Physics (PHYS)

Physics is the mathematical theory of nature, and takes all of nature as its subject. Over time, as insights from physics proved useful in other sciences, these other sciences have also become more mathematical. For this reason physics is a good foundation for the study of any science. Physics is also a natural complement to the study of mathematics. Because it deals with the world in such generality, physics is also a natural complement to the study of philosophy.

Until the work of Isaac Newton it was not obvious that a mathematical theory of nature existed at all. After Newton there could be no doubt. The introductory courses in physics are about Newton's picture of the world, a conceptual scheme we still use today. (Even post-Newtonian developments like quantum mechanics and relativity evolved from Newton's picture.)

The two introductory course sequences, 103-204 and 115-216, differ in their aims and in their mathematical level. Physics 103-204 is a yearlong introduction to physics that aims at broad coverage of topics. It is appropriate for premedical students and students with an intellectual interest, but not a professional interest, in physics. It does not use calculus. Physics 115-216 is a yearlong introduction to physics with more restricted coverage of topics, but more technical depth. It uses calculus, beginning with elementary calculus, with gradually increasing sophistication. It is appropriate for prospective majors in physics, mathematics, chemistry, astronomy, and for students interested in engineering. First-year students may consider enrolling in: