Physics and Astronomy

Consonant with the liberal arts nature of Carleton, our department serves not only physics and astronomy majors but also other science majors requiring a background in physics or astronomy, and non-science majors desiring an introduction to these subjects. We have goals for the knowledge we would like students to acquire, the skills they should master, and the experiences they should have in learning and doing physics. For example, some of the general skills are the ability to communicate clearly in written work and oral presentation; the ability to locate information through library research and other means; and the ability to continue learning on a largely independent basis. More specific skills include logical problem-solving and mathematical analysis, experimental design and the use of measurement apparatus, and the use of computers for modeling physical phenomena and for data acquisition and analysis.

Requirements for a Major

Prospective physics majors are strongly encouraged to begin their study of physics and mathematics in the first year. Physics courses are somewhat sequential and are developed in close association with mathematics courses. The curriculum provides an excellent basis for may post-Carleton career paths, including teaching, working in industry, and graduate study in physics, astronomy, and in various fields of engineering.

Most first-year students considering a major in physics will take either two 5-week courses (Physics 151 AND Physics 131 or Physics 141 or Physics 142) or one 10-week course (Phys 143 or Physics 144). Although taught from slightly different perspectives, the two 5-week courses or the 10-week course will cover fundamental topics in Newtonian mechanics and special relativity that prepare students for further work in physics and related fields. When scheduling permits, we also offer a section of Physics 143 with problem solving. This section will provide additional problem solving instruction and review and is appropriate for students who have had a high school physics course but could benefit from additional support in the study of college-level physics.

Required courses, 72 credits total

Introductory courses required are either:

  • Physics 151 AND Physics 131 or Physics 141 or Physics 142 (3 credits each)
  • Physics 143 or Physics 144 (6 credits each)

Other required Physics courses:

  • Physics 228
  • Physics 231-6 credits (or 229 and 230-3 credits each),
  • Physics 235
  • Physics 335
  • Physics 342
  • Physics 400
  • plus one applied physics course:
    • Physics 234
    • Physics 261
    • Physics 341
    • Physics 343
    • Physics 344
    • Physics 346
    • Physics 347
    • Physics 354
    • Astronomy 232
    • Astronomy 233
    • Environmental and Technology Studies 262
    • Geology 240
    • or others upon consultation with the department

Required mathematics courses:

  • Mathematics 111
  • Mathematics 121
  • Mathematics 211
  • Mathematics 232

Additional courses that are often recommended include Physics 123, 346, 356, Astronomy 113, 356, Chemistry 123, Mathematics 241, 261, 341, and Computer Science 111. Students considering graduate school in physics are strongly encouraged to take Physics 346, 352, and 355.

Major Under Combined Plan in Engineering (See Engineering):

In addition to completing the requirements for the physics major listed above, the student should also take the following courses required for admission to the engineering schools: Mathematics 241, Chemistry 123, 230, and Computer Science 111.

Physics Courses (PHYS)

PHYS 100 The Physics of Phitness An introduction to both physics and fitness that seeks to pair two seemingly disparate topics. Study work and energy with free weights, springs with resistance bands, fluids in the pool, power generation with stationary bikes, and more. Classes include lectures and workouts, so get ready to think on your feet! No experience with either subject required. 6 credits; AI, QRE, WR1; Fall; Frank T McNally
PHYS 123 What Physicists Do A program of five lectures by invited speakers that is intended to give students some perspective on the kinds of work done by people with a physics background. Visitors from industry, government, business, and research and educational institutions will discuss their work and work-related experiences. Prerequisite: Physics 131, 143, 144, 145, 151, 152, or 165. 1 credit; S/CR/NC; NE; Spring; Joel M Weisberg
PHYS 131 Introduction to Physics: Newtonian Mechanics A traditional introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. The kinematics and dynamics of some simple systems are investigated using Newton's laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in or successful completion of Mathematics 101 or 111, not open to students who have completed Physics 143, 144 or 145 at Carleton. 3 credits; LS, QRE; Fall; Eric L Hazlett
PHYS 142 Introduction to Physics: Matter and Interactions & Lab An introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview and computational methods. The kinematics and dynamics of objects in motion are investigated using Newton's laws and related conservation laws. This course emphasizes a bottom-up atomic perspective and introduces a computational approach to allow the consideration of atoms and molecules inside solids as well. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory or computational work. Prerequisite: Mathematics 120 or 121 (completion or concurrent registration) Not open to students who have completed Physics 131, 143, 144 or 145 at Carleton. 3 credits; LS, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 143 Physical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity This course begins with an introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. The kinematics and dynamics of some simple systems are investigated using Newton's laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. The course moves beyond the Newtonian framework to address topics including special relativity and also selected applications to atomic, nuclear, and particle physics. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Previous completion of Mathematics 101 or 111. Not open to students who have completed Physics 131, 144, 145 or 151 at Carleton. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter, Spring; Andrés Aragoneses, Marty Baylor
PHYS 144 Astrophysical Systems: Mechanics and Relativity This course begins by considering basic principles of physics in the realm of planetary systems, black holes and dark matter in the universe. Conservation of energy and momentum will be used to explore large-scale phenomena in the cosmos. The course moves beyond the Newtonian framework to address topics including special relativity and also selected applications to atomic, nuclear, and particle physics. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Previous completion of Mathematics 120 or 121. Not open to students who have completed Physics 131, 143, 145 or 151 at Carleton. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter; Cindy Blaha
PHYS 145 Mechanics and Waves This course begins with an introduction to classical mechanics using the Newtonian worldview. The kinematics and dynamics of some simple systems are investigated using Newton's laws, vector analysis, and the conservation laws of momentum and energy. The course moves on to a study of the properties of fluids (both static and dynamic) and the principles of waves and wave motion (including both sound and light). Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Mathematics 101 or 111. Not open to students who have completed Physics 131, 143, or 144 at Carleton. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Spring; Jay D Tasson
PHYS 151 Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles An introduction to principles of physics in the domain of the very small and very fast. Topics include the special theory of relativity, and selected applications to atomic, nuclear, and particle physics. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Mathematics 101 or 111 (completion or concurrent registration) and Physics 131 (completion or concurrent registration). Not open to students who have completed Physics 143 or 144 at Carleton. 3 credits; LS, QRE; Fall; Eric L Hazlett
PHYS 152 Introduction to Physics: Environmental Physics An introduction to principles of physics and their application to the environment. Topics include energy and its flows, engines, energy efficiency, energy usage and conservation in vehicles and buildings, the atmosphere, and climate change. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. Weekly laboratory work or field trips. Prerequisite: Mathematics 101, 111 (completion or concurrent registration) and Physics 131 (completion or concurrent registration), 143, 144 or 145. 3 credits; LS, QRE; Fall; Andrés Aragoneses
PHYS 165 Introduction to Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics A study of the principles of electricity, magnetism, and optics with an emphasis on real-world applications including electronics, laser physics, astronomy, and medicine. Topics include electric and magnetic fields, electric potentials, DC and AC circuits, geometric and wave optics, and relevant properties of matter. Designed for science majors who want additional background in physics. Comfort with algebra and the integration and differentiation of elementary functions is assumed. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Physics 131, 143, 144, or 145. Mathematics 101 or 111. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter; Frank T McNally
PHYS 210 Sustainable Energy Principles and Design Introduction to the basic physics, thermodynamics, and engineering of energy sources and sinks. Overview of relevant sustainable energy practices and design principles, as well consideration of broader impacts and policy implications. The course will consider the world energy landscape with particular local and global foci. Includes a significant group academic civic engagement project that focuses on renewable energy design. Design projects vary, but include aspects of energy auditing, regulatory evaluation, performance analysis, and system design and operation of solar PV, wind turbines, or other renewable energy technologies. Extra meetings required. Prerequisite: 6 credits of Physics, not Physics 100. Physics 211 required winter term. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Fall; Arjendu K Pattanayak
PHYS 211 Sustainable Energy Practice and Prospects (India) This course is the second part of a two term course sequence beginning with PHYS 210. We start with a two-week field trip in December to Auroville, on the Southeast coast of India near Chennai. Week one includes an introduction to local issues and meetings with local experts, site visits to installed systems, refining system designs submitted in fall term, and other preparation. Week two the sustainable energy system will be installed. On campus during winter term, we will meet once a week. Students will complete reports documenting the project and their learning experience for Auroville, and one of (i) case-studies and proposals for installation for future students and other locations,(ii) business plans/project design/application for junior fellowships, or (iii) educational materials for various possible audiences. There will be public presentations. Prerequisite: Physics 210 term before. 6 credits; NE; Winter; Arjendu K Pattanayak
PHYS 228 Atomic and Nuclear Physics An elementary but analytical introduction to the physics of atoms and nuclei. Topics include the particle aspects of electromagnetic radiation, an introduction to quantum mechanics, the wave aspects of material particles, the structure of atoms, X-ray and optical spectra, instruments of nuclear and particle physics, nuclear structure and elementary particles. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Physics 143, 144 or 151 and Mathematics 120. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Fall; Marty Baylor
PHYS 231 Analytical and Computational Mechanics An analytical and computational treatment of classical mechanics using Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms. A variety of systems, including some whose equations of motion cannot be solved analytically, will be explored. Possible examples include harmonic oscillators, central-force problems, chaotic dynamics, astrophysical systems, and medieval siege engines. Prerequisite: Physics 131, 143 or 144 and Mathematics 210 or 211 (completion or concurrent registration) or instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Jay D Tasson
PHYS 232 Astrophysics I A study of stellar structure and evolution with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the birth, evolution, and death of stars, pulsars, black holes, and white dwarfs. Prerequisite: Physics 226, 228 or 231. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 233 Astrophysics II A study of galactic and extragalactic astronomy with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies, the interstellar medium, quasars and active galaxies, clusters and superclusters, and cosmology. Prerequisite: Physics 228 or 231. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Cindy Blaha
PHYS 234 Computer Simulations in Complex Physical Systems The development of techniques to study complex physical systems from a probabilistic and numerical standpoint, focused on cellular automata models. Subject material is applicable to all the sciences and mathematics. Some topics considered are random walks, percolation clusters, avalanches, traffic flow, the spread of forest fires and diseases, and a brief introduction to Bayesian statistics. No computer programming skills are assumed. Prerequisite: Physics 131, 143, or 144, or instructor permission. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 235 Electricity and Magnetism Electric and magnetic fields in free space, and their interactions with charges and currents. Topics include DC and AC circuits, Maxwell's equations, and electromagnetic waves. Weekly laboratory work. Prerequisite: Physics 165, 226, 228 or Physics 231; Mathematics 210 or Mathematics 211; or instructor permission. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Spring; Andrés Aragoneses
PHYS 335 Quantum Mechanics An examination of the structure of non-relativistic quantum mechanics and how this theory differs from those of classical physics. Topics include the mathematics of Hilbert space, the postulates of quantum mechanics, the motion of a particle in one dimension (including the free particle and the simple harmonic oscillator), the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, and spin. Multidimensional applications will include the harmonic oscillator, the hydrogen atom. Approximation techniques and applications will be presented. Prerequisite: Physics 226 or 228, and Physics 231 and Mathematics 232. Familiarity with matrix algebra is assumed. 6 credits; NE; Winter; Arjendu K Pattanayak
PHYS 341 Waves The analysis of wave phenomena, including normal mode expansions, the wave equation and boundary value problems, and interference, diffraction, dispersion, and polarization. Applications are made to mechanical, sound, water and electromagnetic waves with particular emphasis on both the unifying principles across all wave phenomena, as well as the nuances of particular types of waves. Prerequisite: Physics 231 and 235, and Mathematics 232. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 342 Contemporary Experimental Physics A study of experimental techniques and apparatus basic to the measurements which underlie and validate contemporary theories in physics. Topics include electrical measurements, data analysis and statistics, optical and laser techniques, particle detectors, and time coincidence techniques. Applications are made to experiments such as magnetic resonance, Mossbauer and nuclear spectroscopy and laser optics. Class time is devoted to studying the measurement techniques and considering phenomenological models of the effects observed in the laboratory. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: (Physics 227 or 228) and 235 and (Physics 335 or Physic 346) or instructor permission. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Spring; Melissa Eblen-Zayas
PHYS 343 Electronics and Lab A study of the electrical circuits and electronics underlying modern physics instrumentation. Includes an introduction to microprocessor and microcomputer design. Approximately equal emphasis on analog and digital electronics. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Physics 235. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 344 Classical and Quantum Optics A junior/senior level course in classical and quantum optics. Includes the phenomena of interference, diffraction and coherence and quantum optical applications, such as unique statistical states of light or the operation of a laser. Modern applications of these areas are studied through such topics as fiber optics telecommunication, optical data storage, or manipulation of atoms by light. Prerequisite: Physics 235 and Mathematics 232. 6 credits; NE; Winter; Marty Baylor
PHYS 345 Advanced Optics This is a laboratory course that will serve as a follow-up to Physics 344, Classical and Quantum Optics. Students will conduct a number of experiments pertaining to optical phenomena. The experiments will display effects pertaining to classical, quantum, and non-linear optics. The lab will take place once a week for four hours each session. Prerequisite: Corequisite Physics 344 or permission of the instructor. 2 credits; QRE, LS; Winter; Marty Baylor
PHYS 346 Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics The fundamentals of classical thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Topics include the laws of thermodynamics; heat engines and refrigerators; the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution; the various canonical distributions; the statistical concepts of temperature and entropy; Fermi-Dirac, and Bose-Einstein distributions with applications to black-body radiation, phonons, and electrons in solids; the Ising model; and an introduction to critical phenomena. Prerequisite: Physics 226 or 228. 6 credits; NE; Fall; Frank T McNally
PHYS 347 General Relativity Einstein's theory of general relativity is developed from basic physical principles. Also presented is the mathematics of curved space time. Astrophysical applications of general relativity, including spherically symmetric objects, black holes, cosmology and the creation and detection of gravitational waves are given. Prerequisite: Physics 235 and Physic 231. 6 credits; NE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 352 Advanced Electricity and Magnetism The classical theory of fields and waves. Electromagnetic theory including Maxwell's equations, radiation and relativity. Prerequisite: Physics 235, Mathematics 341 strongly recommended. 6 credits; NE; Spring; Arjendu K Pattanayak
PHYS 354 Solid State Physics An introduction to the physics of solids. Particular attention is paid to the properties exhibited by atoms and molecules because of their association and regular periodic arrangement in crystals. Topics include crystal structure and diffraction, the reciprocal lattice, phonons and lattice vibrations, thermal properties, free-electron theory and band structure. Prerequisite: Physics 335 or 346. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
PHYS 355 Topics in Advanced Classical Mechanics Lagrangian and Hamiltonian methods including central force motion, coupled harmonic oscillators, and the study of continuous systems. Additional subjects may include fluid dynamics, classical field theory or other specialized topics. Prerequisite: Physics 231. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Fall; Jay D Tasson
PHYS 356 Special Project Individual projects in experimental, theoretical, or computational physics. Available projects are often related to faculty research interests or to the development of course-support materials, such as new laboratory exercises. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. 2-3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE; Fall, Winter, Spring; Marty Baylor, Nelson L Christensen, Arjendu K Pattanayak, Eric L Hazlett, Melissa Eblen-Zayas, Jay D Tasson, Joel M Weisberg, Cindy Blaha, Andrés Aragoneses
PHYS 400 Integrative Exercise An extensive study of a specific topic in physics, culminating in a 60-minute presentation during winter or spring term and a 7500 word paper. Students may arrange to complete the bulk of their work during winter or spring term (Physics 400, 6 credits), or divide their effort between terms (Physics 400, winter, 3 credits; Physics 400, spring, 3 credits). 3-6 credits; S/NC; Winter, Spring; Marty Baylor, Cindy Blaha, Jay D Tasson, Melissa Eblen-Zayas, Arjendu K Pattanayak, Frank T McNally, Eric L Hazlett, Joel M Weisberg, Andrés Aragoneses

Astronomy Courses

ASTR 110 Introduction to Astronomy An introduction to current astronomy with an emphasis on how we know what we know. Topics include the solar system; the life cycles of stars; pulsars, quasars, and black holes; and the history and future fate of the universe. No mathematics background beyond high school algebra and trigonometry is assumed. 6 credits; QRE, LS; Fall, Spring; Cindy Blaha, Frank T McNally
ASTR 113 Observational and Laboratory Astronomy Theory and practice of basic techniques in observational and laboratory astronomy. Certain problems involve the use of the 16-inch and 8-inch telescopes. Prerequisite: Astronomy 100, 110, 127, 232, 233, Physics 226, 228, 232, 233 or instructor permission. 3 credits; S/CR/NC; LS, QRE; Fall, Spring; Joel M Weisberg, Cindy Blaha
ASTR 127 Topics in Modern Astrophysics Special topics in modern astrophysics will be explored in order to understand the physical processes at work in a variety of cosmic settings. Possible topics include the solar weather and its impact on Earth, extra-solar planets, black holes, dark matter, gravitational lensing, large-scale structures and dark energy in an accelerating universe. Prerequisite: Astronomy 100, or 110, or Physics 131, 143, 144 or 145. 6 credits; QRE, NE, WR2; Not offered 2016-17
ASTR 232 Astrophysics I A study of stellar structure and evolution with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the birth, evolution, and death of stars, pulsars, black holes, and white dwarfs. Prerequisite: Physics 226, 228, 231 or instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
ASTR 233 Astrophysics II A study of galactic and extragalactic astronomy with an emphasis on the physical principles underlying the observed phenomena. Topics include the structure and dynamics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies, the interstellar medium, quasars and active galaxies, clusters and superclusters, and cosmology. Prerequisite: Physics 228 or 231 or instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Cindy Blaha
ASTR 356 Special Project Individual projects in observational, theoretical, or computational astronomy. Available projects are often related to faculty research interests or to the development of course-support materials, such as new laboratory exercises. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission. 2-3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE; Fall, Winter, Spring; Cindy Blaha, Joel M Weisberg, Frank T McNally