BackPHYS 2212K: Principles of Physics II (Electricity & Magnetism) – Syllabus and Study Guide
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Course Overview
Introduction to PHYS 2212K
PHYS 2212K is an introductory, calculus-based physics course focused on electricity and magnetism, designed primarily for physical science majors. The course covers fundamental concepts, experimental methods, and problem-solving skills essential for STEM fields.
Instructor: Dr. Amin Bayat Barooni
Textbook: Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics, 5th Edition by Randall D. Knight
Prerequisites: PHYS 2211K, Math 2212 (Calculus II)
Class Location: Adholdt Learning Center GSU, Atlanta, GA
Course Topics
Electricity and Magnetism
This course covers the following main topics in electricity and magnetism:
Electrostatics: Study of electric charges at rest, electric fields, and potentials.
Electric Circuits: Analysis of current, voltage, resistance, and circuit components.
Magnetism: Magnetic fields, forces on moving charges, and electromagnetic induction.
Electromagnetic Waves: Properties and applications of electromagnetic radiation.
Additional info: The syllabus mentions coverage of all chapters relevant to electricity and magnetism, including laboratory experiments and computational assignments.
Learning Objectives
Skills and Competencies
Upon completion, students should be able to:
Use scientific methods to analyze data, mathematics, or technology to understand physical phenomena.
Apply analytical skills to solve physics problems.
Communicate scientific ideas effectively.
Work collaboratively in laboratory and group settings.
Demonstrate teamwork and responsibility.
Course Structure and Requirements
Assignments and Grading
The course includes a variety of assignments and assessments to evaluate student understanding and skills.
Activity | Percentage of Final Grade |
|---|---|
Homework (individual, one drop) | 15% |
Pre-Assignments questions (individual, drop two lowest grades) | 10% |
Laboratory Work (group) | 25% |
Classroom Activities and attendance (drop one lowest grade, group) | 15% |
Quizzes (individual, one drop) | 5% |
Tests | 20% |
Final Exam | 10% |
Grading Scale:
Letter Grade | Grade Percentage |
|---|---|
A+ | 97-100% |
A | 93-96.9% |
A- | 90-92.9% |
B+ | 87-89.9% |
B | 83-86.9% |
B- | 80-82.9% |
C+ | 77-79.9% |
C | 70-76.9% |
D | 60-69.9% |
F | 0-59.9% |
Course Policies
Attendance and Participation
Attendance is mandatory and part of the final grade. Participation in class activities, group work, and laboratory sessions is required. Students are expected to arrive on time and engage actively in all course components.
Homework and Pre-Assignments
Homework is assigned via Mastering Physics and is due weekly.
Pre-assignments are short tasks to be completed before each class to prepare for the material.
Quizzes and Exams
Quizzes are given regularly and are designed to test problem-solving skills.
Tests and the final exam are scheduled throughout the semester and include both written and computer-graded components.
Lowest quiz and test grades may be dropped according to policy.
Laboratory Work
Labs are conducted in groups and are essential for understanding experimental physics.
Lab attendance is required; missing labs may affect the final grade.
Lab schedules are provided for each section.
Student Support and Success Strategies
How to Succeed in PHYS 2212K
Work to understand the subject, not just memorize facts.
Attend all scheduled classes and participate actively.
Practice solving problems regularly and seek help when needed.
Form study groups and collaborate with peers.
Utilize free help sessions and office hours for additional support.
Academic Honesty
Students are expected to adhere to the university's policy on academic honesty. Collaboration is encouraged for learning, but all submitted work must be individual unless specified otherwise.
Additional Resources
Course website and online resources for assignments and grades.
Mastering Physics platform for homework and tests.
Free help sessions scheduled weekly.
Example Equations and Concepts
Key Equations in Electricity and Magnetism
Coulomb's Law:
Ohm's Law:
Faraday's Law of Induction:
Gauss's Law:
Additional info: These equations are central to the study of electricity and magnetism and will be covered in detail throughout the course.