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Physics at Hamilton |
Instructor |
Meetings |
Text |
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Gordon Jones |
Lecture |
Lab |
Modern Physics for Scientists and Engineers |
In addition to the course text you will need integral tables. You probably have common integrals in your old calculus book. The department recommends Schaum's Mathematical Handbook of Formulas and Tables in the Shaum's outlines series.
You should already have a copy of An Introduction to Error Analysis by John Taylor which will be used extensively in lab. If you do not already have copy you should oreder one and consult the instructor.
The New World of Mr. Tomkins is a popular science book that many students find a useful guide to visualising the class material.
Homework will be due in class on Friday most weeks. You are encouraged to
discuss questions with classmates, but what you write must be your own and
must reflect your own understanding. Please remember the honor code. Late
problem sets will be marked down 15% if they come in after I begin
class, and will not be accepted after I have given out the solutions (usually
the next class period). I will drop the lowest homework grade.
The process of problem solving is more important than getting the right answer.
Homework is not an exercise to get the right answer, it is a presentation,
convincing me that your answer is correct. Show your work in some logical
fashion and make notes at steps where the reasoning might not be clear. No
credit is given for mere correct answers. Underlining or highlighting key
steps and results can make your reasoning clearer. Always include units and
significant figures!
My office hours are posted on my door. Please try to come during these times. If necessary you can set up a time to see me, call ahead to see if I am in, or find me in my office or my lab.
Labs will meet in Science G036. Makeup labs will be provided only in very special cases. Grading will be through exit interviews, +/0/-. Lab books will be “graded” through homework and exam questions.
I will give occasional short lists of general knowledge facts. You will be responsible for remembering these on the exams.
Two exams will be given during the lab period as noted on the syllabus. The
date is subject to change. Material for the midterms and final will draw heavily
on the homework since that is the material that I find important. The final
will cover the whole course but will emphasize the material covered after
the last midterm.
You will be given an equation sheet before each exam. This will include equations
that you should know how to use, but which you will probably look up if you
need them in practice. The most basic equations will not be listed
since you should know them already.
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Physics at Hamilton |