PHYS 135 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers I

Units: 4 ; Breadth Area: GE-B1, GE-B3
A calculus-based introduction to Newtonian mechanics that emphasizes both conceptual understanding and the ability to solve quantitative problems. Topics of study include kinematics, Newton’s laws, conservation of momentum and energy, rotational motion, gravitation, oscillations, and fluids. Lecture Units: 3; Lab Units: 1.

Co-requisites: MATH 130.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-B1 - Lower Division Physical Science, GE-B3 - Lower Division Laboratory Activity
Course Typically Offered: Fall and Spring

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Students will be able to explain a variety of physical phenomena in terms of the equations of kinematics, Newton’s Laws, the conservation of energy, momentum, and angular momentum, and Newton’s theory of gravity.
Students will apply the principles of physics to solve basic problems, often very similar to those demonstrated in class and in lecture, learning the techniques and systematic approach which is the required groundwork for solving novel and complex problems. Order-of-magnitude estimates, dimensional analysis, and scaling behavior are emphasized. Being able to evaluate if a solution makes intuitive physical sense is stressed.
Students will develop strategies for learning technical subjects and practice active reading and listening skills.
The Laboratory component of the course has the following student learning outcomes: Students taking the Physics 135 Lab component will develop the ability to:
Devise and assemble an experiment to test a physical principle or specific hypothesis using the Scientific Method.
Maintain a professional quality laboratory notebook recording their experimental work, data, and observations in a clear and organized format.
Analyze and plot the data from their experiments and properly apply rigorous error analysis techniques.
Effectively use common experimental tools and equipment.
Formulate a reasonable and meaningful conclusion or summary based on the experimental evidence they have collected. A “Claim-Evidence-Reasoning” based summary strategy will be emphasized.

B1. Physical Science Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical sciences;
demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.

B3. Laboratory Activity Learning Outcomes

Apply their knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical and sciences through laboratory activities;
apply their understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method in a laboratory setting; and
demonstrate accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry, while completing laboratory activities.