On Time - An Exploration of Time Keeping 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; the fundamental laws of physics are essentially indifferent to the arrow of time. In this course we will use lectures, discussions, homework exercises, papers, and presentations to explore the history of time keeping, from astronomical observations to atomic clocks, learning how data collection and analysis spur advancements in science. Along the way we will explore Einstein’s theory of relativity, where pure logic and deductive reasoning lead to perplexing conclusions about time.

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.

The Physics of Motion This calculus-based course examines fundamental topics in motion and mechanics, including inertia, force, Newton's laws of motion, work, energy, linear momentum, collisions, gravitation, rotational motion, torque, and angular momentum, emphasizing applications in physics, engineering, the life sciences, and everyday life. Laboratory explorations of topics covered in lecture will build students’ physical intuition and problem-solving skills. Students who have taken a high-school course in physics should consider enrolling in PHYS 0109.

Introductory Mechanics This calculus-based course examines fundamental topics in motion and mechanics, including inertia, force, Newton's laws of motion, work, energy, linear momentum, collisions, gravitation, rotational motion, torque, angular momentum, and oscillatory motion, emphasizing applications in physics and engineering.  Laboratory explorations of topics covered in lecture will build students’ physical intuition and problem-solving skills.

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.

Oscillatory Motion, Waves, Optics, and Thermodynamics  This calculus-based course covers oscillations, wave motion, sound, geometrical optics, physical optics, and thermodynamics.  Other physics topics may be added at the discretion of the instructor.  Lab experiments will explore these topics and develop skills in experimentation and data analysis.

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. (PHYS 0108 or 0109 and MATH 0122) Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 0110 and PHYS 0114.

An Introduction to the Universe Our universe comprises billions of galaxies in a rapidly expanding fabric. How did it begin? Will it expand forever, or how may it end? How do the stars that compose the galaxies evolve from their births in clouds of gas, through the tranquility of middle age, to their often violent deaths? How can scientists even hope to answer such cosmic questions from our vantage point on a small planet, orbiting a very ordinary star? Are there other planets, orbiting other stars, where intelligent beings may be pondering similar issues? This introductory astronomy course, designed for nonscience majors, will explore these and other questions. Students will also become familiar with the night sky, both as part of our natural environment and as a scientific resource, through independent observations and sessions at the College Observatory. The approach requires no college-level mathematics, but students should expect to do quantitative calculations using scientific notation and occasionally to use elementary high-school algebra.

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.

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.

Applied Mathematics for the Physical Sciences This course concentrates on the methods of applied mathematics used for treating the partial differential equations that commonly arise in physics, chemistry, and engineering. Topics include differential vector calculus, Fourier series, and other orthogonal function sets. Emphasis will be given to physical applications of the mathematics. This course is a prerequisite for all 0300- and 0400-level physics courses. (MATH 0122; PHYS 0110 concurrent or prior) 4.

Relativity and Electromagnetism This course develops a unified description of electromagnetism and Einstein’s theory of special relativity, based upon the postulate that the laws of physics are the same in all inertial reference frames. Topics include relativistic phenomena, relativistic energy and momentum, Lorentz transformations, four-vectors in spacetime, differential operators and integral theorems of vector calculus, Maxwell’s equations in differential form, electromagnetic waves, and the electromagnetic vector potential.

Waves and Fourier Analysis Wave mechanics provides our most fundamental description of all known forms of matter, radiation, and their interactions. In this course we will develop the physics of oscillations and waves and the associated mathematics of Fourier series and transforms, orthogonal functions, and solutions of ordinary and partial differential equations, focusing especially on solutions of initial and boundary value problems by separation of variables in Cartesian, cylindrical and spherical coordinates. (PHYS 0109 or PHYS 0108 and PHYS 0111 or PHYS 0114 and MATH 0122) Students may not receive credit for both PHYS 0212 and PHYS 0216. 4.

Quantum Physics Classical theories of physics fail to adequately explain the behavior of the smallest and most fundamental objects in nature. In this course we introduce quantum theory, which makes accurate predictions by describing fundamental particles as wave-like and measurements as inherently probabilistic. Students will utilize prior knowledge of wave behavior to explore the foundational principles of quantum theory, including the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, the Schrödinger wave equation and wave-particle duality. These principles and techniques are then applied to explain the properties of elementary particles, atoms, molecules, and nuclei. (PHYS 0216) Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 0218 and PHYS 0202.

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.

Experimental Techniques in Physics I In this lab course, we will learn the design and execution of experiments, the modeling of physical systems, and the analysis and presentation of data, at an intermediate level.  Laboratory experiments will examine topics in classical mechanics, optics, quantum mechanics, and electricity and magnetism, each with an emphasis on the acquisition of data and computer-aided analysis of data. Students will also gain experience keeping a lab notebook and writing a lab report. (PHYS 0111 OR PHYS 0216) AND

Computational Physics The laws of physics provide a beautiful mathematical framework for describing the universe. Yet it’s rare that exact solutions to the resulting equations can be found with pen and paper. In this course we will explore a range of powerful computational methods that allow us to solve physical problems, primarily using the Python programming language. Applications of these methods will include problems in Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical and thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and relativity. No prior experience with programming is required. Students who meet the prerequisites for PHYS 0325 must register for that course instead. (Not open to students who have taken PHYS 0230 or PHYS 0202, or CSCI 0145 or CSCI 0150)

Biomedical Imaging Why do we use microscopes for thin tissue slices but x-rays for imaging through the entire body? In this course we will explore the physics of light and life through various biomedical imaging techniques. We will apply the fundamental imaging concepts of resolution, aberration, diffraction, scattering, the Fourier transform, and deconvolution. Most of the course will focus on biomedical optics, including standard optical microscopes, fluorescence imaging, spectroscopy, fiber-optic endoscopes, and laser-scanning microscopes. The latter part of the course will cover non-optical imaging, such as ultrasound, x-ray, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Students will gain hands-on experience through field trips to a local hospital and the use of the Cell Imaging Facility in McCardell Bicentennial Hall.

An Introduction to Astrophysics In this course students will learn the fundamental concepts and techniques used by astronomers to understand the universe and its contents. These include the physics of light (which conveys the properties of astrophysical phenomena) and gravity (the fundamental force that drives orbits). We will apply these techniques to learn about the physics of stars including stellar interiors and stellar atmospheres as well as their nuclear energy generation processes. We will use real astrophysical data to explore the wide-ranging properties of stars and stellar evolution from birth to death. Students will engage with the literature and learn to use data analysis tools, including Python programming, to analyze real data. No prior experience with programming is required. (PHYS 0111 OR PHYS 0114) AND

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. (PHYS  0212 OR PHYS  0216) AND (PHYS  0110 OR PHYS  0114) AND

Electromagnetic Waves Maxwell's theory of the electromagnetic field provides the basis of our understanding of the nature of light, radio waves, infrared radiation, X-rays, and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. This course examines the behavior of electromagnetic waves starting from Maxwell's equations, the fundamental laws of electromagnetism. Topics include wave propagation in different materials; reflection and refraction at interfaces; applications in space communications, optics, and other fields; and relativistic electrodynamics. (PHYS 0301) 3 hr. lect.

Electromagnetic Theory The unified description of electromagnetic fields is one of the most profound theories in physics and provides the basis for our understanding of the nature of light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. In this course we will investigate the theory of electromagnetic waves starting from an understanding of Maxwell’s equations in differential vector form, applied both in empty space and materials. We will see how fundamental properties of light, such as polarization, energy, and momentum, emerge from these equations. Other topics may include boundary value problems in electrostatics; the multipole expansion; wave propagation in materials; principles of optics including reflection and refraction; radio-based communications; and electrodynamics in astrophysics. (PHYS 0214 and PHYS 0216) (Not open to students who have successfully completed PHYS 0301.) 3 hrs. Lect.

Quantum Mechanics (formerly PHYS 0401) A fundamental course in quantum mechanics aimed at understanding the mathematical structure of the theory and its application to physical phenomena at the atomic level. Topics include the basic postulates of quantum mechanics, operator formalism, Schrödinger equation, one-dimensional and central potentials, and angular momentum and spin.

Experimental Techniques in Physics *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.

Computational Physics The laws of physics provide a beautiful mathematical framework for describing the universe. Yet it’s rare that exact solutions to the resulting equations can be found with pen and paper. In this course we will explore a range of powerful computational methods that allow us to solve physical problems, primarily using the Python programming language. Applications of these methods will include problems in Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical and thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and relativity. Prior programming experience or physics coursework at 200 level is required to enroll in this course; students without this background may be eligible to enroll in PHYS 0225 (not open to students who have taken PHYS 0230). (PHYS 0109 and MATH 0122 and PHYS 0202 or CSCI 0145 or CSCI 0150 or equivalent).

Analytical Mechanics An intermediate-level course in the kinematics and dynamics of particles and rigid body motion. The topics will include: analysis and application of Newton's law of mechanics; the concepts of work, energy, and power; energy conservation; momentum and momentum conservation; torque, angular momentum, and angular momentum conservation; oscillatory motion; and central-force motion. Lagrange's and Hamilton's formulations of classical mechanics will be introduced with emphasis placed on developing problem-solving strategies and techniques.

High Energy Astrophysics The study of high energy astrophysics offers insights into some of the most extreme environments and phenomena found in the Universe, from ultra-strong magnetic fields to the event horizons of black holes. In this course we will explore an introduction to the physics of high energy emission and absorption processes in the context of white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, supernovae, and more. We will link the theory of these emission mechanisms to data through X-ray data analysis projects that will introduce students to the spectroscopic and timing analyses used by high energy astrophysicists. (PHYS 0214).

Statistical Mechanics This course is a study of statistical mechanics and its applications to a variety of classical and quantum systems.  It includes a discussion of microstates, macrostates, and entropy, and systematically introduces the microcanonical, canonical, grand canonical, and isobaric ensembles. This underlying theory is applied to topics including classical thermodynamics, the equipartition theorem, electromagnetic blackbody radiation, heat capacities of solids, and ideal classical and quantum gases, with a focus on Bose-Einstein condensation and degenerate Fermi systems.

Observational Astrophysics This is a lecture and laboratory course covering techniques in modern observational astrophysics, at an advanced level. Students will be trained to operate the telescope in the Mittelman observatory on campus and will gain expertise in the acquisition and analysis of digital images. Students will design and conduct a variety of observational projects from canonical experiments that illuminate the nature of stars and galaxies to originally conceived projects such as photometric studies in the time domain. Skills in computer-based data reduction, analysis, and presentation will be developed and emphasized. The course may also include theoretical modeling techniques that would make use of advanced computation and data mining methods. Students will write up their observing projects and results in comprehensive reports to satisfy the College writing requirement. Nighttime attendance at the observatory outside of formal class meeting time will be required.

Cosmology Cosmology is the study of the Universe as a whole entity, including the origin, evolution, and ultimate fate of the entire Universe. In this course we will study the Big Bang, inflation, primordial nucleosynthesis, the cosmic microwave background, the formation of galaxies, and large-scale structure. The course will link observations to theory in order to address some of the current open questions in cosmology such as: what are the forms of matter and energy distributed in the Universe? What is the expansion rate of the Universe and how has it changed with time? What is the age of the Universe? What is the shape of the Universe?

General Relativity Among the forces of nature, gravity is both the most familiar and the least well-understood.  A hundred years after it was formulated by Einstein, General Relativity remains our best fundamental theory of gravity.  In this course we will see how gravity emerges from the geometry of curved spacetime and how this picture leads to phenomena such as black holes, gravitational waves, and the expansion of the universe.

Quantum Mechanics A fundamental course in quantum mechanics aimed at understanding the mathematical structure of the theory and its application to physical phenomena at the atomic and nuclear levels. Topics include the basic postulates of quantum mechanics, operator formalism, Schrödinger equation, one-dimensional and central potentials, angular momentum and spin, perturbation theory, and systems of identical particles.

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

Cosmic Beginnings and Endings The study of astronomy is driven by questions about the origins and ultimate fate of objects in the cosmos. Astronomical time scales often far exceed human ones, meaning that we rarely get to watch astronomy happen in the same way that we can watch experiments in a traditional physics laboratory. Astronomers can only observe objects as they are and must develop theories and models about how they came to be and how they might cease to be. In this course, we will explore scientific models about the cosmic beginnings and endings of some of the most fundamental objects in the Universe (and of the Universe itself). Topics will include the Big Bang, the ultimate fate of the Universe, the formation of the first stars and galaxies, the births and deaths of stars, and the search for life in the Universe. The course has no prerequisites, but students should expect to solve quantitative problems using algebra and trigonometry and to read scientific articles regarding recent astronomical discoveries.

Introduction to the Space Environment Space - It’s all around us. What’s there? How do we know what’s there? How do we get there? What do we do there? We will explore these questions along with the fundamentals of space science and engineering, focusing on the near-earth space environment. Topics include: History of rocket science, basic physics (forces and Newton’s laws.), rocket and jet engines, orbits, satellite missions, the space environment/weather, space policy and commerce, and space in pop culture. We will have lectures interspersed with small group discussions. Labs will highlight the scientific process and associated skills such as data collection, validation, and analysis. Additionally, we will have guest presentations by space industry professionals.

Picture a Physicist Picture a physicist.  Whom do you see?  In this course we will learn about the pioneering physics research done by women, African Americans, and members of other groups that are underrepresented in physics.  Through in-class demonstrations and simulations, students will understand the many physics questions that would never have been answered without a diverse group of physicists working to solve them.  Students will read about the lives and struggles of these physicists and will examine the hidden and overt obstacles that can hinder their persistence in the field.  No prior knowledge of physics is necessary nor expected.

Ancient Astronomy In this course we will learn about astronomy through the lens of ancient civilizations. By studying the civilizations of the Babylonians and Greeks, as well as selected civilizations around the world, we will learn how ancient astronomers determined the sizes of the Earth and Moon as well as distances to bodies in the solar system and how celestial phenomena motivated religious and cultural practice. We will employ hands-on, lab-like activities, and naked-eye observations of the sky along with moderate use of mathematics to learn how our ancestors understood our place in the cosmos.

Angus Findlay

Anne Goodsell

Catherine Miller

Chris Herdman

Eilat Glikman

McKinley Brumback

Michael Dunham

Michael Durst

Nicholas Perlongo

Noah Graham

Paul Hess

Siegfried Bleher

Stephen Ratcliff

Susan Watson

Read 295 reviews for Physics courses at Middlebury College. Find the best Physics professors and courses.  Discover your new major today!

Professor Dunham is very thoughtful about his lectures and how various students learn best. He asks for feedback on his teaching and homeworks throughout the course. The exams were difficult but fair, as the questions were creative but drew upon concepts learned in class. The readings were very interesting and the lectures and problem sets solidified my understanding of the material.

I went into this course knowing I don't like physics and my opinion did not change. There is such an excessive amount of homework in this class that is quite unnecessary. I found myself just going through the motions to get it done without actually learning the material. Additionally, I did not find lecture to be helpful at all and we rarely covered any of the content that was actually on the homework - felt pointless. I had to take it for pre-med but would not recommend.  

I thought this class was about what I expected as a non-physics major. The pace was very manageable, but long and tedious accuracy-graded homework assignments took up a lot of time and effort every week. We also had reading quizzes for each class. The exams were a lot like the homework. Lecture would sometimes get confusing, but Professor Hess clearly cares about his students and has a lot of enthusiasm for the material.