Physics 2212 Principles of Physics II: Course Syllabus and Structure

Course Overview

Introduction

This syllabus outlines the structure, policies, and learning outcomes for Physics 2212 — Principles of Physics II at Middle Georgia State University. The course covers foundational topics in electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics, and is designed to build essential STEM competencies.

Course Structure

Topics Covered

• Electric Charge and Electric Field (Ch. 21)

• Gauss's Law (Ch. 22)

• Electric Potential (Ch. 23)

• Capacitance, Dielectrics, Electric Energy, Storage (Ch. 24)

• Electric Current and Resistance (Ch. 25)

• DC Circuits (Ch. 26)

• Magnetism (Ch. 27)

• Sources of Magnetic Field (Ch. 28)

• Electromagnetic Induction and Faraday's Law (Ch. 29)

• Inductance, Electromagnetic Oscillations, and AC Circuits (Ch. 30)

• Maxwell's Equations and Electromagnetic Waves (Ch. 31)

Additional info: The course may include selected topics from modern physics and optics, as indicated by the textbook and catalog description.

Textbook

• Physics for Scientists & Engineers with Modern Physics 4e by Giancoli

• Pearson Mastering Access (online homework platform)

Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

• Inquiry and Analysis: Develop scientific questions and use data, mathematics, and technology to understand physical phenomena.

• Problem-Solving: Apply mathematical and computational methods to analyze data and solve physics problems.

• Teamwork: Collaborate effectively in laboratory and project settings.

Specific Outcomes

• Use simplifying assumptions, approximations, and estimations in physics.

• Translate among graphic, analytic, and verbal representations of physical phenomena.

• Demonstrate sound problem-solving strategies using multiple representations.

• Apply Newton’s Laws and kinematics to model forces and motion.

• Apply conservation of energy and momentum to predict motion.

Assessment and Grading

Grading Breakdown

The following table summarizes the grading components for the course:

Item	Number	Points Each	Points Total
Concept Quiz	26	20	520
In class quiz	26	10	260
Homework	26	20	520
Extended Problems	2	100	200
Project	3	100	300
Exam	4	200	800
Final	1	400	400
Lab	-	-	1000
Total	-	-	4000

Grade thresholds:

• A: 3600+

• B: 3200+

• C: 2800+

• D: 2400+

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is mandatory and recorded.

• Participation is graded via prequizzes and in-class quizzes.

• Group work is encouraged, but all submitted work must be individual.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited, with a three-strike system.

• AI-generated work is not allowed for assignments.

Late Work and Missed Exams

• No make-ups for quizzes or in-class activities.

• Labs may be made up as schedule permits.

• No late penalty for homework, but grading standards may differ.

Weekly Schedule

Lecture Topics by Week

• Weeks 1-2: Electric Charge, Point Charges, Distributed Charges

• Weeks 3-4: Electric Field, Gauss’ Law

• Weeks 5-6: Electric Potential, Capacitors, Capacitor Energy

• Weeks 7-9: Electricity, Resistance, Power, DC Circuits, Kirchoff’s Laws, RC Circuits

• Weeks 10-12: Magnetic Field and Force, Magnetic Effects, Amperes Law, Biot-Savart Law

• Weeks 13-14: Induction, Induced Power, Inductors, AC Circuits, LRC Circuits

• Weeks 15-16: Maxwell’s Equations, Properties of EM Waves, Spectrum

Additional info: Exams are scheduled after major topic blocks, with a comprehensive final at the end of the semester.

Student Support and Accessibility

• Tutoring and academic workshops are available through the Student Success Center.

• ADA accommodations are provided via the Office of Accessibility Services.

Additional Policies

• Withdrawal, campus carry, delayed opening, and COVID-19 policies are outlined for student reference.

• All syllabus information is subject to change by the instructor.