Physics

Physics 105a is the first semester of a one‐year introductory physics sequence that continues with Physics 106b in the spring or fall (for students who’ve already studied material equivalent to Physics 105). This course is oriented toward students considering majoring in the physical sciences, especially physics, astronomy or astrophysics, chemistry and mathematics.

Topics will cover Newtonian mechanics which includes equations of motion, in one, two and three dimensions using vector algebra; work-energy, energy conservation, momentum and collisions, rotation and angular momentum, gravity and orbits and static equilibrium; an introduction to oscillations; and waves and thermodynamics. Knowledge of calculus is assumed.

Treatment of many body systems using classical and quantum statistics and ensembles to derive the laws of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. This course includes applications to the thermal properties of matter (solids, liquids and gases), photon, and phonon systems.; Prerequisite(s): PHYS H214 and either PHYS H213 or PHYS B306

Concepts in Thermal Physics, 2nd Ed., by Stephen J Blundell & Katherine M Blundell