This class is the third semester class in the 247-248-249 introductory physics sequence, an introductury physics sequence intended for physics majors, astronomy majors and applied math, engineering and physics majors. The prerequisites for the class are that you should have taken physics 248 the previous semester. We take great liberties in the order in which material is presented, and so unless you have been with us up until now, it probably does not make sense to join our group

Topics Covered in 249:

This semester we will be covering the following:

• Spin and fine structure of the hydrogen atom.
• Optics.
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics.
• Molecular Physics.
• Solid State Physic.
• Nuclear Physics.
• Fusion, fission and plasma physics.
• Particle Physics.
• String Theory.

   

Aproximate Schedule...>>

Grading:

Your grade will be based on a weighted average of your work as follows:

The 10% is applied to your lowest midterm grade. We will drop your lowest homework score.The grade lines are 87 A, 75 B, 50 C.Evaluation of classroom discussion can improve borderline grades.