Physics

This semester we continue to investigate the fundamental workings of nature by studying electricity, magnetism and optics. To understand these ideas, we will use the principles of energy and force that are already familiar to you. In addition, we’ll introduce the mathematical concept of a field and seek an atomic-level understanding of matter. We’ll explore all of these topics in terms of electric and magnetic phenomena. Consider all the things in our daily lives that rely on electricity, magnetism and optics: computers, cell phones, cameras, TV’s, DVD’s, wires, wireless networks, microwave ovens, light, rainbows, our eyes, our nerves, photosynthesis, and your ID card. It’s inspiring to realize that this wide range of things, and much more, can be understood in terms of a few basic principles that follow from an understanding of electricity, magnetism and optics.