Physics
Introduction
Why study physics? Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science. Physics encompasses the study of the universe, from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles. Physics challenges our imaginations and leads to great discoveries that change our lives. The computer that you are using and the laser that reads your DVDs were developed as a result of basic physics research. Are you curious about how the world works?
The Physics curriculum at LaGrange College serves two basic purposes:
- to provide an introduction to the physical sciences, oriented towards transforming critical thinking by developing skills in problem solving, analytical reasoning, and data collection and analysis suitable for the Core and Ethos requirements of the College;
- to provide courses that support programs in mathematics, chemistry, biology, engineering (dual-degree), education, and to prepare for health professional schools, including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and physical therapy.
Majors and Minors
Major Minor
Minor in PhysicsCourses
A non-calculus-based introduction to kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotational dynamics, fluid mechanics, wave mechanics, and thermodynamics. Physics is a science of measurement, testing, and experimentation—inquiry-based laboratories make physics come to life! Prerequisite: MATH 1221
A continuation of PHYS 1101 and an introduction to electricity and magnetism, electric circuits, and light and optics. Physics is a science of measurement, testing, and experimentation—inquiry-based laboratories make physics come to life!
A calculus-based introduction to dynamics, energy, momentum, rotational dynamics, fluid mechanics, wave mechanics, and thermodynamics. Physics is a science of measurement, testing, and experimentation—inquiry-based laboratories make physics come to life! Prerequisite: MATH 2222
A continuation of PHYS 2121, covering electricity and magnetism, electric circuits, and light and optics. Physics is a science of measurement, testing, and experimentation—inquiry-based laboratories make physics come to life!
During the early twentieth century, two momentous theories were proposed: the theory of relativity and quantum theory. This course introduces these theories and supporting experimental evidence, as well as many of the theories developed in the twentieth century. Topics to be studied include the birth of modern physics, special relativity, quantum theory, atomic physics, general relativity, and cosmology. An undergraduate research project explores the relativistic and quantum nature of matter and energy. Prerequisite: PHYS 2122 with a grade of C or higher. Co-requisite: MATH 2223
A study of basic principles of quantum mechanics, including the origins of quantum mechanics, the Schrodinger Equation, angular momentum, and solution approximation methods. CHEM 3302 may be substituted for this course. Prerequisites: MATH 2223, PHYS 3201