PHSCS 123
Introduction to Waves, Optics, and Thermodynamics
Physics and Astronomy
College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Course Description
Waves, thermal physics, optics, special relativity, and introduction to modern physics. Weekly lab.
When Taught
Fall, Winter, Spring
Grade Rule
Grade Rule 8: A, B, C, D, E, I (Standard grade rule)
Min
3
Fixed
3
Fixed
3
Fixed
1
Other Prerequisites
Phscs 121 or equivalent. Calculus
Note
Also offered by BYU Independent Study; enroll anytime throughout year; one year to complete; additional tuition required; register at is.byu.edu.
Title
Fluid States
Learning Outcome
Solve problems and answer conceptual questions using the basics of fluid statics and dynamics, including Bernoulli's principle and Pascal's law.
Title
Temperature, Pressure, Entropy, and Volume for Ideal Gases
Learning Outcome
Answer conceptual questions and calculate changes in temperature, pressure, entropy and volume for quasistatic ideal gas processes and be able to determine work done and efficiency for gas engines, heat pumps, and refrigerators. Determine heat flow and temperatures in systems in steady state.
Title
Physics of Waves
Learning Outcome
Solve problems and answer conceptual questions involving waves, using concepts such as wave speed, wavelength, frequency, superposition, beats, and resonance. Solve wave interference problems.
Title
Imaging with Optics and Optical Systems
Learning Outcome
Find the location and magnification of images in single- and multiple-lens/mirror systems by calculation and by ray tracing, and be able to work general problems in optics using Snell's law and specular reflection.
Title
Special Relativity, Quantum Mechanics, and Nuclear Physics
Learning Outcome
(Section 1) Solve problems and answer conceptual questions in basic modern physics including special relativity, and quantum mechanics and nuclear physics.
Title
Waves, Fourier Anaylsis, Musical Acoustic,Special Relativity
Learning Outcome
(Section 2) Solve more advanced problems and answer conceptual questions in wave analysis, including calculating group and phases velocities, solving for Fourier coefficients of periodic functions, and frequencies of notes in the equal temperament musical scale. Solve problems in special relativity.
