PCS 130 – Physics II: Course Outline and Syllabus Study Notes

PCS 130 – Physics II: Course Outline and Syllabus

Course Overview

PCS 130 – Physics II is a calculus-based continuation of Physics I, designed for science and engineering students. The course covers foundational topics in electricity, magnetism, waves, optics, and nuclear physics, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving, laboratory skills, and scientific communication.

Course Structure and Logistics

• Lectures: 3 hours per week (in-person)

• Laboratories: 2 hours every second week (mandatory, alternating with tutorials)

• Tutorials: 2 hours every second week (mandatory, alternating with labs)

• Online Homework: Bi-weekly assignments via Mastering Physics

• Textbook: Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach by Knight

Course Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge in oscillations and waves, optics, magnetism, and nuclear physics.

• Apply scientific inquiry, analytical, and critical thinking skills to solve physics problems and conduct experiments.

• Communicate scientific concepts and data analysis clearly in oral and written forms.

• Exhibit autonomy, professional integrity, time management, and interpersonal skills.

Grading Scheme

Component	Weight
Tutorial Activities	10%
Mastering Physics Homework	10%
Labs and Pre-lab Questions	20%
Midterm Exam	20%
Final Exam	40%

Passing Requirements: Minimum 50% overall, with at least 50% in labs and 50% in theory (tutorials, homework, exams).

Major Topics and Tentative Schedule

Topic	Subtopics (Knight Chapters)	Hours
Electrostatics	Electric charge, conservation, insulators/conductors, Coulomb’s law, electric field, electric potential energy, electric potential (Ch. 22, 23, 25)	5.5
Current and Resistance	Electron current, resistance, Ohm’s law (Ch. 27)	2
Circuits	Circuit elements, diagrams, Kirchhoff’s laws, power, series/parallel resistors (Ch. 28)	2.5
Magnetic Field	Magnetism, moving charges, magnetic dipoles, solenoids, forces on charges/wires (Ch. 29)	6
Traveling Waves	Wave introduction, 1D waves, sinusoidal waves, sound/light, power/intensity, Doppler effect (Ch. 16)	4
Superposition of Waves	Superposition, standing waves, interference, beats (Ch. 17)	4
Wave Optics	Light, interference, diffraction grating, single slit diffraction (Ch. 33)	4
Ray Optics	Ray model, reflection, refraction (Ch. 34)	2
Nuclear Physics	Nuclear structure, stability, strong force, radiation, decay, biological applications (Ch. 42)	2

Laboratory and Tutorial Policies

• Labs: Five mandatory experiments; pre-lab questions and data upload required. Academic integrity strictly enforced.

• Tutorials: Five mandatory sessions; group and individual problem-solving, with marked quizzes.

• Missed Labs: Require Academic Consideration Request and prompt communication with staff for makeup arrangements.

Exam Guidelines

• Closed book, multiple-choice format for midterm and final exams.

• Formula sheet provided; only approved calculators allowed (Sharp EL-546, Casio FX-991).

• Academic integrity strictly enforced; unauthorized aids are prohibited.

Academic Integrity and Policies

• Strict adherence to university academic integrity policies (Policy 60).

• Plagiarism detection software (Turnitin) may be used for lab reports.

• Unauthorized use of generative AI tools is prohibited and considered academic misconduct.

Support and Resources

• Academic Accommodation Support for students with disabilities.

• Student Learning Support for writing, math, and study skills.

• Mental health and well-being resources available through the university.

Course Communication

• Official communication via TMU email and D2L course site.

• Students are responsible for checking announcements and emails regularly.

Diversity and Inclusion

The course aims to foster a supportive environment that values diversity of thought, identity, and experience. Equity, diversity, and inclusion resources are available to all students.

Course Calendar and Detailed Content

The course follows a structured calendar, with each major topic mapped to specific chapters in the textbook. Students are expected to prepare for labs and tutorials by reviewing relevant textbook sections and completing pre-lab/tutorial assignments.

Note: For detailed weekly schedules, lab instructions, and tutorial information, refer to the D2L course shell.