Physics 2064

General Physics II Fall 2006 Dr. John M. Pratte

Physics 2064 is a algebra-based introduction to classical physics. It is an introduction to classical electromagnetic theory, geometrical and physical optics and modern physics. Major topics include the concepts of the electric field and potential, circuits and their elements, magnetic fields, inductance, electromagnetic waves and their interaction with various media, interference and diffraction. Selected topics from atomic and nuclear physics as well as relativity will also be discussed. Subject matter content will be reinforced through a systematic development of conceptual as well as quantitative problem solving. 

Physics 2064 is the second course of a sequence that is intended to serve students in programs other than Physics or Engineering. Majors in these two areas should take PHYS 2044 (not 2064) as their second course in their physics sequence.

The laboratory is an integral component of the course. Each laboratory exercise is keyed to a concept(s) covered in class. Laboratory reports and handouts will be collected and graded weekly.

This is a college science course, which will be much more rigorous than any high school science course.  You are expected to put in 6-9 hours each week reading, studying, working problems, and discussing the material in this course. This means that you will need to do more than just show up for class and skim the textbook. Each week's material and assignments will have objectives listed with them. You will be expected to not only be able to remember this information, but to also understand the material covered in these objectives and to use it to solve problems. 

Someone once said, "Ninety percent of life is just showing up."  This does not apply to a college classroom.  Showing up for class every day guarantees you only one thing: you will make at least an F in the class.  Learning is an active process. While attendance is expected at all class meetings, merely being present is no guarantee of a strong performance in the class. In-class discussion will play an integral role in the learning process, i.e. come prepared for class by reading the book and reviewing your notes and chapter objectives and take part in the discussion. While I do not assign grades for participating in class, experience has shown that students that take an active role in class and come prepared for class do much better on the tests.  Remember, students are responsible for all materials and announcements made in class. 

You should be taking this course because you are interested in learning more about the world around you and how it operates.  If you fully participate in this class, you will achieve this goal.  Remember, your instructor is here to help you in this endeavor.  If you are having trouble, come see me or call me as soon as the trouble starts.  Do not wait until later in the semester when things might have gotten worse for you.  

The use of simple calculators is allowed in all laboratories and examinations. All examinations are closed book. No "memory sheets" or note cards are allowed. Visitors (friends, children, etc.) are strictly prohibited from the laboratory periods.

Attendance is required for all tests, lab, and quiz times. There are no make-up quizzes or tests. Any grade for a missed examination or quiz will be replaced with the grade for the final exam with a valid excuse (illness, death, etc.) for the absence.  Assignments are due at the stated deadlines.  Assignments turned in late will have their grade reduced by 10% each day that it is late. Without an appropriate excuse, a grade of F may be assigned for the missed work.

Participation in laboratory activities involves an inherent risk of injury. In the event of injury, the student should immediately inform the instructor, who will contact the Campus Public Safety Officer. The Officer will file an accident report and administer first aid or contact appropriate medical help.

Academic Honesty: Every ASU student is expected to follow the regulations regarding academic integrity as stated in the Arkansas State University Undergraduate Handbook. Plagiarism and cheating of any kind will not be tolerated.  A first infraction will result in a zero for the assignment.  Further infractions will result in a failing grade for the course and a recommendation for sanctions to be imposed on the student by the University.  

Withdrawal Policy: The withdrawal policy as stated in the Arkansas State University Undergraduate Handbook will be followed. For this semester, the last day to withdraw without academic penalty is November 17, 2006. Make certain to follow all procedures if you decide to withdraw; failure to do so will result in your being assigned a grade of "F" for the course. 

Disability: Students with a documented disability and wish to receive academic accommodations need to meet with the instructor as soon as possible to discuss special needs. Students who require academic adjustments in the classroom due to disability must also register with ASU Disability Services (room 410 Chickasaw Building).

If, for some unusual reason, changes need to be made to this syllabus at a later date, announcements will be made in class, and changes made to the copy found on the class website.

For comments and questions, send messages to : jpratte@astate.edu