Instructor:
Jim McNeil (MH 325; x3844)
Email: jamcneil@mines.edu
Spring 2001 McNeil's Homepage
McNeil's Schedule

Text: Modern Physics for Scientists and Engineers, Thornton and Rex

Course Learning Objectives: The purpose of Modern Physics is to introduce engineering and science students to the foundations and principles of modern physics, specifically relativity, quantum mechanics, and their applications. The overall student learning objective is to become "scientifically literate", that is, to have the contextualized knowledge and analytic skills necessary to construct an understanding of phenomena in the domain of modern physics.
Demonstrating this ability in some problem entails (1) recognizing the context and applicable physics concepts and principles, (2) applying appropriate facts, models, and analogies, (3) articulating the concepts and principles using mathematics and logic, (4) analyzing the inquiry to a useful conclusion, and (5) evaluating the results.
To guide, promote, and assess this development a variety of learning activities will be undertaken: text readings, traditional lectures, modeling of problem-solving, peer instruction, group and individual problem-solving exercises, homework, and exams.
A secondary learning objective is for the students to become proficient on some symbolic analysis tool, such as Mathematica. Where appropriate students should do their homework using such tools.

Homework: Homework will be assigned periodically and graded. The assignments and due dates are given on the Course Schedule.

Exams: There will be four examinations given during the course of the term. They will be given in the common exam time slot on Tuesday from 11:00-12:00 on the dates listed on the Course Schedule. According to the academic policy of the school, the exam has the priority and students with time conflicts with courses scheduled during the common exam hour should make arrangements with their respective course instuctor to make up work missed. Make-up exams will only be offered for excused absenses (e.g. medical, family emergencies, etc.). To receive full credit solutions to exam problems must start from fundamental principles, such as energy conservation. If you suspect an error in the grading of your exam, state the reason for your grievance in writing on a separate sheet of paper and return your written grievance with the exam to the instructor by the next class. Do not write on your exam. Your grievance will be considered and returned to you within one week.

Grading:
(A: 90-100%, B: 80-89%, C: 70-79%, D: 60-69%, F: <59%)

1. Homework: 15%
2. Class Activities/Quizzes: 15%
3. Midterm Exams: 50%
5. Final Exam: 20%