Course Descriptions

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Physical Science Course Descriptions

PHY 105 Environmental Geology ... 3

Examination of geologic processes and hazards that influence human activities and the geologic aspects of pollution and waste-disposal.

PHY 107 Environmental Geology Laboratory ... 1

Exercises focus on environmental and social issues relevant to environmental problems and the effects of human interaction in geologic processes.

Corequisites: PHY 105-Environmental Geology.

PHY 111 Introduction to Physical Science ... 3

Introduces the basics in a variety of scientific disciplines including classical (Newtonian) physics, energy, matter and heat, wave behavior, electricity and magnetism, modern physics (the atom and nucleus), geology, and astronomy. Basic high school math/algebra is utilized in portions of this course.

PHY 113 Introduction to Physical Science Laboratory ... 1

Laboratory reinforces topics discussed in Physical Science lecture (PHY 111) by utilizing hands-on experimentation.

Corequisites: Preceded or accompanied by PHY 111.

PHY 125 Introduction to Physical Geology ... 3

Introduces a basic understanding of topics in physical geology including the unifying theory of plate tectonics, discussions of Earth materials (rocks and minerals), internal processes (volcanism, earthquakes), surface processes (surface and ground water, weathering, erosion), and geologic time. Campus outings will be incorporated to emphasize Missouri geology.

PHY 127 Introduction to Physical Geology Laboratory ... 1

Laboratory reinforces topics discussed in Physical Geology lecture (PHY 125) by utilizing practical experimentation and observations.

Corequisites: Preceded or accompanied by PHY 125.

PHY 130 Astronomy ... 3

Nonmathematical introduction to astronomy designed primarily for non-science majors. Topics include the history and cultural impact of astronomy, properties of solar system, and stellar structures. Supplemented by occasional hours of evening observation.

PHY 131 Astronomy Laboratory ... 1

Analysis and interpretation of astronomical data and observations with telescopes. No prior knowledge of astronomy assumed.

Corequisites: Preceded or accompanied by PHY 130 - Astronomy.

PHY 150 General Physics I ... 3

Prerequisites: MAT 150, or MAT 160

Survey of kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotational motion, fluids, and thermodynamics. Non-calculus in approach. Three hours of lecture-recitation and two hours of laboratory per week.

Corequisites: PHY 153

PHY 151 General Physics II ... 3

Prerequisites: PHY 150, PHY 153

Begins with wave motion, but emphasis on electricity and magnetism. Treats geometric and wave optics. Non-calculus in approach. Three hours of lecture-recitation and two hours of laboratory per week.

Corequisites: PHY 154

PHY 153 General Physics I Laboratory ... 1

Experimental component of PHY 150.

Corequisites: PHY 150

PHY 154 General Physics II Laboratory ... 1

Prerequisites: PHY 150, PHY 153

Experimental component for PHY 151.

Corequisites: PHY 151

PHY 225 Historical Geology ... 3

Introduces an understanding of the history of Earth"s development including identification and interpretation of sediments, sedimentary rocks and rock structures, environments of deposition, major tectonic and depositional events of North America, and the evolution of life. Campus outings will be incorporated to emphasize Missouri geology.

PHY 227 Historical Geology Laboratory ... 1

Exercises in interpreting Earth's history by examination of sediments, sedimentary rocks, geologic time, and identification and taxonomic classification of fossils.

Corequisites: PHY 225

PHY 240 College Physics I ... 4

Prerequisites: MAT 180

Calculus-based course for engineering and science majors. Includes mechanics, heat, and sound.

Corequisites: PHY 243

PHY 241 College Physics II ... 4

Prerequisites: PHY 240, PHY 243

Continuation of PHY 240 introducing electricity, magnetism, and light.

Corequisites: PHY 244

PHY 243 College Physics I Laboratory ... 1

Prerequisites: MAT 180

Experimental component of PHY 240.

Corequisites: PHY 240

PHY 244 College Physics II Laboratory ... 1