PHYS 103 Basic Physics II is an algebra-based survey of the basics of electromagnetism and modern physics. This course is suitable for those pursuing studies in the life sciences or others who do not plan to pursue careers in the physical sciences or engineering. We first study electrostatics of particles. This leads into electric circuits involving resistors and capacitors. Next we look at magnetism. Finally we investigate topics applicable to life sciences, such as electromagnetic waves, sound, and nuclear physics. The lab component of the course is an opportunity to reinforce concepts and content from the course, and to develop experimental method and reporting results.
Prerequisites: PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of 60%
Accessibility Services Notice
Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 90 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 3 |
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| Lab (lab, field, computer) | 3 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Recognize the role of electricity and magnetism in nature and in technology
- Provide examples of real-world applications of the topics in this course
- Apply a variety of problem-solving strategies in familiar and unfamiliar situations
- Recognize the simplifications and assumptions required for a particular model to apply to the real world
- Use current physics lab technology and equipment to safely compose and investigate electric circuits
- Communicate a written solution to a physics problem in a detailed and logical approach that peers in the life sciences can readily follow
- Exhibit professional behaviours such as respect for colleagues and peers, punctuality, willingness to think independently, and pride in presentation of work
Teaching and Learning Approach
In class, concepts and formulae will be presented in a variety of methods, including typical black-board notes,
PowerPoint slides, videos, and demonstrations. Students’ questions are encouraged and group discussions
happen on occasion. Problem solving is a major component of this course, so expect often to engage in
attempting a problem prior to the solution being presented on the board. The lab provides opportunities to
develop hands-on skills, to collaborate with peers, to learn methods of scientific investigations, and to confirm
theoretical results.Learning Resources
Required:
P. Urone, Hinrichs, et al., College Physics 2e, OpenStax, 2022.
Available for free online at: Free College Physics Textbook Available for Download - OpenStax, or for purchase
as a print copy hardcover book from the college bookstore.
Recommended:
Student Solutions Guide to accompany the textbook, available online.
Instructor’s Moodle website to accompany the course.Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. Electric forces & electric fields
2. Electric potential
3. Capacitors & electric current
4. Electric current, resistance, & power
5. Electric circuits
6. Test 1 & electric circuits
7. Reading Week
8. Magnetism
9. Waves
10. Sound & Optics
11. Radioactivity
12. Review & Test 2
13. Applications of Nuclear Physics
14. Review
15. Final exam weekAssessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
|---|
| Assignments | 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 | 10% |
| Lab Reports | 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 | 15% |
| Quizzes | 1, 3, 4 | 12% |
| Presentation | 1, 2, 6, 7 | 8% |
| Tests (2) | 3, 4, 6 | 28% |
| Final Exam | 3, 4, 6 | 27% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table
| Percentage |
Letter Grade |
GPA |
| 90-100 |
A+ |
4.33 |
| 85-89 |
A |
4.00 |
| 80-84 |
A- |
3.67 |
| 76-79 |
B+ |
3.33 |
| 72-75 |
B |
3.00 |
| 68-71 |
B- |
2.67 |
| 64-67 |
C+ |
2.33 |
| 60-63 |
C |
2.00 |
| 55-59 |
C- |
1.67 |
| 50-54 |
P |
1.00 |
| 0-49 |
F |
0.00 |
| |
DNW |
0.00 |
See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.
Disclaimer
Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.