BackCollege Physics II (PHYS 2020/2021) – Syllabus and Study Guide
Study Guide - Smart Notes
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Course Overview
This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and schedule for College Physics II (PHYS 2020/2021), focusing on advanced topics in physics including optics, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics. The course uses College Physics by Serway & Vuille (11th edition) as the primary textbook.
Course Objectives
Develop a comprehensive understanding of key physics concepts from the following textbook chapters:
Chapter | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
15 | Static Charges, Electrical Fields, and Forces (§15.1–§15.5) |
16 | Electric Potential, Work, and Capacitance (All) |
17 | Current, Resistance, and Electrical Power (§17.1–§17.6) |
18 | Circuits (§18.1–§18.7) |
19 | Magnetic Forces and Fields (§19.1–§19.9) |
20 | Electrical Induction (All) |
21 | AC Voltage and Circuits (Brief Introduction + §21.12) |
22 | Basic Laws of Optics (§22.1–§22.5, §22.7) |
23 | Interaction of Light with Lenses and Mirrors (§23.1–§23.6) |
24 | Physical Optics (All) |
25 | Modern Physics: The Theory of Relativity (§25.2) |
26 | Modern Physics (All) |
27 | Modern Physics (All) |
28 | Modern Physics (§28.1–§28.6) |
29 | Modern Physics (§29.1–§29.7) |
30 | Modern Physics (§30.1–§30.2) |
Achieve proficiency in solving algebraic and conceptual physics problems.
Relate physics concepts to real-life applications and develop a deeper understanding of the physical universe.
Course Description
This course covers advanced topics in physics, including optics, electricity and magnetism, atomic structure, and nuclear physics. It is designed for students who have completed introductory physics and are seeking to expand their knowledge in these areas.
Suggested Study Procedure
Read assigned materials before class or lab sessions.
Attend all classes, take detailed notes, and participate actively.
Review materials and complete quick quiz assignments after class.
Begin homework assignments promptly to allow time for comprehension.
Ask questions during class or office hours for clarification.
Organize all course materials in a binder for easy reference.
Evaluation and Grading
Exams (65%): Five closed-book exams, each covering 2–3 chapters. Exams are 120 minutes each.
Lab Activities (20%): Hands-on and simulation-based labs, with group work, lab reports, and quizzes.
Homework Assignments (15%): Chapter-based assignments submitted via WebAssign.
Component | Percentage |
|---|---|
Exams | 65% |
Lab Activities | 20% |
Homework Assignments | 15% |
Total | 100% |
Letter Grade Scale:
Grade | Score Range |
|---|---|
A | 90.0 – 100 |
B | 80.0 – 89.9 |
C | 70.0 – 79.9 |
D | 60.0 – 69.9 |
F | 0 – 59.9 |
Course Policies
Academic Integrity: Students must adhere to the university’s code of conduct.
Attendance: Regular attendance is required; absences must be documented for make-up work.
Disability Services: Students with disabilities should contact the instructor or Disability Services for accommodations.
Minors Policy: Non-students under 18 are not permitted in the classroom.
Course Schedule (Selected Weeks)
Week | Lecture Topics | Lab Activities | Assignments Due |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | §15.1–§15.5 (Electric Fields & Forces) | HW Ch15 | |
2 | §16.1–§16.8 (Electric Potential & Capacitance) | Lab 1: Electric Field Mapping | Lab 1 Report & Quiz |
3 | Exam 1 (Chs. 15–16) | HW Ch16 | |
4 | §17.1–§17.6 (Current & Resistance) | HW Ch17 | |
5 | §18.1–§18.7 (Circuits) | Lab 2: Batteries & Bulbs | Lab 2 Report & Quiz |
6 | §19.1–§19.9 (Magnetic Forces & Fields) | Lab 4: Electric Motor Construction | Lab 4 Report & Quiz |
7 | §20.1–§20.7 (Induction) | Lab 5: Electromagnetic Induction | Lab 5 Report & Quiz |
9 | §22.1–§22.7 (Optics) | Lab 6: Reflection & Refraction | Lab 6 Report & Quiz |
10 | §23.1–§23.6 (Lenses & Mirrors) | Lab 7: Focal Points & Lengths | Lab 7 Report & Quiz |
12 | §24.1–§24.9 (Physical Optics) | Lab 8: Diffraction & Interference | Lab 8 Report & Quiz |
14 | §28.1–§28.6 (Modern Physics) | HW Ch28 | |
15 | §29.1–§29.7 (Modern Physics) | Lab 9: Spectrometer & Spectra | Lab 9 Report & Quiz |
Additional info: The schedule includes five major exams, regular homework, and laboratory assignments. The course content aligns with standard college-level physics topics as outlined in the provided chapter list.
Textbook Information
Title: College Physics (11th Edition)
Authors: Serway & Vuille
Publisher: Brooks/Cole
ISBN-13: 9781305965522
ISBN-10: 1305965523
Publication Date: 1/1/2017
Pages: 512
