PHYS 237Introduction to Modern Physics
Relativity and quantum theory with applications to selected topics in atomic, molecular, solid state, or nuclear physics. This course covers much of the modern physics curriculum focusing on special relativity, the concepts and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics in one- and three-dimensional model systems, and some applications of quantum theory to modern topics such as atomic/molecular, nuclear, particle, condensed matter physics or astrophysics as time permits. The course is a prerequisite for a upper level courses in physics and astronomy majors, and in particular quantum mechanics.
Prerequisites
Where it sits in degree plans
Suggested plans most often put it in Year 2 · Spring (4 programs).
Required in (4)
- Astronomy and Astrophysics, B.S.
- Physics, B.S. (Behrend)
- Physics, B.S. (Science)
- Physics, Minor
One of the options in (1)
- Electrical Engineering, B.S. (Behrend)
Courses that list PHYS 237 as a prerequisite (15)
- ASTRO 414 Stellar Structure and Evolution
- ASTRO 440 Introduction to Astrophysics
- ASTRO 485 Introduction to High-Energy Astronomy
- CHEM 406 Nuclear and Radiochemistry
- ESC 414M Elements of Material Engineering
- MATH 479 Special and General Relativity
- NUCE 405 Nuclear and Radiochemistry
- PHYS 410 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I
- PHYS 414 Solid State Physics
- PHYS 420 Thermal Physics
- PHYS 421W Research Methods in Physics
- PHYS 430 Introduction to Computational Physics
- PHYS 457W Experimental Physics
- PHYS 472 Elements of Nuclear Physics and its Applications to Medical Imaging and Treatments
- PHYS 479 Special and General Relativity