PHYS 005. Spacetime and Quanta

This course presents an introduction to the twin pillars of contemporary physics: relativity and quantum theory. Students will explore the counterintuitive consequences of special relativity for our understanding of space and time, and the nature of the subatomic quantum world, where our notions of absolute properties such as position or speed of a particle are replaced by probabilities. It is the usual entry point to majoring or minoring in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics, and is a pre or co-requisite for the sophomore-level physics major curriculum; it welcomes both non-majors and prospective majors who are interested in engaging rigorously and deeply with both the mathematical and conceptual descriptions of physics.
Not eligible for NSEP credit.
Natural sciences and engineering.
1 credit.
Fall 2020. Brown and Crouch.
Fall 2021. Geller and Smith, T.
Catalog chapter: Physics and Astronomy
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/physics-astronomy

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