AS.171-173 (Physics & Astronomy)

First semester of a two-semester sequence in calculus-based general physics. In this term, the topics covered include the basic principles of classical mechanics and fluids as well as an introduction to wave motion. Midterm exams for every section are given during the 8 AM section time! Accordingly, students registering for sections at times other than 8 AM must retain availability for 8 AM sections as needed. Recommended Co-requisite: AS.110.108 or AS.110.113 AND AS.173.111

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Second semester of two-semester sequence in calculus-based general physics. In this term, the topics covered include wave motion, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Recommended Corequisites: (AS.173.112) AND Calculus (AS.110.107 or AS.110.109 or AS.110.113).

Prerequisite(s): Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in either Physics I or the first semester of Engineering Mechanics AS.171.101 OR AS.171.103 OR AS.171.105 OR AS.171.107 OR EN.530.123

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

First-semester of two-semester sequence in calculus-based general physics, tailored to students majoring in one of the biological sciences. In this term, the topics covered include the basic principles of classical mechanics and fluids as well as an introduction to wave motion. Recommended Corequisites: (AS.173.111) AND (AS.110.106 or AS.110.108 or AS.110.113).Midterm exams are given at 8am Tuesdays, so students must leave their schedules open at this time in order to be able to take these exams

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Second semester of a two-semester sequence designed to present a standard calculus-based physics preparation tailored to students majoring in one of the biological sciences. Topics in electricity & magnetism, optics, and modern physics will be covered in this semester. Midterm exams for every section are given during the 8 AM section time!Accordingly, students registering for sections at times other than 8 AM must retain availability for 8 AM sections as needed. Recommended Course Background: C- or better in AS.171.101 or AS.171.103 or AS.171.105 or AS.171.107 or EN.530.123; Corequisites: AS.110.109, AS173.112.

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

An in-depth introduction to classical mechanics intended for physics majors/minors and other students with a strong interest in physics. This course treats fewer topics than AS.171.101 and AS.171.103 but with greater mathematical sophistication. It is particularly recommended for students who intend to take AS.171.201 or AS.171.310. Recommended Co-requisites: AS.173.115 and AS.110.108

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Classical electricity and magnetism with fewer topics than 171.102-104, but with greater mathematical sophistication. Particularly recommended for students who plan to take AS.171.201-AS.171.204. Recommended Course Background: C- or better in AS.171.105; Corequisite: AS.173.116, AS.110.109

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This two-semester sequence in calculus-based general physics is identical in subject matter to AS.171.101-AS.171.102, covering mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics, but differs in instructional format. Rather than being presented via lectures and discussion sections, it is instead taught in an "active learning" style with most class time given to small group problem-solving guided by instructors. Midterm exams for every section are given during the 8 AM section time! Accordingly, students registering for sections at times other than 8 AM must retain availability for 8 AM sections as needed. Recommended Corequisites: (AS.173.111) AND (AS.110.106 or AS.110.108 or AS.110.113)

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Second semester of a two-semester sequence in calculus-based general physics identical in subject matter to AS.171.101-AS.171.102, covering mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics, but differs in instructional format. Rather than being presented via lectures and discussion sections, it is instead taught in an "active learning" style with most class time given to small group problem-solving guided by instructors. Recommended Course Background: A grade of C- or better in either Physics I or the first semester of Engineering Mechanics (AS.171.101 OR AS.171.103 OR AS.171.105 OR AS.171.107 OR EN.530.123)

Prerequisite(s): Can be taken concurrently or as a prerequisite: (AS.110.107 OR AS.110.109 OR AS.110.211 OR AS.110.113)

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Introduction to the concepts of physics of the subatomic world: symmetries, relativity, quanta, neutrinos, particles and fields. The course traces the history of our description of the physical world from the Greeks through Faraday and Maxwell to quantum mechanics in the early 20th century and on through nuclear physics and particle physics. The emphasis is on the ideas of modern physics, not on the mathematics. Intended for non-science majors.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

We all know that the energy we use on a daily basis can come from a variety of sources, but a discussion of the merits and drawbacks to those sources more often leads to political argument than fact-based scientific dialogue. This course, meant for science and non-science students alike, explores the principles behind how energy from fossil fuels, solar, wind, nuclear, and other resources is produced, how efficiently the energy can be harnessed, and what effect the process has and will have on our environment and society today and in the future. Students will apply this fundamental understanding to compare and understand how each source could be used in real world scenarios. Ultimately, the course is intended to help students use a scientific perspective to shape their opinions when faced with these controversial topics.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

This course offers a broad overview of the fundamental ideas of modern physics: mechanics, space, time, relativity, quantum mechanics, and quantum field theory, up to general relativity and the Standard Model of particle physics. The course will be descriptive but equation-based, including explicit details about the foundational equations of the theories discussed. The goal will be to understand the meaning of those equations and the concepts they represent, rather than to gain facility in manipulating and solving the equations. This course is aimed at non-physics majors

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This course looks at the evolution of the universe from its origin in a cosmic explosion to emergence of life on Earth and possibly other planets throughout the universe. Topics include big-bang cosmology; origin and evolution of galaxies, stars, planets, life, and intelligence; black holes; quasars; and relativity theory. The material is largely descriptive, based on insights from physics, astronomy, geology, chemistry, biology, and anthropology.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Through a mix of lectures and hands-on activities, you will learn how astronomers study objects in space using different types of light, observatories, and instrumental techniques. You will also hear from active researchers about the big, open questions in astronomy and how we use space telescopes such as Hubble and Webb to answer those questions. Building on this knowledge, you will work with a small group to design your own space telescope and present that design to your peers. No prior knowledge of astronomy, physics, or mathematics is assumed.

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Course continues introductory physics sequence (begins with AS.171.105-AS.171.106). Special theory of relativity, forced and damped oscillators, Fourier analysis, wave equation, reflection and transmission, diffraction and interference, dispersion. Meets with AS.171.207.

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Course completes four-semester introductory sequence that includes AS.171.105-AS.171.106 and AS.171.201. Planck’s hypothesis, de Broglie waves, Bohr atom, Schrodinger equation in one dimension, hydrogen atom, Pauli exclusion principle, conductors and semiconductors, nuclear physics, particle physics.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Principles of Newtonian and Lagrangian mechanics; application to central-force motion, rigid body motion, and the theory of small oscillations. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.108 and AS.110.109, AS.110.202, AS.171.201, or AS.171.309. AS.110.201 or equivalent is strongly recommended.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

The class will provide an overview of data science, with an introduction to basic statistical principles, databases, fundamentals of algorithms and data structures, followed by practical problems in data analytics. Recommend Course Background: Familiarity with principles of computing.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences, Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Static electric and magnetic fields in free space and matter; boundary value problems; electromagnetic induction; Maxwell’s equations; and an introduction to electrodynamics.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics. Uncertainty relations, Schrodinger equation in one and three dimensions, tunneling, harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, hydrogen atom, spin, Pauli principle, perturbation theory (time-independent and time-dependent), transition probabilities and selection rules, atomic structure, scattering theory. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.302 or AS.110.306.

Prerequisite(s): (AS.171.204 ) AND ( AS.110.201 OR AS.110.212 ) AND ( AS.110.202 OR AS.110.211 )

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics. Uncertainty relations, Schrodinger equation in one and three dimensions, tunneling, harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, hydrogen atom, spin, Pauli principle, perturbation theory, transition probabilities and selection rules, atomic structure, scattering theory. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.303, AS.171.202, AS.171.204, AS.110.202.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Introduces topics of classical statistical mechanics. Additional topics include low-Reynolds number hydrodynamics and E&M of ionic solutions, via biologically relevant examples.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Undergraduate course that develops the laws and general theorems of thermodynamics from a statistical framework.

Prerequisite(s): Calculus II ( AS.110.107 or AS.110.109 or AS.110.113 ). Linear Algebra (AS.110.201 or AS.110.212) and Calculus III (AS.110.202 or AS.110.211)

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Survey of stellar astrophysics. Topics include stellar atmospheres, stellar interiors, nucleosynthesis, stellar evolution, supernovae, white dwarfs, neutron stars, pulsars, black holes, binary stars, accretion disks, protostars, and extrasolar planetary systems. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.108-AS.110.109, AS.171.202

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This course will introduce student to the physics of galaxies and their constituents: stars, gas, dust, dark matter and a supermassive black hole in the central regions.Recommended Course Background: AS.110.108-AS.110.109, AS.171.202

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Topics include space astronomy, remote observing of the earth, space physics, planetary exploration, human space flight, space environment, orbits, propulsion, spacecraft design, attitude control and communication. Crosslisted by Departments of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Materials Science and Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.101-AS.171.102 or similar; AS.110.108-AS.110.109.

Distribution Area: Engineering, Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1), Science and Data (FA2), Projects and Methods (FA6)

We live in a data-rich world where the flux of information increases exponentially. We will learn how to think statistically and see patterns and structure in many systems around us: news reports, images, cities, social networks, etc. We will learn how to use this knowledge to analyze data, make decisions and predictions. We will explore correlations, patterns, entropy, fractals. This course will allow students to better understand the complex world we live in. The course will occasionally involve some coding. Junior, senior and graduate students only. More at https://bit.ly/3iJ90ps

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This course will provide a basic introduction to quantum computing and quantum algorithms. It will cover celebrated quantum algorithms that are of interest in the long term in addition to having a particular focus on near-term quantum algorithms for specific applications (e.g., material simulation and approximate optimization) that can be readily studied on currently available hardware. Lastly, we will discuss critical techniques for managing noise in quantum systems (e.g., quantum error correction). Course attendees will also receive hands-on experience in near-term quantum algorithm implementation on the IBM Quantum Experience (IBM QE), a publicly available quantum computing platform.Recommended Background : Calculus, Python (Basic), Linear Algebra, Basic Quantum Mechanics

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Undergraduate course covering basic concepts of condensed matter physics: crystal structure, diffraction and reciprocal lattices, electronic and optical properties, band structure, phonons, superconductivity and magnetism. Co-listed with AS.171.621Recommended Course Background: AS.171.304, AS.110.201-AS.110.202.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Classical physics approaches to condensed matter. Topics include broken symmetries, phase transitions, elasticity, topological defects, and (as time permits) dynamics, as applied to systems including crystals, liquid crystals, ferromagnets, superfluids, and superconductors.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Basic properties of nuclei, masses, spins, parity. Nuclear scattering, interaction with electromagnetic radiation, radioactivity, Pions, muons, and elementary particles, including resonances. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.303

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This course provides an overview of modern physical cosmology. Topics covered include: the contents, shape, and history of the universe; the big bang theory; dark matter; dark energy; the cosmic microwave background; Hubble's law; the Friedmann equation; and inflation. Recommended Course Background: (AS.171.101-AS.171.102), or (AS.171.103-AS.171.104), or (AS.171.105-AS.171.106), or (AS.171.107-AS.171.108), or equivalent.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Topics in applied mathematics used by physicists, covering numerical methods: linear problems, numerical integration, pseudo-random numbers, finding roots of nonlinear equations, function minimization, eigenvalue problems, fast Fourier transforms, solution of both ordinary and partial differential equations.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences, Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Course is intended to give broad perspective on many aspects of modern physics: Astrophysics, Condensed Matter Physics, Particle Physics, Biological Physics.

Prerequisite(s): AS.171.303 AND AS.171.301 AND AS.171.312

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Introduction to finite and Lie groups, representations and applications to quantum mechanics, condensed matter physics, and other fields of physics; selected topics from differential geometry and algebraic topology.Recommended Prerequisite: AS.171.304

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Quantum Field Theory marries the principles of special relativity with quantum mechanics and provides a remarkably consistent description of a wide variety of phenomena, ranging from the theory of elementary particles to processes in condensed matter physics. It is an essential element in the toolkit of every physicist. In this course, we provide an introduction to this vast topic and aim to provide an intuitive understanding of this field. We will start by learning how to think about quantum mechanics in a manner consistent with special relativity (the Klein Gordon and Dirac equations), learn how to estimate relativistic quantum processes (Feynman diagrams), analyze nonsensical infinities that arise in these theories (Renormalization) and conclude with an overview of the Standard Model of Particle Physics (QCD and Electroweak theory). The course is aimed at introducing the student to how physicists think about these issues and it is a stepping stone to graduate study in this topic.

Prerequisite(s): AS.171.304

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

The two-state quantum system; atomic structure; atoms in electric and magnetic fields; single-photon transitions; two-photon transitions and coherence. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.303, AS.171.304.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

This course is for both graduate students and undergraduate students. There is no prerequisite although reading for introductory texts will be supplied where useful. Postdocs are also welcome to attend. Topics that will be discussed include: 1.Gravitational Wave Astronomy (related to cosmic plasmas),2. Ultra-High Energy Cosmic Rays,3. Black Hole Electrodynamics, 4.the Intergalactic, Interstellar and Intra-Cluster Medium, 5.Pulsars, 6.Magnetars, 7.Stellar and Galactic Dynamos,8.Solar Flares and CMEs, 9.Gamma Ray Bursts, 10.Supernovae and their Remnants, 11. Radio Sources and Jets and, 12. the universal cosmic plasma from earliest times13.Finally the detailed dusty plasmas around protostellar and protoplanetary disks including debris components of comets, asteroids planetesimals and interstellar intruders. We will spend roughly one week on each topic. In class, we will combine the lectures with reading interesting new papers from the current literature and it is expected that students will be sufficiently fluent in this field by the end of the semester to critically discuss and analyze such papers as experts.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Students may register for independent research with a faculty member in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. A research plan should be sent to the Director of Undergraduate Study before the add/drop date that includes project details, the number of hours of effort each week and the number of credits. This course may not be used for one of the two electives required for a BA, but one semester of research may be used as one of four focused electives in a BS program.

Prerequisite(s): You must request Independent Academic Work using the Independent Academic Work form found in Student Self-Service: Registration, Online Forms.

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2), Projects and Methods (FA6)

Research done in senior year in conjunction with experimental equipment of intermediate laboratory or as special project in research group. Credit for independent study given to junior and senior students who act as tutors.

Prerequisite(s): You must request Independent Academic Work using the Independent Academic Work form found in Student Self-Service: Registration, Online Forms.

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2), Projects and Methods (FA6)

Prerequisite(s): You must request Independent Academic Work using the Independent Academic Work form found in Student Self-Service: Registration, Online Forms.

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2), Projects and Methods (FA6)

Classical field theory, relativistic dynamics, Maxwell's equations with static and dynamic applications, boundary-value problems, radiation and propagation of electromagnetic waves, advanced topics in electrodynamics in media and plasmas

Review of wave mechanics and the Schrodinger equation, Hilbert space, harmonic oscillator, the WKB approximation, central forces and angular momentum, scattering, electron spin, density matrix, perturbation theory (time-independent and time-dependent), quantized radiation field, absorption and emission of radiation, identical particles, second quantization, Dirac equation.

Review of wave mechanics and the Schrodinger equation, Hilbert space, harmonic oscillator, the WKB approximation, central forces and angular momentum, scattering, electron spin, density matrix, perturbation theory (time -independent and time - dependent), quantized radiation field, absorption and emission of radiation, identical particles, second quantization, Dirac equation. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.303 and AS.171.304

Topics in applied mathematics used by physicists, covering numerical methods: linear problems, numerical integration, pseudo-random numbers, finding roots of nonlinear equations, function minimization, eigenvalue problems, fast Fourier transforms, solution of both ordinary and partial differential equations. Undergraduate students may register online for this course and will be assigned 3 credits during the add/drop period.

Basic physics of stellar structure and evolution will be discussed with emphasis on current research.

A one-term survey of the processes that generate radiation of astrophysical importance. Topics include radiative transfer, the theory of radiation fields, polarization and Stokes parameters, radiation from accelerating charges, bremsstrahlung, synchrotron radiation, thermal dust emission, Compton scattering, properties of plasmas, atomic and molecular quantum transitions, and applications to astrophysical observations.

How do we observe the Universe at each wavelength and what do we see? This course will present the knowledge required for astronomical observations across the entire spectrum. For each wavelength range (gamma rays, X-rays, UV, visible, IR, radio) we will discuss the typeof detector used, the range of possible observations and current open questions. We will also discuss the dominant astronomical and terrestrial sources across the spectrum, and study the differences between ground- and space-based observations.

This course is aimed at both graduate students and upper level undergraduate students. It will cover a range of topics going from the traditional areas of soft matter (polymers, liquid crystals, membranes) to newer areas at the intersection with biological physics and condensed matter. In class, we will combine lectures with reading and discussing papers from the current literature. In the second part of the course, students will at turn lead the paper discussions.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

This sequence is intended for graduate students in physics and related fields. Topics include: metals and insulators, diffraction and crystallography, phonons, electrons in a periodic potential, transport. Co-listed with AS.171.405

This sequence is intended for graduate students in physics and related fields. Classical physics approaches to condensed matter. Topics include broken symmetries, phase transitions, elasticity, topological defects, and (as time permits) dynamics, as applied to systems including crystals, liquid crystals, ferromagnets, superfluids, and superconductors.

For graduate students interested in experimental particle physics, or theory students, or students from other specialties. Subjects covered: experimental techniques, including particle beams, targets, electronics, and various particle detectors; and a broad description of high energy physics problems. Undergraduate students may register online for this course and will be assigned 3 credits during the add/drop period.

This is a graduate course that covers the fundamentals of galaxy formation, galactic structure and stellar dynamics, and includes topics in current research.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

The two-state quantum system; atomic structure; atoms in electric and magnetic fields; single-photon transitions; two-photon transitions and coherence.

Introduction to finite and Lie groups, representations and applications to quantum mechanics, condensed matter physics, and other fields of physics; selected topics from differential geometry and algebraic topology.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

A graduate-level introduction to the properties of the solar system, the known exoplanet systems, and the astrophysics of planet formation and evolution. Topics also include the fundamentals of star formation, protoplanetary disk structure and evolution, exoplanet detection techniques, and the status of the search for other Earths in the Galaxy. Upper-level undergraduates may enroll with the permission of the instructor.

An introduction to the physics of general relativity. Principal topics are: physics in curved spacetimes; the Equivalence Principle; the Einstein Field Equations; the post-Newtonian approximation and Solar System tests; the Schwarzschild and Kerr solutions of the Field Equations and properties of black holes; Friedmann solutions and cosmology; and gravitational wave propagation and generation.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Cells are actively-driven soft materials – but also efficient sensors and information processors. This course will cover the physics of those cellular functions, from the mechanics of DNA to the sensing of chemical signals. Questions answered include: How does polymer physics limit how quickly chromosomes move? Why do cells use long, thin flagella to swim? What limits the accuracy of a cell’s chemotaxis?Some experience with partial differential equations required. No biology knowledge beyond the high school level necessary. Some problem sets will require minimal programming.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

This course is for both graduate students and undergraduate students. There is no prerequisite although reading for introductory texts will be supplied where useful. Postdocs are also welcome to attend. Topics that will be discussed include: 1.Gravitational Wave Astronomy (related to cosmic plasmas),2. Ultra-High Energy Cosmic Rays,3. Black Hole Electrodynamics, 4.the Intergalactic, Interstellar and Intra-Cluster Medium, 5.Pulsars, 6.Magnetars, 7.Stellar and Galactic Dynamos,8.Solar Flares and CMEs, 9.Gamma Ray Bursts, 10.Supernovae and their Remnants, 11. Radio Sources and Jets and, 12. the universal cosmic plasma from earliest times13.Finally the detailed dusty plasmas around protostellar and protoplanetary disks including debris components of comets, asteroids planetesimals and interstellar intruders. We will spend roughly one week on each topic. In class, we will combine the lectures with reading interesting new papers from the current literature and it is expected that students will be sufficiently fluent in this field by the end of the semester to critically discuss and analyze such papers as experts.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. Canonical quantization; scalar, spinor, and vector fields; scattering theory; renormalization; functional integration; spontaneous symmetry breaking; Standard Model of particle physics.

Introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.605-AS.171.606 or equivalent.

Brief review of basic statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Then hydrodynamic theory is derived from statistical mechanics and classical treatments of phase transitions, including Ginzburg-Landau theory.

Course covers phase transitions and critical phenomena. Building on the ideas of spontaneous symmetry breaking and scale invariance at a critical point we develop Landau’s theory of phase transitions and the apparatus of renormalization group using both analytic and numerical techniques for studying interacting systems.

In September 2015, one hundred years after Einstein’s prediction of the existence of gravitational waves, the LIGO/Virgo collaboration detected the gravitational radiation produced by the merger of two black holes, marking the beginning of a new era in astronomy. This course will review the theory of gravitational waves, the main astrophysical and cosmological sources of gravitational radiation, and the modeling of these sources through numerical and analytical techniques. We will discuss how present and future gravitational wave detections on Earth and in space can be used to study the astrophysics of compact objects (such as black holes and neutron stars) and to test Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Description TBA

Artificial Intelligence is penetrating the world at many levels. Neural networks have changed the ways we interact with data and think about statistics. For scientists, it is important to understand the fundamental concepts behind these systems, why they work, what are their potential and limitations. This course will provide an introduction to the subject, including aspects of statistics, information theory, optimization, and neural network architectures. We will alternate between theory and applications in python. More at https://bit.ly/3LEAg7D

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Review of special relativity and an introduction to general relativity, Robertson-Walker metric, and Friedmann equation and solutions. Key transitions in the thermal evolution of the universe, including big bang nucleosynthesis, recombination, and reionization. The early universe (inflation), dark energy, dark matter, and the cosmic microwave background. Development of density perturbations, galaxy formation, and large-scale structure.

Black holes are the central engines for a wide variety of astrophysical objects: Galactic X-ray sources, active galactic nuclei, gamma-ray bursts, stellar tidal disruptions, and black hole mergers. Although the mass distribution of astrophysical black holes spans ten orders of magnitude and their circumstances can vary tremendously, the physical processes relevant to them are often closely related. The class will begin with an overview of astrophysical black hole phenomenology and then review the most important physical mechanisms responsible for their observed properties: relativistic orbits for both matter and photons; accretion dynamics and radiation; relativistic jet launching, propagation, and radiation; binary black hole dynamics and gravitational wave emission; and lastly, black hole creation.

A course for advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students covering the principles of optics and image formation using Fourier Transforms, and a discussion of interferometry and other applications both in radio and optical astronomy.

This course is designed for graduate students interested in learning the language, techniques, and problematic of modern quantum many-body theory as applied to condensed matter physics.

This course will be a survey of modern techniques in experimental condensed matter physics and is intended for graduate students interested in this area, but others interested in this topic (especially condensed matter the- ory students) are encouraged to enroll. Topics include low temperature techniques, transport, the SQUID and other magnetic probes, digital and analog signal processing, scattering (neutron, X-ray, and light), EPR, NMR, data analysis, and Monte Carlo. Sample preparation, including crystal and film growth and lithography will also be covered.

This course with cover various aspects of gauge symmetries and anomaly cancelations, Anomaly matching and EFT, phases of matter, topological states, SPT phases, edge mode, discrete symmetries, aspect of quantum gravity and anomaly cancelations, QCD at low energies and chiral symmetry. A background in quantum mechanics and quantum field theory is recommended for the course.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

General Relativity predicts its own demise in the existence of singular black hole solutions. There have been mounting astrophysical evidence that black holes do exist in nature. Thus they are not just pathologies of the theory but fundamental objects in gravity that require understanding. Theoretically, they serve as "laboratories" for studies in quantum gravity; indeed, most of the research in the field aims to resolve various paradoxes and puzzles that emerge when one tries to understand physics inside or outside black holes. The goal of this course is to elucidate these paradoxes and puzzles. First, we will study the classical properties of black holes in general relativity such as horizons, causal history, singularity theorems, area theorems and black hole mining. Next, we will study semi-quantum and quantum properties such as black hole thermodynamics, Hawking radiation, black hole evaporation. We will also explore modern results and perspectives on the fundamental physics of black holes that are necessary for current research. A background in general relativity and quantum field theory is recommended for the course.

The overwhelming evidence that dark matter exists and that it is not part of the fundamental theory of matter (the standard model) suggests the need for a graduate course. I will cover what is known and not known about dark matter, being specific enough to open lines of inquiry. I will cover what the rules of quantum field theory would allow it to be and how it could interact with us. I will go over possible mechanisms that explain the generation of dark matter in our universe in the first place. In addition, I will go over the ways to potentially discover (interact with) it directly.The first half or more of the course should be mostly accessible to advanced graduate students in astrophysics and high-energy particle experimentalists. The last half/third will be more field-theory oriented

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

Independent Research

Independent Research

This seminar exposes physics majors to a broad variety of contemporary experimental and theoretical issues in the field. Students read and discuss reviews from the current literature, and are expected to make an oral or written presentation. Recommended Course Background: AS.171.101-AS.171.102, AS.171.103-AS.171.104, AS.171.105-AS.171.106 or AS.171.107-AS.171.108.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1), Science and Data (FA2)

Writing Intensive

Survey of the basic concepts, ideas, and areas of research in astrophysics, discussing general astrophysical topics while highlighting specialized terms often used compared to physics.

Experiments performed in the lab provide further illustration of the principles discussed in General Physics I. Students are required to take this course concurrently with General Physics I (AS.171.101 OR AS.171.103 OR AS.171.105 OR AS.171.107) unless they already have received credit for one of the mentioned courses. Note: First and second terms must be taken in sequence.

Prerequisite(s): Students must have completed Lab Safety training prior to registering for this class. To access the tutorial, login to myLearning and enter 458083 in the Search box to locate the appropriate module.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Experiments are chosen from both physical and biological sciences and are designed to give students background in experimental techniques as well as to reinforce physical principles. Recommended Course Background: AS.173.111

Prerequisite(s): Students must have completed Lab Safety training prior to registering for this class. To access the tutorial, login to myLearning and enter 458083 in the Search box to locate the appropriate module.;The following courses can be taken concurrently or as a prerequisite: AS171.102 OR AS.171.104 OR AS.171.106 OR AS.171.108 OR EN.530.123

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2)

Experiments chosen to complement the lecture course Classical Mechanics I, II AS.171.105-AS.171.106 and introduce students to experimental techniques and statistical analysis. Corequisite: AS.171.105.

Prerequisite(s): Students must have completed Lab Safety training prior to registering for this class. To access the tutorial, login to myLearning and enter 458083 in the Search box to locate the appropriate module.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1), Science and Data (FA2)

Writing Intensive

Experiments chosen to complement Electricity and Magnetism AS.171.106 and introduce students to experimental techniques and statistical analysis.

Prerequisite(s): Students must have completed Lab Safety training prior to registering for this class. To access the tutorial, login to myLearning and enter 458083 in the Search box to locate the appropriate module.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1), Science and Data (FA2)

A broad exposure to modern laboratory procedures such as holography, chaos, and atomic, molecular, and particle physics.

Prerequisite(s): Students must have completed Lab Safety training prior to registering for this class. To access the tutorial, login to myLearning and enter 458083 in the Search box to locate the appropriate module.

Distribution Area: Natural Sciences

AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1), Science and Data (FA2), Projects and Methods (FA6)

Writing Intensive