Quantum Physics and Applications This course introduces quantum theory and statistical mechanics, and explores the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, the Schrödinger wave equation, and wave mechanics. These techniques are then applied to atomic, molecular, nuclear, and elementary particle systems.

Electronics for Scientists An introduction to modern electronic circuits and devices, emphasizing both physical operation and practical use. Transistors and integrated circuits are considered in both analog and digital applications. Examples and laboratory experiments stress measurement and control applications in the physical and biological sciences. Students will gain hands-on familiarity with the design, use, and troubleshooting of electronic instrumentation.

Electricity and Magnetism The physical principles of electricity and magnetism are developed with calculus and applied to the electrical structure of matter and the electromagnetic nature of light. Practical topics from electricity and magnetism include voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, inductance, and AC and DC circuits. Laboratory work includes an introduction to electronics and to important instruments such as the oscilloscope.

Relativity and Quantum Physics This course probes a number of areas for which classical physics has provided no adequate explanations. Topics covered include Einstein's special relativity, quantization of atomic energy levels and photons, the atomic models of Rutherford and Bohr, and wave-particle duality.

Experimental Techniques in Physics This course will cover the design and execution of experiments, and the analysis and presentation of data, at an advanced level. Laboratory experiments will be chosen to illustrate the use of electronic, mechanical, and optical instruments to investigate fundamental physical phenomena, such as the properties of atoms and nuclei and the nature of radiation. Skills in computer-based data analysis and presentation will be developed and emphasized. This course satisfies the College writing requirement.

Senior Project Independent research project incorporating both written and oral presentations.

Intermediate Electromagnetism The unified description of electricity and magnetism is one of the greatest triumphs of physics. This course provides a thorough grounding in the nature of electric and magnetic fields and their interaction with matter. Mathematical techniques appropriate to the solution of problems in electromagnetism are also introduced. The primary emphasis is on static fields, with the full time-dependent Maxwell equations and electromagnetic waves introduced in the final part of the course.

On Time Time is at once familiar and confounding. After eighteen years (568 million seconds) of existence, you know it intimately. But what is time, really? The truth is, we don’t know. Time doesn’t even appear in the most fundamental laws of physics. In this course we explore the history of time-keeping from mechanical clocks to atomic clocks, human perceptions of time, Einstein’s theory of relativity, and present-day theories on time. Readings include Longitude (Dava Sobel), Simply Einstein (Richard Wolfson), The Order of Time (Carlo Rovelli) and selected articles from neuroscience. We will also look back in time using the College Observatory.

Physics for Educated Citizens In this course for nonscience majors we will explore topics of current interest—climate change, energy resources, nuclear processes, radiation, satellite communication—and show how each is understood within the context of physics. Our resources will be a textbook, Physics and Technology for Future Presidents, and non-technical articles of your choosing. Our goals will be to develop a working knowledge of physics as it applies to important topics, to effectively communicate that knowledge through discussions and oral presentations, and to develop an understanding of how science is grounded in data and thoroughly intertwined with society.

Susan Watson

Reviews and ratings for Susan Watson at Middlebury College.Susan Watson teaches Quantum Physics Applications, Electronics For Scientists, Electricity & Magnetism and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Susan Watson good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Prof Watson is very enthusiastic about the material but her lectures are too fast paced. She solves complex math equations without explanation assuming that the students know how to do it. The exams are very hard since they cover ideas not seen in class. Even though the material was very interesting, it was hard to engage given the fast-paced and complex nature of the course.

The course is super interesting. It is a good intro leap in modern physics. Since the class is only really taken by majors it tends to be small which is super nice because everyone can work through problems together.  Watson is really nice and a good teacher but a little tough on the grading

This course is pretty brutal. Lots of lab work and papers to write. Prof. Watson is very tough on grading and expects lab notebooks and papers to be perfect. Be prepared to get very familiar with latex. 