PHYS 1090 Fundamentals of the Physical Universe

This course is designed to apply fundamental physical science principles to real life situations. Concepts in chemistry and physics are used to study the nature of science and the relationships between science and society. Topics include the scientific method, motion, energy, light, matter, electricity and magnetism, waves, atomic and molecular structures and chemical reactions. Primarily for elementary education majors (who should also enroll in EDEL 1440 concurrently or the following semester), this course may be used as a laboratory science course for other non-science majors. This course cannot be used as LSCI credit toward any A.S. degree in Science or Math. Students earning credit in PHYS 1090 may not earn credit in CHEM 1090. (3 lect., 3 lab) LSCI

Credits

4 credits

Transfer Status

Equivalent to UW.

Major Topics

  • The Scientific Method
  • Motion and Energy
  • Thermal Physics
  • Electricity and Magnetism
  • Waves, Sound and Light
  • Atomic and Nuclear Structure
  • The Periodic Table
  • Basic Inorganic and Organic Chemistry

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Describe the fundamental principles of Physics and Chemistry.

2. Apply methods and appropriate technology to the study of Chemistry and Physics in an inquiry-based learning environment.

3. Communicate findings, analyses, and interpretation both orally and in writing based on scientific and quantitative methods and the differences between these approaches and other methods of inquiry.

4. Recognize differing approaches to thinking scientifically.

5. Discuss scientific issues and problems relevant to Chemistry and Physics.

6. Discuss the interdependence of science and technology and their influence on, and contribution to, modern culture.

7. Define the key terms of Physics and Chemistry.

8. Identify his/her currently held misconceptions about the fundamental principles of Physics and Chemistry and replace them with appropriate conceptual understanding.

9. Use computers, the internet, computer-interfaced and other physical science laboratory apparatus to investigate fundamental principles, solve problems and communicate results.

10. Communicate findings through written laboratory reports and homework, oral presentations and classroom discussion.

11. Demonstrate critical/creative thinking by solving problems involving the basic physical laws of Physics and Chemistry using algebraic, graphical and other quantitative methods.

12. Identify his/her currently held misconceptions about the fundamental principles of physical science and astronomy and replace them with appropriate conceptual understanding.

13. Analyze the impact of chemistry and physics on societal problems, history, and culture.

14. Discuss how gender, ethnicity and identity influence perspectives on chemistry and physics.