Physics Course Descriptions

PHY 111 Introduction to Physical Science ... 3
Introduces the basics in a variety of scientific disciplines including classsical (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. CoRequisite: PHY 111

PHY 115 Applied Physics ... 3
General understanding of basic principles and practical applications of mechanics, sound, matter, light, electricity and heat.

PHY 125 Introduction to Physical Geology ... 3
Introduces a basic understanding of the many facets of geology including mineralogy, igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, earthquakes, structural geology, plate tectonics, groundwater, surface water, and the history of life on our planet. Occasional optional field trips are incorporated to reinforce lectures.

PHY 127 Introduction to Physical Geology Laboratory ... 1
Laboratory reinforces topics discussed in Physical Geology lecture (PHY 125) by utilizing practical experimentation and observations.

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. Corequisites: Preceded or accompanied by PHY 130 – Astronomy. No prior knowledge of astronomy assumed.

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. Corequisite: 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. Corequisite: PHY 154. Spring.

PHY 153 General Physics I Laboratory ... 1
Experimental component of PHY 150. Corequisite: PHY 150.

PHY 154 General Physics II Laboratory ... 1
Prerequisites: PHY 150, PHY 153. Experimental component for PHY 151. Corequisite: PHY 151. Spring.

PHY 225 Historical Geology … 3
Examine the evolution of life on Earth from simple, blue-green algae of the Precambrian Eon through Homo sapiens in the Phanerozoic Eon. Earth's 4.5 billion year geologic history will be studied with emphasis on the geology of North America and Missouri. Field trips to study Missouri's geology and abundant fossils may be incorporated.

PHY 227 Historical Geology Laboratory … 1
Examination, identification, and taxonomic classification of fossils from the Precambrian through the Phanerozoic Eons will be a main emphasis in this laboratory. Study of sedimentary strata and structures and interpretation of geologic maps will also be introduced in order to facilitate the interpretation of Earth's history. Corequisite: PHY 225.

PHY 240 College Physics I ... 4
Prerequisite: MAT 180. Calculus-based course for engineering and science majors. Includes mechanics, heat, and sound. Corequisite: 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
Prerequisite: MAT 180. Experimental component of PHY 240. Corequisite: PHY 240.

PHY 244 College Physics II Laboratory ... 1
Prerequisites: PHY 240, PHY 243. Experimental component of PHY 241. Corequisite: PHY 241.