Persistence of Memory, 1931, Salvador Dali
Lecture: MW 3:00 - 4:20 PM --- F 3:05 - 3:55 PM, CSC 10-12
Instructor: Carleton DeTar 212 INSCC (Phone: 801-581-7537)
Instructor E-mail: Carleton DeTar
Teaching Assistant and Grader E-mail : Austin King
This course provides an introduction to two key pillars of modern physics, namely, special relativity and quantum mechanics.By the end of this course, students will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of the principles of special relativity and its quantitative consequences for phenomena seen by different observers. They will be able to explain the particle/wave duality of quantum mechanics and the role of the wave function as a device for predicting the probability of outcomes of measurements. They will have a basic understanding of the quantum origin of the periodic table of the elements.
This is a "flipped" class. That is, students are expected to read the relevant sections in the text prior to coming to the first class of each week. We use a required on-line Canvas quiz prior to the first class of each week to check understanding. This pedagogical strategy frees up class time for active student engagement, which has been proven to enhance learning. Class periods will be devoted to discussing the key concepts and to working in groups on in-class exercises. Students receive a participation grade for in-class group work. The Friday discussion section provides help with the weekly homework assignments.
Group study and discussion is strongly encouraged in this course, both inside and outside class. Collaboration on homework is encouraged, provided it involves roughly the same amount of give and take. However, except for group problem assignments, students may submit only their own work for grading, and this work must be written solo, without copying from any other sources. Collaboration on tests is not permitted. Students are on their honor to adhere to this policy.
The course grade is based on daily in-class exercises, weekly quizzes, homework, a midterm exam, and a final exam. Strong emphasis is placed on homework and in-class exercises. Grading formula: in-class exercises 15%, Canvas pre-class quizzes 15%, homework 30%, midterm 20%, final 20%.
Late homework (assignments) will be accepted for half credit up to the last day of class. Assignments with low scores can be redone and also submitted for half credit up to the last day of class.
The University of Utah Department of Physics and Astronomy seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need special accommodations in this class, reasonable prior notice needs to be given to the instructor and to the Center for Disability Services, http://disability.utah.edu/ 162 Olpin Union Bldg, 581-5020 (V/TDD) to make arrangements for accommodations.
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Carleton DeTar Physics 3740 InstructorLast modified 22 November 2019