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Physics 100B - Spring 2009

 


Textbook

Physics by James S. Walker, Third Edition, ISBN 0-13-173463-6 Pearson - Prentice Halll, 2007). Also available: Student Study Guide with Selected Solutions, ISBN:0-13-236963-X (Pearson - Prentice Hall, 2007).

Course Description

This course is an algebra based introductory physics course covering chapters 19-32 of the text. The topics covered include Electric Charge, Electric Force, Electric Field, Energy and Electric Potential, Electric Current and DC Circuits, Magnetism, Magnetic Flux and Faraday's Law, Geometric and Wave Optics, Relativity, Quantum, Atomic and Nuclear Physics. The required mathematical level of the course is reviewed in Appendix A of the textbook. Each and every topic is not necessarily covered during class time but students are responsible for all sections indicated on the syllabus. You should study all the material carefully, especially those planning to take the MCAT exams.

Course Objectives

To gain basic knowledge, and understand the main principles, of Physics as applied to Electromagnetism, Optics and Modern Physics. The student should recognize the importance of the scientific method and develop strong problem-solving skills.

General Education

This course, together with Physics 100BL, fulfills the Subject Exploration: Natural Sciences requirements of General Education. It meets the following three GE Student Learning Objectives (SLOs):
SLO 1: Demonstrate an understanding of basic knowledge, principles, and laws in the natural sciences.
SLO 4:  Recognize the contribution and potential of science in human society and everyday life.
SLO 5: Demonstrate competence in applying the methods of scientific inquiry.

The course SLOs will be met via a combination of activities. Lectures will cover the course topics including (1) a description of the physical principles and background, (2) examples that show relevance of the material to phenomena encountered in nature and real-world situations, (3) lecture demonstrations that show practical and experimental applications and (4) guidance on problem solving techniques and their implementation. Class discussion will clarify difficult points, enhance learning, and provide a two-way feedback. Homework, in class quizzes, and exams will permit the students demonstrate their comprehension of the material and problem solving skills.

Instructors

The course schedule and requirements of each section are listed under the links below. Please follow these links to find out the specifics of your section of this course.

Class Number 14997 (TR 0800-0915) - Alan B. Solinger

Class Number 14996 (TR 0930-1045) - Paul L. Lee

Class Number 14998 (TR 1100-1215) - Yohannes Shiferaw

Class Number 15036 (TR 1230 -1345) - David R. Mitchell

Class Number 15644 (TR 1400-1515) - Yohannes Shiferaw

Helpful Tip

You should plan on spending at least 6 hours each week, outside of class, studying on your own for this course alone. The course builds on previous materials so please keep up with the course work. It is very difficult to catch-up if you do not keep up with the course schedule. This is not a course where you can cram for the material. Please reduce your outside school activities to a minimum to receive the most from your education experience at CSUN.

Homework problems will be assigned by your instructor. You are encouraged to work together in problem-solving groups, seek free tutorial assistance from the Society of Physics Students (SPS) and Supplemental Instructions (SI) when available, and use other means to help you learn the material. You are especially encouraged to seek help from your instructor as soon as you encounter problems. Any delay will only greatly complicate your ability to learn the material. You will be tested primarily on problem solving and conceptual understanding.