Physics 185 - How Things Work

This course is designed to investigate the physics of everyday phenomena. In the process of learning "How Things Work" students will study a variety of topics in physics including mechanics, electricity & magnetism, acoustics, nuclear physics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics to name a few. These principles will be used to gain a better understanding of the operation of a broad range of natural phenomena, machines, and other devices. A working knowledge of algebra is expected. Prerequisite: none. Offered: Fall semester.

Textbook:    The Physics of Everyday Phenomena by W. Thomas Griffith
Room:    Gilmer 005
Instructor:    Dr. Cheyne
Time:    10:30 - 11:20 (C Period)
Office:    Gilmer 011
Extension:    6178
email:    stanc@hsc.edu
Office hours:    T, W, Th ( 2:00 - 4:00 )
HSC Web site:    http://ceres.hsc.edu/homepages/stanc/classes/Physics185.html

The How Things Work Web Site (UVA) can by used as a refence for this course. I encourage you to visit it and read the list of questions and answers. Try to answer the questions before reading the solutions. It has other information that may also be of use.

Grading Scheme:

Attendance Policy:   You are expected to attend all classes. According to the Key, Freshmen are not allowed to miss more than 3 class periods. You will receive warning letters if you miss 3 classes and will be dropped from the class if you miss more than 3.

Project:  You will be required to do one project during the semester. It will consist of a thorough investigation of a topic, a written report (with references) in the form of a scientific paper completely analyzing the physics of the problem. Berkeley Lecture Demonstrations has some great ideas that may be of use for your projects. The topic will be selected during the second week of the course. All work is to be your own. This class will adhere strictly to the College's Honor Code.

Homework:  The homework will consist of quantitative and qualitative problems. All out-of-class work is to be turned in on the due date at the beginning of class. Any late work will have a 10%/day penalty (weekends included, i.e., if an assignment is due on Friday and turned in on Monday it will be considered 3 days late). Again, all work is to be your own. You may discuss problems with classmates but you may not copy another's work or refer to any previously solved problem. Any infraction of this rule will be considered an Honor Code violation. It is advisable to save your questions for me. There will be Physics tutors available between the hours of 8 -10 pm in Gilmer 005 (Sunday-Thursday)

Exams:  There will be three exams and a comprehensive final. You may only make up an exam if 1) you have an excused absence and you inform me ahead of time (at least 1 day), or 2) you have an emergency. If you miss an exam for any other reason, then you will receive a zero.