College Physics: Course Overview, Topics, and Learning Outcomes

Course Overview

This course, based on "College Physics" by Randall Knight (4th edition), is an algebra-based introduction to fundamental concepts in physics. It is designed to fulfill the University of South Florida's Foundations of Knowledge and Learning (FKL) Core Curriculum requirements for Natural (Physical) Science. The course emphasizes scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and quantitative literacy, preparing students for further study and application in science and technology.

Topics to Cover in This Course

• Properties of Waves

• Wave Optics

• Images Formed by Refraction

• Interactions Between Charges and Electric Fields

• Simple and Advanced Circuits

• Interactions Between Moving Charges and Magnetic Fields

• Faraday’s Law of Induction

• The Electromagnetic Spectrum

• Properties of Electromagnetic Waves

• Elements of Modern Physics

Course Objectives

• Continue learning the scientific method and its application to scientific inquiry.

• Apply problem-solving skills to real physical problems in science and technology.

• Engage in collaborative discussions and activities.

Students Learning Outcomes

Module 1: Optics and Wave Phenomena

This module introduces the fundamental properties of waves and their behavior in various media.

• Wave Interference and Diffraction: Students will analyze interference and diffraction patterns both conceptually and analytically.

• Image Formation: Students will study how images are formed by refraction and reflection.

• Key Formula: $v = f \lambda$ (wave speed equation)

• Example: Calculating the position of bright and dark fringes in a double-slit experiment.

Module 2: Interactions Between a Test Charge and an Electric Field

This module covers the behavior of electric charges and their interactions with electric fields.

• Coulomb’s Law: Students will evaluate electric forces using $F = k_e \frac{q_1 q_2}{r^2}$.

• Electric Field Concept: Students will illustrate applications of charged particle interactions with electric fields.

• Example: Calculating the force between two point charges.

Module 3: Circuit Design and Concepts

This module introduces the basic and advanced concepts of electrical circuits.

• Ohm’s Law: $V = IR$

• Series and Parallel Circuits: Students will analyze circuits containing resistors, capacitors, and alternating current.

• Example: Determining the total resistance in a parallel circuit.

Module 4: The Magnetic Field

This module explores the properties and effects of magnetic fields on moving charges.

• Magnetic Force: $F = qvB \sin\theta$

• Applications: Centripetal force in circular motion of charged particles in magnetic fields.

• Example: Calculating the radius of a charged particle’s path in a uniform magnetic field.

Module 5: Electromagnetic Induction and Spectrum

This module covers Faraday’s Law, transformers, and the electromagnetic spectrum.

• Faraday’s Law: $\mathcal{E} = -\frac{d\Phi_B}{dt}$

• Electromagnetic Waves: Students will study the properties and applications of electromagnetic waves.

• Example: Explaining how a transformer changes voltage in an AC circuit.

Module 6: Modern Physics

This module introduces foundational concepts in modern physics, including relativity and quantum effects.

• Einstein’s Mass-Energy Equivalence: $E = mc^2$

• Photoelectric Effect: Students will study the emission of electrons from materials when exposed to light.

• Example: Calculating the energy of photons required to eject electrons from a metal surface.

Course Outline

• Online lectures and print notes

• Peer discussion and material review

• Quizzes and assignments

• Broader in-class activities and essays

• Recorded and optional team meetings

On-line Activities

• Lectures, quizzes, forums, and other files (including worked solutions to selected problems)

• Extra reading and video lectures for deeper understanding

Additional info: The course emphasizes both conceptual and analytical skills, collaborative learning, and the application of physics principles to real-world scenarios. Students are expected to participate in online modules, discussions, and assessments as part of their learning process.