The word physics originates from the Greek word for nature. Physicists attempt to understand the basic principles that govern the behavior of the natural world in which we live. The courses in physics and astronomy are designed to serve both students interested in science as an important part of a general education and those desiring intensive training in physical science. Students may major in physics as preparation for further professional training in physics, astronomy, or engineering, or as excellent background for careers in other fields such as medicine, law, biology, geology, and secondary-school science teaching. Physics and Astronomy students at Oberlin have opportunities to work closely with faculty members on research projects during academic terms, winter terms, and summers.

Advanced Placement. Students who earn sufficiently high scores on advanced placement examinations in physics will be given credit for all or part of Physics 103 and 104 or Physics 110 and 111 according to the following schedule:

Physics B examination: Students earning a score of 4 will receive four hours of credit for Physics 103; students earning a score of 5 will receive eight hours of credit for Physics 103 and 104.

Physics C examination (Mechanics): Students earning a score of 4 or 5 will receive four hours of credit for Physics 110.

Physics C examination (Electricity and Magnetism): Students earning a score of 5 will receive four hours of credit for Physics 111.

Students earning any credit through these examinations will receive full QP credit.

High-school students who might wish to major in physics should take the calculus-based Physics C courses and examinations, if possible.

Students who have received advanced placement in either physics or mathematics and who are considering physics as a possible major should consult the Chair of the Physics and Astronomy Department upon arrival in Oberlin regarding course selection and major requirements. Although Physics 103 and 104 are not the normal prerequisites for Physics 212 and upper-level courses, the department is prepared to arrange a transition to these courses for those who have earned credit through the Physics B examination, have good backgrounds in mathematics, and are interested in majoring in physics.

Entry-Level Course Sequence Suggestions. Students considering a major in physics who qualify for Mathematics 134, 231 or 234 as first-year students should take those courses and Physics 110, 111. Those without advanced standing in mathematics should take Mathematics 133, 134 as first-year students and Physics 110, 111 as sophomores; such students may take the full graduate study preparation program with the exception of Physics 410 and Physics 411, and be prepared for graduate work in physics.

Physics 110, 111, and 212 provide training useful to students of any of the physical sciences or mathematics. Students majoring in the life and earth sciences are also encouraged to take these courses if they have the necessary mathematical background.

Physics 103, 104 are primarily for students majoring in the life and earth sciences. With the permission of the department an exceptional student who has taken all or part of Physics 103, 104 may use it as background for further work in physics.

Physics courses numbered 050-070 are designed for College and Conservatory students whose primary interests may not lie in the natural sciences but who wish to have a first hand acquaintance with the techniques and results of physical science.

Major Work. A Physics major is required to pass Physics 110, 111, 212 and choose one of two concentrations:

Concentration in Physics. Students selecting this concentration must pass Physics 314, 414, and at least three courses chosen from Physics 310, 311, 312, 410, and 412. This "minimum program" is appropriate for students using physics as preparation for careers in fields such as medicine, law, business, or secondary-school teaching. (Such students will also find courses in chemistry, biology, and computer science to be valuable.) Students who wish to pursue physics as a career in research or in college or university teaching should take the graduate study preparation program, which consists of all the courses listed above (i.e., it includes all five of Physics 310, 311, 312, 410, and 412). A graduate of this program could pursue undelayed full-time graduate study in physics or could enter certain positions in industrial or governmental laboratories.

Concentration in Astrophysics. Students selecting this concentration must pass Astronomy 301, 302, Physics 310, 311, 314 and either Physics 414 or 242. Students who wish to become professional astronomers should consult Mr. Stinebring or Mr. Martin to discuss additional coursework that will permit admission to graduate study in astronomy.

Prerequisites for the courses in either concentration include Mathematics 133, 134, 231, and 234. Computer applications are important in all branches of physics and astronomy. All majors are urged to consult their advisors about obtaining the appropriate background.

Minor. The minor in physics consists of Physics 110, 111, 212, and six credit hours of courses numbered between 200 and 450. At least three of these courses must be taken at Oberlin.

Honors. The Honors Program is open to outstanding senior-year major students at the invitation of the department. Students in this program will normally be expected to complete the graduate study preparation program of courses described above and must carry out a special project in experimental or theoretical physics or astrophysics under the direction of a member of the department. Honors students write a thesis based on their work and take comprehensive examinations. The Physics major requirement of Physics 414 may be waived upon request for an Honors student whose project is in experimental physics.

Other Programs. Students with special interests are encouraged to include physics and astronomy courses in an individual major, or to plan a double major. Those interested in careers in engineering may take a physics major, or they may consider the Combined Liberal Arts and Engineering Program described under "Engineering" in this catalog.

Winter Term. Physics and Astronomy faculty will consider sponsoring student-initiated experimental or theoretical (reading) projects in areas of physics or astronomy. Staff members have special interests in the areas shown below.

Students who wish to become professional astronomers should consult Mr. Stinebring to arrange a program of courses (within the framework of a physics major) that will permit admission to graduate study in astronomy.

Courses for a general audience. College and Conservatory students whose primary interests may not lie in the natural sciences but who wish to have a first-hand acquaintance with the techniques and results of astronomy should consider ASTR 100.

100. Introductory Astronomy
3 hours, 3NS, QPh
First Semester.
This course, designed primarily for students with little scientific background, is an introduction to what we know about astronomy and how we know it. We will study the light, the tools of astronomy, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. We will also cover sky basics such as seasons, moon phases, eclipses, and constellations. There will be required participation in five planetarium sessions (half an hour per biweekly session) and four observatory sessions during the Semester. Enrollment Limit: 120.
Mr. Stinebring

117. Meteorite Impacts in Space and Time
1 hour, 1NS
Second Semester.
Second Module. Identical to GEOL 117. For description, please see "Geology" in this catalog. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Mr. Simonson

301. Astrophysics I: Stars and Planets
3 hours, 3NS
Next offered 2006-2007.

302. Astrophysics II: Galaxies and Cosmology
3 hours, 3NS
Second Semester.
This course will explore basic astrophysical topics beyond the local stellar neighborhood. We will consider the "ecology" of the Milky Way galaxy and use it to understand galaxies in isolation and in clusters. Cosmological topics will include the dynamics of an expanding universe including an acceleration term. Results from anisotropy studies of the cosmic background radiation will be studied in some detail. Evidence for dark matter and dark energy will be thoroughly reviewed. Prerequisite: PHYS 212. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Stinebring

051. Einstein and Relativity
1 hour, 1NS
Next offered 2006-2007.

052. The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics
1 hour, 1NS, QPh
Next offered 2006-2007.

054. Musical Acoustics
3 hours, 3NS, QPh
First Semester.
The basic principles of physics (mechanics, wave motion, and sound) which influence the design and performance characteristics of musical instruments will be studied. The major groups of modern orchestral and keyboard instruments will be discussed, and the physics of hearing, singing, harmony, tuning temperaments, and room acoustics will be included. Group projects will be required. Only elementary mathematics is used; review and assistance will be given to those who need it. Enrollment Limit: 75.
Mr. Richards

068. Energy Technology
3 hours, 3NS
Second Semester.
This course is designed to introduce students to a variety of issues associated with the generation and consumption of energy in modern society. Topics to be covered include the sun's energy, electric energy production and distribution, and energy use in transportation, buildings and industry. Technologies discussed include photovoltaic and wind energy, nuclear power, heat pumps, fuel cells, and hybrid cars. Prerequisite: none. Enrollment Limit: 75.
Mr. Scofield

103. Elementary Physics I
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
An introduction to classical mechanics, fluids, waves, and optics, intended primarily for students majoring in the life or earth sciences, but also accessible to non-science majors having good high-school mathematics preparation. Algebra and trigonometry are used extensively. Notes: Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 103 and PHYS 110. Those planning to major in physics should take PHYS 110. The laboratory is an integral part of this course and may not be taken alone. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Mr. Richards, Ms. Keller

104. Elementary Physics II
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
Second Semester.
An introduction to electricity and magnetism, special relativity, and modern physics, including applications to geology, biology, and medicine. Intended primarily for students in the life and earth sciences; those planning to major in physics should take PHYS 111 instead. Prerequisite: PHYS 103 or consent of instructor. Notes: May not be taken for credit in addition to PHYS 111. The laboratory is an integral part of this course and may not be taken alone. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Ms. Keller, Mr. Martin

110. Mechanics and Relativity
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
An introductory study of Newtonian mechanics and special relativity, focusing on conceptual understanding, problem solving, and laboratory work. Topics include point-particle dynamics, conservation principles, oscillation, systems of particles, rotation; time dilation, length contraction, and the relativity of simultaneity. Co-requisite: MATH 134 or equivalent. Note: May not be taken for credit in addition to PHYS 103. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Mr. FitzGerald, Mr. Martin

111. Electricity, Magnetism, and Thermodynamics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
Second Semester.
This is the second course in the three-semester calculus-based introductory sequence. Topics include electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of matter, direct and alternating current circuits, electromagnetic phenomena, thermodynamics, and kinetic theory. Co-requisite: MATH 231. Prerequisite: PHYS 110. Note: May not be taken for credit in addition to PHYS 104. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Ms. Ijiri, Mr. Stinebring

212. Modern Physics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
This is the last course in the three-semester calculus-based introductory physics sequence. The course covers waves and topics in modern (20th-century) physics. Topics include relativistic dynamics, quantum properties of light, wave properties of matter, elementary wave mechanics, nuclear and particle physics, and statistical physics. Prerequisites: PHYS 111 and MATH 231. Enrollment Limit: 48.
Ms. Keller, Mr. Scofield, Mr. Stinebring

242. Electronics
3 hours, 3NS, QPf
Next offered 2006-2007.

310. Classical Mechanics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
Second Semester.
Newtonian mechanics of particles and systems: Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations, oscillators, central force motion, and rigid body motion. Some use will be made of computers. Prerequisites: PHYS 212 and MATH 234. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Richards

311. Electricity and Magnetism
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
Second Semester.
An in-depth study of electric and magnetic fields and their effects on matter. Vector calculus will be used extensively after a brief review of it. We will learn to solve a variety of boundary value problems using techniques useful in many areas of physics. We will explore Maxwell's equations in detail, culminating in an introduction to electromagnetic radiation. Practical topics will be interspersed throughout the course. Prerequisites: PHYS 310 and MATH 234. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Scofield

312. Quantum Mechanics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
A rigorous study of the foundations of quantum mechanics, with applications to one-dimensional systems, angular momentum, and the hydrogen atom. Stationary-state perturbation theory. Mathematical solutions to the Schrödinger equation will be developed. Prerequisites: PHYS 212 and PHYS 310 and MATH 234. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. FitzGerald

314. Intermediate Laboratory
3 hours, 3NS, QPf
First Semester.
Introduction to physics laboratory techniques, such as the use of vacuum systems, optical devices, lock-in amplifiers, cryostats, and nuclear instrumentation. Each student attends two laboratory sessions per week and turns in short reports for each experiment with two longer ones at the middle and end of the Semester. Prerequisite: PHYS 212. Enrollment Limit: 16.
Ms. Ijiri

340. Solid State Physics
3 hours, 3NS, QPf
Second Semester.
A study of the structure and physical properties of materials. Crystal structure, band theory, and scattering are discussed to understand electrical, optical, and magnetic characteristics of solids. Prerequisite: PHYS 212. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Ms. Ijiri

351. Contemporary Topics in Physics and Astronomy
3 hours, 3NS
First Semester.
Physicists are constantly discovering new things about the world we live in. Using recent research articles and class presentations, we will learn about the frontiers of physics and how each of us can become involved. Additional topics may include traditional and non-traditional career tracks for physicists, graduate school, and federal science policy. Prerequisite: PHYS 312. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Mr. Martin

410. Statistical Mechanics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
Thermodynamics, classical and quantal statistical mechanics, entropy, temperature, chemical potential, ensembles. Applications include magnetism, phase transitions, heat capacities of gases and solids, thermal radiation, ideal fermion and boson gases. Prerequisite: PHYS 312 or CHEM 339. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Scofield

412. Applied Quantum Mechanics
4 hours, 4NS, QPf
Second Semester.
Building upon the foundations of quantum mechanics, we will investigate how these concepts are used in modern physics. Depending on student and professor interest, we will investigate some of the following topics: time-dependent perturbation theory, variational methods, scattering theory, relativistic quantum field theories, quantum electrodynamics, Feynman diagrams, computational methods in quantum mechanics, quantum computers, and experimental tests and implications of quantum mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 312. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Mr. Martin

414. Advanced Laboratory
3 hours, 3NS, QPf
Second Semester.
Each student attends two laboratory sessions per week and performs, semi-independently, five to six experiments chosen from the fields of atomic, nuclear, and elementary particle physics, condensed matter physics, and optics. Students must keep an organized laboratory notebook, turn in short reports describing the key results of each experiment, and write a longer paper describing one experiment in the form of a research publication. Prerequisite: PHYS 314. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Mr. FitzGerald

451. Special Problems in Physics and Astronomy
1-5 hours, 1-5NS
Special coursework or research projects for students at all levels who are prepared to work independently. Note: CR/NE or P/NP grading. Consent of instructor required. Projects sponsored by Mr. Fitzgerald, Ms. Ijiri, Ms. Keller, Mr. Martin, Mr. Richards, Mr. Scofield, Mr. Stinebring, and Mr. Styer.

555. Research
2-6 hours, 2-6NS
Projects for individual investigation. Interested students are encouraged to speak with faculty members about possible projects. Students in the Physics Honors program are required to enroll. Consent of instructor required. Projects sponsored by Mr. Fitzgerald, Ms. Ijiri, Ms. Keller, Mr. Martin, Mr. Richards, Mr. Scofield, Mr. Stinebring, and Mr. Styer.

995. Private Reading
1-3 hours, 1-3NS
Consent of instructor required. Projects sponsored by Mr. Fitzgerald, Ms. Ijiri, Ms. Keller, Mr. Martin, Mr. Richards, Mr. Scofield, Mr. Stinebring, and Mr. Styer.