printer friendly pagePHYSICS 11N: Lasers, Lasers, Nothing but Lasers
Lasers are nearly everywhere. Lasers are in your phone, in clocks, security scanners, automobiles, hospital operating rooms, satellites, airplanes, undersea cables, dance floors and bars, and the entire internet. And that's not to mention newer stuff, like virtual reality hardware or quantum computers or gravity wave detectors or attosecond x-rays (whatever they are). Without lasers, a lot of things we take for granted now and a lot of things we imagine for our future simply couldn't work at all. But how much do you really know about them? What are they? How do they work? You're at Stanford now, so let's find out. That¿s what this IntroSem is about. By the end of the class, you will not only know what a laser is, and how it works, but you will build one that you can keep.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
Instructors:
Bucksbaum, P. (PI)
PHYSICS 13N: A Taste of Quantum Physics (APPPHYS 13N)
What is quantum physics and what makes it so weird? We'll introduce key aspects of quantum physics with an aim to explain why it differs from everyday 'classical' physics. Quantum-enabled devices like the laser and atomic clocks for GPS will be explained. We will also discuss the breakthroughs driving the 2nd quantum technology revolution surrounding quantum simulators, sensors, and computers. Seminar discussions and a laser lab will help illustrate core principles, including the atomic clock mechanism. Visits to campus laboratories will introduce cutting-edge quantum experiments. This IntroSem is designed for those likely to go on to major in the humanities or in a STEM program outside of the natural sciences. (Likely STEM majors are instead encouraged to take 100-level quantum courses upon completion of pre-requirements.) While basic familiarity with high school physics is recommended, qualitative explanations will be emphasized. By the end of the quarter, you will be able to explain the key tenets of quantum physics, how it has enabled current technology, and what new technologies might emerge from the 2nd quantum revolution.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Lev, B. (PI)
PHYSICS 15: Stars and Planets in a Habitable Universe
How do stars form from the gas in galaxies? How do stars and galaxies evolve, and how can these processes give rise to planets and the conditions suitable for life? How do we, from our little corner of the cosmos, collect and decipher information about the Universe? This course covers the solar system and celestial motions, the life cycle of stars, the structure of our Milky Way galaxy, and the discovery of exoplanets: planets orbiting stars beyond our Sun. Intended to be accessible to non-science majors, the material is explored quantitatively with problem sets using basic algebra and numerical estimates. Sky observing and observatory field trips supplement the coursework.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Clark, S. (PI)
PHYSICS 21: Mechanics and Fluids
How are the motions of solids and liquids determined by the laws of physics? Students learn to describe the motion of objects (kinematics) and understand why objects move as they do (dynamics). Emphasis on applying Newton's laws to solids and liquids to describe diverse phenomena. Everyday examples are analyzed using tools of algebra and trigonometry. Problem-solving skills are developed, including verifying that derived results satisfy criteria for correctness, such as dimensional consistency and expected behavior in limiting cases. Physical understanding fostered by peer interaction and interactive group problem solving. Prerequisite: high school algebra and trigonometry; calculus not required.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Michelson, P. (PI)
PHYSICS 22: Mechanics, Fluids, and Heat Laboratory
Guided hands-on exploration of concepts in classical mechanics, fluids, and thermodynamics with an emphasis on student predictions, observations and explanations. Pre- or corequisite:
PHYSICS 21.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 1
Instructors:
Devin, J. (PI)
PHYSICS 41: Mechanics
How are motions of objects in the physical world determined by the laws of physics? Students learn to describe the motion of objects (kinematics) and then understand why motions have the form they do (dynamics). Emphasis on how the important physical principles in mechanics, such as conservation of momentum and energy for translational and rotational motion, follow from just three laws of nature: Newton's laws of motion. The distinction made between fundamental laws of nature and empirical rules that are useful approximations for more complex physics. Problems are drawn from examples of mechanics in everyday life. Skills developed in verifying that derived results satisfy criteria for correctness, such as dimensional consistency and expected behavior in limiting cases. Discussions based on the language of mathematics, particularly vector representations and operations, and calculus. Physical understanding is fostered by peer interaction and demonstrations in lecture, and discussion sec
more »
How are motions of objects in the physical world determined by the laws of physics? Students learn to describe the motion of objects (kinematics) and then understand why motions have the form they do (dynamics). Emphasis on how the important physical principles in mechanics, such as conservation of momentum and energy for translational and rotational motion, follow from just three laws of nature: Newton's laws of motion. The distinction made between fundamental laws of nature and empirical rules that are useful approximations for more complex physics. Problems are drawn from examples of mechanics in everyday life. Skills developed in verifying that derived results satisfy criteria for correctness, such as dimensional consistency and expected behavior in limiting cases. Discussions based on the language of mathematics, particularly vector representations and operations, and calculus. Physical understanding is fostered by peer interaction and demonstrations in lecture, and discussion sections based on interactive group problem-solving. Please enroll in a section that you can attend regularly. In order to register for this class students who have never taken an introductory Physics course at Stanford must complete the Physics Placement Diagnostic at
https://physics.stanford.edu/academics/undergraduate-students/placement-diagnostic. Students who complete the Physics Placement Diagnostic by 3 PM (Pacific) on Friday will have their hold lifted over the weekend. Prerequisites: Physics placement diagnostic AND
Math 20 or higherCorequisites: Completion of OR co-enrollment of
Math 21 or higher. Since high school math classes vary widely, it is recommended that you take at least one math class at Stanford before or concurrently with
Physics 41. In addition, it is recommended that you take
Math 51 or
CME 100 before taking the next course in the
Physics 40 series,
Physics 43.
Terms: Aut, Win
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Blakemore, C. (PI)
;
Tompkins, L. (PI)
PHYSICS 41E: Mechanics, Concepts, Calculations, and Context
Physics 41E (
Physics 41 Extended) is a 5-unit version of
Physics 41 (4 units) for students with little or no high school physics. Course topics and mathematical complexity are similar, but not identical to
Physics 41. There is an additional class meeting every week, and attendance at all class sessions is mandatory. The extra classroom time and corresponding extra study time outside of class allows students to engage with concepts and become fluent in mathematical tools that include vector representations and operations, and relevant calculus. There is a strong emphasis on developing problem-solving skills, particularly as applied to real world examples, to leave students prepared for subsequent engineering, physics, or related courses they may take. The course will explore important physical principles in mechanics including: using Newton's Laws and torque to analyze static structures and forces; understanding the equations of kinematics; and utilizing energy in its many forms and
more »
Physics 41E (
Physics 41 Extended) is a 5-unit version of
Physics 41 (4 units) for students with little or no high school physics. Course topics and mathematical complexity are similar, but not identical to
Physics 41. There is an additional class meeting every week, and attendance at all class sessions is mandatory. The extra classroom time and corresponding extra study time outside of class allows students to engage with concepts and become fluent in mathematical tools that include vector representations and operations, and relevant calculus. There is a strong emphasis on developing problem-solving skills, particularly as applied to real world examples, to leave students prepared for subsequent engineering, physics, or related courses they may take. The course will explore important physical principles in mechanics including: using Newton's Laws and torque to analyze static structures and forces; understanding the equations of kinematics; and utilizing energy in its many forms and applications. Prerequisites: Physics placement diagnostic AND
Math 19 or higher Corequisites: Completion of OR co-enrollment of
Math 20 or higher. Since high school math classes vary widely, it is recommended that you take at least one math class at Stanford before or concurrently with
Physics 41E. In addition, it is required that you take
Math 21 before taking the next course in the
Physics 40 series,
Physics 43.Priority will be given to students who have had little physics background.
Terms: Aut, Win
| Units: 5
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Bergeron, P. (PI)
;
Blakemore, C. (PI)
;
Church, S. (PI)
...
more instructors for PHYSICS 41E »
Instructors:
Bergeron, P. (PI)
;
Blakemore, C. (PI)
;
Church, S. (PI)
;
Nee, M. (TA)
;
Xiang, C. (TA)
;
Zenagui, A. (TA)
PHYSICS 42: Classical Mechanics Laboratory
Hands-on exploration of concepts in classical mechanics: Newton's laws, conservation laws, rotational motion. Introduction to laboratory techniques, experimental equipment and data analysis. Pre- or corequisite:
PHYSICS 41.
Terms: Aut, Win
| Units: 1
Instructors:
Devin, J. (PI)
PHYSICS 45: Light and Heat
What is temperature? How do the elementary processes of mechanics, which are intrinsically reversible, result in phenomena that are clearly irreversible when applied to a very large number of particles, the ultimate example being life? In thermodynamics, students discover that the approach of classical mechanics is not sufficient to deal with the extremely large number of particles present in a macroscopic amount of gas. The paradigm of thermodynamics leads to a deeper understanding of real-world phenomena such as energy conversion and the performance limits of thermal engines. In optics, students see how a geometrical approach allows the design of optical systems based on reflection and refraction, while the wave nature of light leads to interference phenomena. The two approaches come together in understanding the diffraction limit of microscopes and telescopes. Discussions based on the language of mathematics, particularly calculus. Physical understanding fostered by peer interaction
more »
What is temperature? How do the elementary processes of mechanics, which are intrinsically reversible, result in phenomena that are clearly irreversible when applied to a very large number of particles, the ultimate example being life? In thermodynamics, students discover that the approach of classical mechanics is not sufficient to deal with the extremely large number of particles present in a macroscopic amount of gas. The paradigm of thermodynamics leads to a deeper understanding of real-world phenomena such as energy conversion and the performance limits of thermal engines. In optics, students see how a geometrical approach allows the design of optical systems based on reflection and refraction, while the wave nature of light leads to interference phenomena. The two approaches come together in understanding the diffraction limit of microscopes and telescopes. Discussions based on the language of mathematics, particularly calculus. Physical understanding fostered by peer interaction and demonstrations in lecture, and discussion sections based on interactive group problem solving. In order to register for this class students must EITHER have already taken an introductory Physics class (20, 40, or 60 sequence) or have taken the Physics Placement Diagnostic at
https://physics.stanford.edu/academics/undergraduate-students/placement-diagnostic. Recommended prerequisite:
PHYSICS 41 or equivalent.
MATH 21 or
MATH 51 or
CME 100 or equivalent.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
Instructors:
Bergeron, P. (PI)
PHYSICS 46: Light and Heat Laboratory
Hands-on exploration of concepts in geometrical optics, wave optics and thermodynamics. Pre- or corequisite:
PHYSICS 45.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 1
Instructors:
Devin, J. (PI)
Filter Results: