PHYS 1050
The World of Atoms

MWF 11:00-11:50, Hoch Room, SL
 [Einstein]


L. J. Curtis

Distinguished University Professor
of Physics & Astronomy

A&S Master Teacher

Research Profile

For Fall 2009 the Dept. of Physics & Astronomy is again offering
a 3-credit honors course PHYS 1050, The World of Atoms, with
emphasis on 21st century perceptions of our physical universe.
The presentation will be conceptual and non-mathematical (no
prereqs) exploring the impact of today's paradigm on daily life.
(NEXT SCHEDULED OFFERING: FALL 2010)

Office: McMaster Hall 4027A
Tel: (419) 530-2341
FAX: (419) 530-2723
ljc@physics.utoledo.edu

* Philosophy of presentation           * Course Description          

  • Chapter 1 - Introduction   [Current Position]  
  • Chapter 2 - The 19th Century Paradigm
  • Chapter 3 - Overview of the New Paradigm
  • Chapter 4 - Spectroscopy and atomic structure
  • Chapter 5 - The classifications of the stars
  • Chapter 6 - The atomic nucleus
  • Chapter 7 - Elementary particles
  • Reference materials

    Term Paper











    Supplementary Topics:
  • Chapter 8 - Einstein's 1905 Annus Mirabilis
  • Chapter 9 - Electron waves
  • Chapter 10 -The statistics of electrons & photons
  • Chapter 11 -Molecules and condensed matter
  • Chapter 12 -Irreversible processes
  • Chapter 13 -Runaway growth and diminishing returns