Physics 8: Course Outline

Spring Term, 2006

Website: http://physics.ucsd.edu/~tmurphy/phys8/phys8.html

Course Content

This course will focus on physics as it applies to everyday situations. Topics will include how much of our technology works (TV, radio, microwaves, cell phones, computers, GPS), why things look, sound, and feel the way they do, how we get our electricity and put it to use, the physics of heat, food, motion, and lots more. The treatment will be both qualitative and quantitative in nature. The course is designed to have many demonstrations and student participation.

Grading Scheme

25% on weekly homework
10% based on bi-weekly submission of questions/observations. Half credit if turned in late, no later than a week late
30% based on midterm exam
35% based on final exam
up to 15% based on classroom participation (taken out of midterm/final allotments)

Grades will be curved to fairly represent student capabilities

Required Textbook:

How Things Work: The Physics of Everyday Life, 3^rd edition, by Louis A. Bloomfield

Transmitter Required:

For class participation credit, purchase a transmitter from the bookstore or from another student. See the class web page: http://physics.ucsd.edu/~tmurphy/phys8/phys8.html for more details.

Class Meeting Times:

Lecture: Warren Lecture Hall (WLH) 2005, TTh 2:00–3:20 PM
Discussion: Center Hall 214, W 4:00–4:50 PM
Problem Session: CSB 002, W 7:00–7:50 PM

Contact Information:

Professor: Tom Murphy; tmurphy@physics.ucsd.edu; 858.534.1844; SERF Building, Room 336; Office hours: Thursday 11:00 AM–noon, or by appointment
TA: Matthew LeBourgeois; mlebourgeios@physics.ucsd.edu; Office hours: W 2:00–3:00 PM, Mayer Hall 2101

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