Course Descriptions: Undergraduate Program, Dept. of Physics, Princeton University


Introduction Admissions Physics Courses Research Opportunities Facilities Student-Run Activities Student Life Course Descriptions
Junior Matters Senior Matters

O F F I C E O F T H E R E G I S T R A R	S T U D E N T C O U R S E G U I D E

101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 Graduate Courses:

109 111f 111s 203 205 208 209 210 501 502

301 304 305 312 403 405 406 408 505 506

PHY 102   Spring '01 Introductory Physics

The goal of the course is to present an introduction to the fundamental laws of nature, especially optics, electricity/magnetism, gravity and atomic theory. These are treated quantitatively with an emphasis on problem solving. The laboratory is intended to give students an opportunity to observe physical phenomena and to gain "hands-on" experience with apparatus and instruments.

PHY 104   Spring '01 General Physics

To understand the basic laws of physics, in particular, electricity, magnetism and optics. Primarily geared to engineers and science majors.

PHY 106   Spring '01 Advanced Physics (Electromagnetism)

We shall study electricity and magnetism, with special emphasis on the unification of these forces through the theory of special relativity. Subject matter is similar to that of Physics104, but the treatment is more sophisticated. There will be application to physical optics and electromagnetic behavior of materials.

PHY 108   Spring '01 General Physics

Electromagnetism and optics at the level of "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick and Walker. This is the second term of a 3-term alternative to the faster-paced PHY 103-4.

PHY 111   Spring '01 Contemporary Physics

How big is the Universe? How old is the Universe? What is it composed of? How has it evolved into its present form? What is its future? These questions have captivated the human imagination since before recorded history. Perhaps the most profound feature of the Universe which has been learned over the centuries is that it is governed by the same principles of physics that determine the behavior of ordinary objects in our local surroundings. The course introduces the basic principles of contemporary physics at a conceptual level and show how they relate to our current view of the cosmos.

PHY 208   Spring '01 Principles of Quantum Mechanics

This is the Physics Department's introductory quantum mechanics course. Its intent is to present the subject in a fashion that will allow both mastery of its conceptual basis and techniques and appreciation of the excitement inherent in looking at the world in a profoundly new way. Topics to be covered include: state functions and the probability interpretation, the Schroedinger equation, uncertainty principle, the eigenvalue problem, angular momentum, perturbation theory, and the hydrogen atom.

PHY 210   Spring '01 Experimental Physics Seminar

This seminar introduces students to the basic techniques and instrumentation used in experimental physics and then helps them do experiments of their own design. The laboratory looks more like a research lab than a teaching lab. Areas are provided for students to explore vacuum, cryogenic, optical, electronic, and data acquisition techniques. While learning lab practice, students will explore an area of interest for an experimental project, which will occupy the last six weeks of the term.

PHY 304   Spring '01 Advanced Electromagnetism

Extensions of electromagnetic theory including some important applications of Maxwell's equations. Solutions to Laplace equation, boundary value problems. Electromagnetic waves, retarded potentials and radiation. Simple radiating systems, scattering and diffraction. Special relativity. Mathematical tools developed as required.

PHY 312   Spring '01 Experimental Physics

Students perform six experiments in modern physics. Topics include electron diffraction, beta-decay, optical pumping, the Mossbauer effect, and the Josephson effect. Lectures stress experimental methods, statistics, and the fundamental limits of measurements.

PHY 406   Spring '01 Modern Physics II -
Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics

This course introduces basic nuclear and particle physics and their overlap in the context of current research. The main focus will be on strong and weak interactions, symmetries, quarks, and neutrinos.

PHY 408   Spring '01 Modern Classical Dynamics

Simplectic structure of classical dynamics. Integrability vs. chaos. Motion on group manifolds and fluid mechanics. Solitons, shock waves, turbulence, strange attractors, and period doubling.

PHY 502   Spring '01 Electricity and Magnetism

A continuation of PHY 501. Topics include diffraction, electromagnetism and relativity, radiation of accelerated charges, and radiation damping.

PHY 506   Spring '01 Quantum Mechanics I

The physical principles and mathematical formalism of quantum theory. Scattering theory, systems in electromagnetic fields, and various applications to atomic, molecular, solid-state and elementary particle physics will be discussed.

PHY 101    Fall '00 Introductory Physics

The course is concerned with an introduction to the fundamental laws underlying physics and having general application in other areas of science. The treatment is complete and detailed, however, less mathematical preparation is assumed than for PHY 103-104. Mechanics and thermodynamics are treated quantitatively with a special emphasis on problem solving. In the spring semester PHY 102 covers electricity and magnetism, optics and relativity using the topics treated in PHY 101.

PHY 103    Fall '00 General Physics

To understand the basic physics needed for further study in science and engineering. Logical, quantitative approach to problem solving. Applying fundamental concepts to idealized, practical problems.

PHY 105    Fall '00 Advanced Physics

Physics 105 is a first-year course in mechanics (with a bit of thermodynamics mixed in), taught at a somewhat more sophisticated level than Physics 103. The approach of Physics 105 is that of an upper-division physics course, with more emphasis on derivation and the underlying formal structure of physics than one gets in 103. Though we get excellent physics majors from both 103 and 105, Physics 105 will give you a better sense of the flavor of the more advanced courses in the department.

PHY 107   Fall '00 General Physics

This course is the first term of a three-term sequence, 107-8-9, covering the same material as Physics 103-4. Students interested in this option should enroll in PHY 103. Concepts and problem solving strategies are emphasized, and cooperative learning is encouraged.

PHY 109   Fall '00 General Physics

Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory, Fluids and Modern Physics at the level of "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker. This is the third term of a 3-term alternative to PHY 103-4.

PHY 111   Fall '00 Contemporary Physics

Why does time always move forward? Can you be in two places at once? If you watch something moving near the speed of light, what do you see? This course addresses these and other questions of modern physics. You will be introduced to classical mechanics, relativity, thermodynamics and entropy, and quantum mechanics. The focus of this course is conceptual rather than mathematical, although some quantitative problem-solving will be done. Optionally, students may participate in an outreach program, teaching three-day physics lessons to local middle school students, in lieu of the final exam.

PHY 203/205   Fall '00 Advanced Physics II

Classical Mechanics with emphasis on the Lagrangian method. The underlying physics is Newtonian, but with more sophisticated mathematics introduced as needed to understand more complex phenomena. Topics include small oscillations, coupled oscillations, waves, central force motion and scattering, rigid body rotation and Lagrangian mechanics. The course is intensive but rewarding.

PHY 209   Fall '00 Computational Physics Seminar

Introductory course in application of computers to modern physics research. UNIX operating system, fortran and C language will be introduced and numerical analysis methods will be discussed. Examples include chaos in differential equations, fourier analysis of pulsars, Monte Carlo simulations in high energy experiments, symbolic programming in theoretical physics, analysis of cosmic microwave background experiments using linear algebra, parallel programming in cosmological simulations.

PHY 301   Fall '00 Thermal Physics

A unified introduction to thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, both classical and quantum. Applications include black-body radiation and phase transitions. Classes will involve discussions regarding modern applications of thermal physics.

PHY 305   Fall '00 Introduction to Quantum Theory

This course is a continuation of Physics 208. We will continue to develop the formalism of quantum mechanics and to explore its basis. We will apply our methods to phenomena from atomic, high energy, and condensed matter physics.

PHY 403   Fall '00 Mathematical Methods of Physics

Mathematical methods and terminology which are essential for modern theoretical physics. These include some of the traditional techniques of mathematical analysis, but also more modern tools such as group theory and differential geometry. Mathematical theories are not treated as ends in themselves; the goal is to show how mathematical tools are developed to solve physical problems.

PHY 405   Fall '00 Modern Physics I -
Condensed Matter Physics

An introduction to modern condensed matter physics. This course builds on quantum and statistical mechanics to study the electronic properties of solids, including band theory, metals, quantum Hall effects, semiconductors, superconductors and magnetism, as well as phase transitions in condensed systems, structure and dynamics of solids, liquids and liquid crystals.

PHY 501   Fall '00 Electricity and Magnetism

A systematic treatment of the theory of electromagnetic phenomena from an advanced standpoint. Maxwell's equations are discussed with special attention to their physical meaning. Other topics include potential theory, macroscopic media, waves in simple media and in bounded structures, radiation, scattering and the limitations of the theory.

PHY 505   Fall '00 Quantum Mechanics I

The physical principles and mathematical formalism of quantum theory, with emphasis on applications to atomic, molecular, and many-body physics; scattering phenomena; and electromagnetism (photon physics).

PRINCETONUNIVERSITY Site Administrator Last Updated: 1-31-01 HOME

© 1999-2001 Dept. of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544 tel 609-258-4400 fax 609-258-1124


101	102	103	104	105	106	107	108	Graduate Courses:
109	111f	111s	203	205	208	209	210	501 502
301	304	305	312	403	405	406	408	505 506


PHY 102 Spring '01	Introductory Physics
The goal of the course is to present an introduction to the fundamental laws of nature, especially optics, electricity/magnetism, gravity and atomic theory. These are treated quantitatively with an emphasis on problem solving. The laboratory is intended to give students an opportunity to observe physical phenomena and to gain "hands-on" experience with apparatus and instruments.



PHY 104 Spring '01	General Physics
To understand the basic laws of physics, in particular, electricity, magnetism and optics. Primarily geared to engineers and science majors.



PHY 106 Spring '01	Advanced Physics (Electromagnetism)
We shall study electricity and magnetism, with special emphasis on the unification of these forces through the theory of special relativity. Subject matter is similar to that of Physics104, but the treatment is more sophisticated. There will be application to physical optics and electromagnetic behavior of materials.



PHY 108 Spring '01	General Physics
Electromagnetism and optics at the level of "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick and Walker. This is the second term of a 3-term alternative to the faster-paced PHY 103-4.



PHY 111 Spring '01	Contemporary Physics
How big is the Universe? How old is the Universe? What is it composed of? How has it evolved into its present form? What is its future? These questions have captivated the human imagination since before recorded history. Perhaps the most profound feature of the Universe which has been learned over the centuries is that it is governed by the same principles of physics that determine the behavior of ordinary objects in our local surroundings. The course introduces the basic principles of contemporary physics at a conceptual level and show how they relate to our current view of the cosmos.


PHY 208 Spring '01	Principles of Quantum Mechanics
This is the Physics Department's introductory quantum mechanics course. Its intent is to present the subject in a fashion that will allow both mastery of its conceptual basis and techniques and appreciation of the excitement inherent in looking at the world in a profoundly new way. Topics to be covered include: state functions and the probability interpretation, the Schroedinger equation, uncertainty principle, the eigenvalue problem, angular momentum, perturbation theory, and the hydrogen atom.



PHY 210 Spring '01	Experimental Physics Seminar
This seminar introduces students to the basic techniques and instrumentation used in experimental physics and then helps them do experiments of their own design. The laboratory looks more like a research lab than a teaching lab. Areas are provided for students to explore vacuum, cryogenic, optical, electronic, and data acquisition techniques. While learning lab practice, students will explore an area of interest for an experimental project, which will occupy the last six weeks of the term.


PHY 304 Spring '01	Advanced Electromagnetism
Extensions of electromagnetic theory including some important applications of Maxwell's equations. Solutions to Laplace equation, boundary value problems. Electromagnetic waves, retarded potentials and radiation. Simple radiating systems, scattering and diffraction. Special relativity. Mathematical tools developed as required.


PHY 312 Spring '01	Experimental Physics
Students perform six experiments in modern physics. Topics include electron diffraction, beta-decay, optical pumping, the Mossbauer effect, and the Josephson effect. Lectures stress experimental methods, statistics, and the fundamental limits of measurements.


PHY 406 Spring '01	Modern Physics II - Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics
This course introduces basic nuclear and particle physics and their overlap in the context of current research. The main focus will be on strong and weak interactions, symmetries, quarks, and neutrinos.

PHY 408 Spring '01	Modern Classical Dynamics
Simplectic structure of classical dynamics. Integrability vs. chaos. Motion on group manifolds and fluid mechanics. Solitons, shock waves, turbulence, strange attractors, and period doubling.

PHY 502 Spring '01	Electricity and Magnetism
A continuation of PHY 501. Topics include diffraction, electromagnetism and relativity, radiation of accelerated charges, and radiation damping.

PHY 506 Spring '01	Quantum Mechanics I
The physical principles and mathematical formalism of quantum theory. Scattering theory, systems in electromagnetic fields, and various applications to atomic, molecular, solid-state and elementary particle physics will be discussed.

PHY 101 Fall '00	Introductory Physics
The course is concerned with an introduction to the fundamental laws underlying physics and having general application in other areas of science. The treatment is complete and detailed, however, less mathematical preparation is assumed than for PHY 103-104. Mechanics and thermodynamics are treated quantitatively with a special emphasis on problem solving. In the spring semester PHY 102 covers electricity and magnetism, optics and relativity using the topics treated in PHY 101.



PHY 103 Fall '00	General Physics
To understand the basic physics needed for further study in science and engineering. Logical, quantitative approach to problem solving. Applying fundamental concepts to idealized, practical problems.



PHY 105 Fall '00	Advanced Physics
Physics 105 is a first-year course in mechanics (with a bit of thermodynamics mixed in), taught at a somewhat more sophisticated level than Physics 103. The approach of Physics 105 is that of an upper-division physics course, with more emphasis on derivation and the underlying formal structure of physics than one gets in 103. Though we get excellent physics majors from both 103 and 105, Physics 105 will give you a better sense of the flavor of the more advanced courses in the department.



PHY 107 Fall '00	General Physics
This course is the first term of a three-term sequence, 107-8-9, covering the same material as Physics 103-4. Students interested in this option should enroll in PHY 103. Concepts and problem solving strategies are emphasized, and cooperative learning is encouraged.



PHY 109 Fall '00	General Physics
Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory, Fluids and Modern Physics at the level of "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker. This is the third term of a 3-term alternative to PHY 103-4.




PHY 111 Fall '00	Contemporary Physics
Why does time always move forward? Can you be in two places at once? If you watch something moving near the speed of light, what do you see? This course addresses these and other questions of modern physics. You will be introduced to classical mechanics, relativity, thermodynamics and entropy, and quantum mechanics. The focus of this course is conceptual rather than mathematical, although some quantitative problem-solving will be done. Optionally, students may participate in an outreach program, teaching three-day physics lessons to local middle school students, in lieu of the final exam.

PHY 203/205 Fall '00	Advanced Physics II
Classical Mechanics with emphasis on the Lagrangian method. The underlying physics is Newtonian, but with more sophisticated mathematics introduced as needed to understand more complex phenomena. Topics include small oscillations, coupled oscillations, waves, central force motion and scattering, rigid body rotation and Lagrangian mechanics. The course is intensive but rewarding.


PHY 209 Fall '00	Computational Physics Seminar
Introductory course in application of computers to modern physics research. UNIX operating system, fortran and C language will be introduced and numerical analysis methods will be discussed. Examples include chaos in differential equations, fourier analysis of pulsars, Monte Carlo simulations in high energy experiments, symbolic programming in theoretical physics, analysis of cosmic microwave background experiments using linear algebra, parallel programming in cosmological simulations.


PHY 301 Fall '00	Thermal Physics
A unified introduction to thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, both classical and quantum. Applications include black-body radiation and phase transitions. Classes will involve discussions regarding modern applications of thermal physics.


PHY 305 Fall '00	Introduction to Quantum Theory
This course is a continuation of Physics 208. We will continue to develop the formalism of quantum mechanics and to explore its basis. We will apply our methods to phenomena from atomic, high energy, and condensed matter physics.

PHY 403 Fall '00	Mathematical Methods of Physics
Mathematical methods and terminology which are essential for modern theoretical physics. These include some of the traditional techniques of mathematical analysis, but also more modern tools such as group theory and differential geometry. Mathematical theories are not treated as ends in themselves; the goal is to show how mathematical tools are developed to solve physical problems.

PHY 405 Fall '00	Modern Physics I - Condensed Matter Physics
An introduction to modern condensed matter physics. This course builds on quantum and statistical mechanics to study the electronic properties of solids, including band theory, metals, quantum Hall effects, semiconductors, superconductors and magnetism, as well as phase transitions in condensed systems, structure and dynamics of solids, liquids and liquid crystals.

PHY 501 Fall '00	Electricity and Magnetism
A systematic treatment of the theory of electromagnetic phenomena from an advanced standpoint. Maxwell's equations are discussed with special attention to their physical meaning. Other topics include potential theory, macroscopic media, waves in simple media and in bounded structures, radiation, scattering and the limitations of the theory.

PHY 505 Fall '00	Quantum Mechanics I
The physical principles and mathematical formalism of quantum theory, with emphasis on applications to atomic, molecular, and many-body physics; scattering phenomena; and electromagnetism (photon physics).

PRINCETONUNIVERSITY	Site Administrator	Last Updated: 1-31-01	HOME
© 1999-2001 Dept. of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544		tel 609-258-4400 fax 609-258-1124