGR 311, 322, 323, 333, 336, 339, 373, 374, 461, 474; PH 416, 417, 424, 425, 431, 432, 441, 471 | 19–22 |
Materials Science Option
Complete all of the following requirements:
| ENGR 201, 211, 212 | 9 |
| ENGR 374, 375, 461, 474, 475; PH 434 | 19 |
| 23 credits from the following courses: CH 334, 335, 336, 337, 340, 341, 371, 411, 414, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445; ENGR 311, 322, 323, 333, 336, 339; PH 416, 424, 425, 431, 432, 471; and MTH 421 | |
Engineering Physics Option
Complete ENGR 101, 102, 103, 201, 211, 212, 311, 322, and 323.
Complete 24 credits from the following: PH 333, 336, 339, 416, 424, 425, 431, 432, 439, 441, 461, 471.
Complete 6 credits of the engineering practicum (ENGR 409) in a departmentally approved engineering capstone project.
Physics-Engineering Dual Degree Option
Complete 28 credits from the following:
| ENGR 201, 211, 212 | 6–9 |
| Upper division physics electives (choose from PH 333, 336, 339, 354, 361, 362, 416, 424, 431, 439, 441, 461 or departmentally approved upper division engineering or wood science and technology courses at OSU) | 19–22 |
Capstone Experience
The departmental capstone requirement is the culmination of the undergraduate educational experience. In the junior year, students must register for PH 331 in winter and PH 332 in spring; these courses will familiarize students with the research of three different faculty members. During the second half of the spring quarter, students submit a capstone proposal for departmental approval after consulting with an appropriate faculty member who has agreed to assume supervisory responsibility. During the senior year, students earn 3–6 credits for the capstone project through approved activities. Possible capstone experiences include an approved independent research project, practicum project, cooperative education experience, or summer internship program. Upon completion, the project should be described and analyzed through a written and oral report to the department and an approved group of peers.
Requirements for the Minor
A total of 56 credits is required for the minor in physics.
Lower Division
(41 credits)
| General Chemistry (CH 201, 202, 203) | 9 |
| General Chemistry Lab (CH 204, 205, 206) | 6 |
| Calculus I (MTH 251) | 4 |
| Calculus II (MTH 252) | 4 |
| General Physics (PH 221, 222, 223) or General Physics (PH 201, 202, 203) and Problem Solving in the Sciences (PH 220) | 12 |
| General Physics Lab (PH 224, 225, 226) | 6 |
Upper Division
(15 credits)
| Modern Physics (PH 341) | 3 |
| Modern Physics Laboratory (PH 344) | 2 |
| Mathematical Methods for the Physical Sciences (PH 371) | 4 |
| Physics electives (upper division) | 6 |
Physics Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower Division Courses
| PH 100 Fundamentals of Physics |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces physics, with an emphasis on the relationship of physics to everyday experience. Uses physics principles to examine common questions about the universe. Concurrent enrollment in PH 104 recommended. Three 1-hour lectures. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 104 Fundamentals of Physics Laboratory |
| 1 credit |
| Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 100. One 2-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 112 Astronomy: The Solar System |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces astronomy, with an emphasis on the solar system. Topics include the origin and history of the solar system; the sun, planets, and moons; comets, meteoroids, and asteroids; a discussion of life in the universe; and the instruments and techniques used in the study of astronomy. Approved for University Studies (Explorations) if taken with PH 114. |
| PH 113 Astronomy: The Stars |
| 3 credits |
| Introductory stellar astronomy. Explores historical and contemporary ideas about the origin and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe; cosmology; and the techniques and instruments of deep space astronomy. Approved for University Studies (Explorations) if taken with PH 115. |
| PH 114 Astronomy Workshop: The Solar System |
| 1 credit |
| Practical exercises to accompany PH 112. Corequisite: PH 112. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 115 Astronomy Workshop: The Stars |
| 1 credit |
| Practical exercises to accompany PH 113. Corequisite: PH 113. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 174 Digital Systems and Robotics |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces the basics of digital electronics and the fundamentals of robotics. Topics include simple logic, truth tables, logic gates, voltage, currents, power, TTL chips, sensors, servos, and some practical applications. Cross-listed with ENGR 174. |
| PH 175 The Science and Technology of Nanoparticles |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces nanoparticles and nanoparticle technology. Focuses on the basic concepts, tools, and applications of nanoparticles to fields such as medicine, energy, electronics, and mechanics. Provides a historical perspective and an understanding of the relationship between nanoparticles and materials science. Cross-listed with ENGR 175. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 176 The Science and Technology of Materials |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces basic concepts of materials science and the microstructure-property relationships in various classes of materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and semiconductors. Topics include fundamental characterization techniques and application to science and technology. Cross-listed with ENGR 176. |
| PH 190 Calculus for Physics |
| 2 credits |
| For students who wish to begin PH 221 before completing MTH 252 or who need to review calculus while taking PH 221. Uses an intuitive approach to the calculus of derivatives and integrals. States and uses elementary theorems without proofs. Meets four hours a week for the first five weeks of the term. Offered P/NP only. Prerequisites: MTH 251 and previous or concurrent enrollment in MTH 252. Corequisite: PH 221. |
| PH 199 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 201 General Physics I |
| 3 credits |
| Algebra-based introduction to general physics for science majors. Emphasizes the application of the major concepts of classical and modern physics and the mathematical techniques of problem solving. Topics covered include statics, equations of linear and rotational motion, Newton’s laws, work and energy for linear and rotational motion, and the law of universal gravitation. Concurrent enrollment in PH 224 is recommended and is required for University Studies credit. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in MTH 112. |
| PH 202 General Physics II |
| 3 credits |
| Topics covered include simple harmonic motion, fluids, heat, ideal gas law, kinetic theory of gases, thermodynamics, sound, waves, and electric force and potential. Concurrent enrollment in PH 225 is recommended and is required for University Studies credit. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite: PH 201. |
| PH 203 General Physics III |
| 3 credits |
| Studies electrical energy and field, circuits, magnetic force and field, electromagnetic induction and waves, light, optics, and interference. Concurrent enrollment in PH 226 recommended. Prerequisite: PH 202. |
| PH 209 Practicum |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 220 Problem Solving in the Sciences |
| 3 credits |
| Calculus applications to selected topics in physics. Required for students from the PH 201 sequence who plan on pursuing the physics major or minor. Prerequisite: MTH 112. |
| PH 221 General Physics I |
| 4 credits |
| Studies the principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Calculus-based topics include statics, equations of linear and rotational motion, Newton’s laws, work and energy for linear and rotational motion, and the law of universal gravitation. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite: MTH 251 or MTH 252 with concurrent enrollment in PH 190. Corequisite: PH 224. |
| PH 222 General Physics II |
| 4 credits |
| Covers the physics principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Topics include mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite: PH 221. Corequisite: PH 225. |
| PH 223 General Physics III |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the physics principles necessary for further study in the physical sciences, engineering, and modern biology. Topics include mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Three lectures and one recitation. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). Prerequisite: PH 222. Corequisite: PH 226. |
| PH 224 General Physics Laboratory I |
| 2 credits |
| Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 201 or 221. One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 225 General Physics Laboratory II |
| 2 credits |
| Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 202 or 222. One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| PH 226 General Physics Laboratory III |
| 2 credits |
| Laboratory activities designed to complement PH 203 or 223. One 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
Upper Division Courses
| PH 308 Energy and the Environment |
| 3 credits |
| Offers a systematic study of current energy-related issues, with an emphasis on the environmental impact of energy production and use. Discussions focus on resource limitations, social values, economics, and the politics accompanying energy issues. Offers an introductory-level review of the physics of energy and analysis methods. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 309 Energy Alternatives |
| 3 credits |
| Explores the soft energy paths that have emerged from the general awareness of resource limitations. Topics include alternative energy options available to a modern society at both global and local levels and the many facets of solar energy technology, wind, biomass, hydrogen, and energy efficiency. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisites: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 310 Energy Policy |
| 3 credits |
| Explores major energy issues and the processes and players involved in developing and implementing energy policy. Discussion includes technological and social aspects of associated economic, environmental, and equity tradeoffs. Issues such as global change, electricity industry restructuring, and the hydrogen economy are investigated, as well as energy markets and energy systems planning. Case studies are used to focus the discussions on real situations. Approved for University Studies (Integration). |
| PH 312 Space, Time, and the Cosmos |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces the basic concepts of modern physics for non-science majors. Major topics include the theories of relativity, quantum mechanics, particle physics, and cosmology. Covers black holes, curved space, and models of the universe. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisites: Upper division standing and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 313 Acoustics, Sound, and Music |
| 3 credits |
| Surveys the production of sound in nature and by musical instruments. Emphasizes the scientific analysis of sound characteristics and sound production, from ancient instruments to synthesizers and computers. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisites: Upper division standing and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 314 Light, Vision, and Optical Phenomena |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces the basic laws of light, optical instruments, natural and optical phenomena, and vision. Covers the production, transmission, and detection of light; photography; and the processing of optical/visual information. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisites: Upper division standing and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 315 Cosmology |
| 3 credits |
| Discusses cosmological models through the ages and cultures. Covers forces and fields in the universe, as well as prevailing theories of cosmology, assumptions, supporting observational evidence, predictions for the future of the universe, and their ancient parallels. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisites: Upper division standing and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| PH 331 Methods of Research in Physics I |
| 1 credit |
| Introduces ongoing experimental and theoretical research in the department. Juniors should register for this course during winter term. P/NP only. Prerequisite: PH 344. |
| PH 332 Methods of Research in Physics II |
| 1 credit |
| Preparation of capstone proposal with a selected mentor. Juniors should register for this course during spring term. P/NP only. Prerequisite: PH 331. |
| PH 333 Optics and Waves |
| 3 credits |
| Offers an introduction to optics for science majors. Topics include imaging systems, wave theory, aberrations, diffraction, and interference. Prerequisites: MTH 252; PH 203 or 223. (Cross-listed with ENGR 333.) |
| PH 336 Optics Laboratory |
| 1 credit |
| Laboratory course in optics designed to complement PH 333. Provides practical experience with lasers, optical devices, imaging systems, and fiber optics. One 3-hour laboratory. Prerequisite or corequisite: PH 333. (Cross-listed with ENGR 336.) |
| PH 339 Lasers |
| 3 credits |
| Designed for physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering majors. Covers the fundamental types of lasers, as well as the operational characteristics and applications of lasers in physics, chemistry, communications, engineering, industry, and medicine. Two lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: PH 203 or 223. |
| PH 341 Modern Physics |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces special relativity, quantum theory, the electronic structure of atoms, and selected topics, including band theory of solids, nuclear structure, accelerators and elementary particles, and cosmology. Prerequisites: MTH 252; PH 203 or 223. |
| PH 344 Modern Physics Laboratory |
| 2 credits |
| Includes experiments in modern physics. Emphasizes measurements that give values for the fundamental constants of nature, such as the electronic charge or Planck’s constant, along with computer-based data analysis. Six hours of open laboratory. Prerequisites: PH 226 and previous or concurrent enrollment in PH 341. |
| PH 354 Thermal Physics |
| 4 credits |
| Offers a statistical approach to thermodynamics. Employs the fundamental ideas of probability for small systems of particles to derive concepts such as entropy, internal energy, and chemical potential. Covers applications to a wide variety of classical and quantum systems. Prerequisites: MTH 252; PH 203 or 223. |
| PH 361 Digital Electronics |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces digital circuits, with emphasis on applications in scientific instrumentation. Topics include logic functions, gates, latches, flip-flops, combinational and sequential logic, and interfacing analog and digital circuits. Three lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisite: MTH 111. |
| PH 362 Analog Electronics |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces the design and troubleshooting of AC and DC analog circuits. Topics include filters, rectifiers, power supplies, and amplifiers. Three lectures and one 3-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: MTH 252. |
| PH 371 Mathematical Methods for the Physical Sciences |
| 4 credits |
| Previews basic applied mathematical methods for intermediate students in the physical sciences. Covers infinite series, complex functions, partial differentiation, multiple integration, and vector analysis. Prerequisite: MTH 252. |
| PH 380 Computer Methods |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces the use of computers for problem solving in science and engineering. Applies programming techniques to integration, differentiation, and modeling. Prerequisites: MTH 252; PH 201 or 221. |
| PH 399 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 401/501 Research |
| Credits to be arranged |
| Prerequisite: PH 331. |
| PH 403/503 Thesis |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 405/505 Reading and Conference |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 407/507 Seminar |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 408/508 Workshop |
| Credits to be arranged |
| PH 409/509 Practicum |
| Credits to be arranged (maximum 15 undergraduate credits) |
| PH 411/511 Physics Laboratory and Instruction Practices |
| 1 to 3 credits |
| Involves preparation for instruction of general physics laboratory courses. Students intern with a faculty mentor to prepare lower division lab classes or lecture demonstration materials. Students obtain direct, hands-on experience with preparation for K–12 or graduate school teaching assignments. Prerequisite: Senior standing. |
| PH 416/516 Quantum Physics I |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces the basic principles of quantum mechanics, including wave-particle duality, the Schrodinger equation for elementary potentials, the interpretation of the wave function, uncertainty relations, and operators. Prerequisites: PH 341 and 371. |
| PH 417/517 Quantum Physics II |
| 3 credits |
| Examines principles of quantum mechanics, including the three-dimensional Schrodinger equation, the hydrogen atom, angular momentum, spin and spin systems, perturbation theory, and radiation. Prerequisite: PH 416. |
| PH 424/524 Analytical Mechanics I |
| 4 credits |
| Studies the basic laws of motion in the Newtonian formalism. Topics include dynamics of particles, rigid bodies, conservation laws, and oscillations. Prerequisites: PH 223 and 371. |
| PH 425/525 Analytical Mechanics II |
| 4 credits |
| Covers generalized coordinates, variational principles, and the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms. Prerequisite: PH 424. |
| PH 431/531 Electricity and Magnetism |
| 4 credits |
| Studies static electricity and magnetism. Topics include Coulomb’s law, electric field, Gauss’ law, the scalar potential, electrostatic energy, and interactions with matter. Prerequisites: PH 223 and 371. |
| PH 432/532 Electricity and Magnetism |
| 4 credits |
| Examines electric and magnetic fields and their interactions with matter. Introduces Ampere’s law, magnetic induction, Faraday’s law, the vector potential, magnetic energy, Maxwell’s equations, and electromagnetic waves. Prerequisite: PH 431. |
| PH 434 Advanced Physics Laboratory (Various Topics) |
| 1 to 2 credits |
| Selected experiments in physics and materials characterization techniques. Students may enroll for a total of 3 credits under this course number. Prerequisite: PH 226 or ENGR 226. |
| PH 441/541 Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics |
| 3 credits |
| Explores the theory and experimental techniques of nuclear reactions and elementary particle physics. Prerequisite: PH 341. |
| PH 451/551 Topics in Atmospheric Physics |
| 3 credits |
| Involves studies of the sun-driven processes that occur in space near the Earth. Topics include thermodynamic and transport processes, measurement methods, computational modeling, and applications to environmental studies. Prerequisite: PH 223. |
| PH 461/561 Solid State Physics |
| 4 credits |
| Explores crystal structure and binding; reciprocal lattice; and mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, magnetic, and transport properties of solids. Prerequisite: PH 371. |
| PH 471/571 Advanced Topics in Mathematical Physics |
| 3 credits |
| Examines tensor analysis, Fourier analysis, analytic function theory, partial differential equations, and integral equations. Strongly recommended for students in physics and engineering who are planning graduate studies. Prerequisite: PH 371. |
| PH 475 Nanoparticles and Nanoparticle Technology |
| 3 credits |
| Introduces nanoparticles and nanoparticle technology to science majors. Provides a brief historical context. Explores nanoscale particle properties (mechanical properties and phase stability), nanoparticle design and fabrication, nanoparticle characterization, and nanoparticle applications. Emphasizes the relationship between the internal structure of a nanoparticle and its properties. Prerequisite: PH 223. |
| PH 499 Capstone Project |
| 1 to 2 credits a term (maximum 6 credits) |
| Involves research inside or outside the department under supervision of a physics faculty member. Project proposals are submitted and reviewed in PH 331 and 332 during the spring term of the student’s junior year. Requires prior departmental approval, a written progress report each term, and a seminar or symposium presentation at the completion of the project. Prerequisites: PH 331, 332, and senior standing. |
Equivalencies for Physics and Engineering Courses
The following courses are cross-listed in physics and engineering:
| ENGR 221–3 = PH 221-3 | |
| ENGR 224–6 = PH 224-6 | |
| ENGR 311 = PH 354 | |
| ENGR 322 = PH 362 | |
| ENGR 323 = PH 361 | |
| ENGR 333 = PH 333 | |
| ENGR 336 = PH 336 | |
| ENGR 371 = PH 371 | |
| ENGR 373 = PH 380 | |
| ENGR 461 = PH 461 | |
| ENGR 475 = PH 475 | |
