2023-2024 Course Catalog

PHYS 1001 Energy, Climate & Physics in Society

This course covers topics in physics with an emphasis on conceptual understanding of physics principles and the technology applications related to current issues, including the sources and uses of energy, climate change, and the ethical dimensions of technological choices. This course will give students the solid foundation in physics they need to be critically thinking, scientifically literate citizens able to distinguish scientifically sound, evidence-based technological decisions from those that are not. Topics may include energy production and conservation, radioactivity and nuclear weapons, transportation options, various consequences of climate change, and invisible light. The personal, political, and ethical dimensions of technological choices will be a significant emphasis in this course. Lecture 3 hours; lab 0 hours.

Credits

3 cr

Offered

Fall, Spring

MnTC Goals

3, 9