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Academic Calendar 2009 UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION Physics (S)
INTRODUCTION
UNDERGRADUATE SESSIONAL DATES
STUDENT SERVICES
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES
FACULTIES
UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION
FACULTY MEMBERS
AFFILIATED UNIVERSITY COLLEGES
GLOSSARY
NEW MODULES/PROGRAMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Physics (S)

Note:  In order to find a course in the new 4 digit numbering system using an old 3 digit number, please refer to the conversion list below. Before registering for courses with the new 4 digit numbering system, please ensure that you have not previously taken the course in its 3 digit form.

Click here for conversion list of former 3-digit course numbers.

 
10201021102410261028A/B1029A/B2032A/B2065A/B
2070A/B2101A/B2102A/B2128A/B2129A/B2600A/B2700A/B2800
2900E2930A/B2950Y3151A/B3200A/B3300A/B3380A/B3400A/B
3809A/B3900F/G/Z3926F/G3930A/B3950Y4251A/B4351A/B4551A/B
4662A/B4672A/B4810A/B4850A/B4930A/B4931A/B4950Y4999E
Physics 1020 - Physics I
Mechanics, electricity and magnetism, oscillations and waves. This is a calculus-based laboratory course for students intending to pursue further studies in science, particularly the Physical Sciences.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1021, 1024, 1026, 1028A/B, 1029A/B.
Prerequisite(s): Grade 12U (SPH4U) Physics; Grade 12U Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) or the former Grade 12U Advanced Functions and Introductory Calculus (MCB4U) or Mathematics 0110A/B.
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
Note: This course is a suitable prerequisite for all programs in the Faculty of Science, and for professional schools having a Physics requirement.
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Physics 1021 - Conceptual Physics for Non-Scientists
The concepts of physics are presented without mathematics. The topics include motion, force, mass, energy, momentum, rotational motion, heat, sound, electricity, magnetism, optics, lasers, and relativity. Demonstrations are an important component. This non- laboratory course is particularly suitable for Arts and Humanities and Social Science students.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1024, 1026, 1028A/B, 1029A/B, Grade 12U (SPH4U) within the last three years.
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
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Physics 1024 - Introductory Physics
Topics include mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, fluid flow, thermal physics, elements of wave-particle duality. This is a calculus-based laboratory course for students intending to pursue further studies in science.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1021, 1026, 1028A/B, 1029A/B.
Prerequisite(s): Grade 12U Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) or the former Grade 12U Advanced Functions and Introductory Calculus (MCB4U) or Mathematics 0110A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
Note: The department recommends that students also take a concurrent course that includes Calculus. Please be aware that some of the programs for which Physics 1024 is a prerequisite also require Calculus 1000A/B or Calculus 1100A/B plus Calculus 1501A/B, or Applied Mathematics 1413. This course is a suitable prerequisite for programs in the Faculty of Science, and for professional schools having a Physics requirement.
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Physics 1026 - Physics for Engineering Students
A calculus based course which discusses kinematics, Newton's laws of motion, work, energy, linear momentum, simple harmonic motion, electrostatics, d.c. circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetic induction.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1021, 1024, 1028A/B, 1029A/B.
Prerequisite(s): Grade 12U (SPH4U) Physics; Grade 12U Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) or the former Grade 12U Advanced Functions and Introductory Calculus (MCB4U) or Mathematics 0110A/B.
Corequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 1413.
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 1.0 course.
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Physics 1028A/B - Physics for the Biological Sciences I
Fundamental physics concepts are introduced with an emphasis on applications in biological processes. Topics include bioenergetics (metabolism and respiration), membranes, electrical properties of molecules and principles of microscopy.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1021, 1024, 1026.
Prerequisite(s): One of the following four courses: Grade 12U Advanced Functions (MHF4U), the former Grade 12U Advanced Functions and Introductory Calculus (MCB4U), the former Grade 12U Geometry and Discrete Mathematics (MGA4U), Mathematics 0110A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 1029A/B - Physics for the Biological Sciences II
Fundamental physics concepts are introduced with an emphasis on applications in biological processes. Topics include: nerve electricity, the eye and color vision, elasticity and sound, the cardiovascular system and biomechanics.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1021, 1024, 1026. 
Prerequisite(s): Physics 1028A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/ tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2032A/B - The Physics of Music and Sound
Designed for non-science students. Fascinating physical insight into: intriguing properties of sound waves; harmony of the cosmos and scales; colour of sound of musical instruments; generation and perception of musical sound. Acquaintance with musical notation is advantageous. May not be taken for credit by students in the Faculty of Science.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2065A/B - Going Faster and Farther: the Science of the Sporting Environment
The athlete’s goal is typically to go faster or throw farther than the competition. This course will highlight examples in many different sports where an understanding of physical principles has helped in “cheating” the wind or the water to improve performance.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2070A/B - Understanding Earth's Atmosphere
This course examines the atmosphere in which we live, how it affects our everyday life, and how we in turn, as the technologically dominant earth-borne species, affect it. Atmospheric phenomena such as wind, temperature, composition, precipitation and electricity are used to illustrate basic physical principles. Suitable for non-science students.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 2700A/B.
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2101A/B - Physics II
The physics of electromagnetic fields, including Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves, is studied with emphasis on practical calculations. Modern physics is introduced via Special Relativity.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Physics 1020 or 1024 or 1026, or a minimum average of 80% in Physics 1028A/B and 1029A/B; a minimum mark of 60% in each of (Calculus 1000A/B or 1100A/B) and (Calculus 1301A/B or 1501A/B), or in Applied Mathematics 1413.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2102A/B - Physics III
Introduction to quantum mechanics, wave-particle duality, atomic physics, nuclear physics, particle physics and the origins of the universe.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Physics 1020 or 1024 or 1026, or a minimum average of 80% in Physics 1028A/B and 1029A/B; a minimum mark of 60% in each of (Calculus 1000A/B or 1100A/B) and (Calculus 1301A/B or 1501A/B), or in Applied Mathematics 1413.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2128A/B - Fundamental Concepts of Medical Imaging
Fundamental concepts in medical imaging, including atomic physics, nuclear physics, and sound and electromagnetic waves. These topics will be discussed with an emphasis on basic medical sciences applications, including their role in X–ray computed tomography, mammography, positron emission tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1024, 1026, 2101A/B, 2102A/B, 2600A/B, the former Physics 222a/b, Medical Biophysics 2128A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Note: The sequence Physics 1028A/B, 1029A/B, 2128A/B, 2129A/B is a suitable prerequisite for third-year courses for which Physics 2101A/B, 2102A/B are a prerequisite.
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Physics 2129A/B - Research and Problem Solving Techniques in Biophysics
Research and problem–solving strategies are applied to topics in biophysics. These include vector principles, molecular spectroscopy and lasers, advanced microscopy with a focus on methodology and resolution, non–equilibrium effects at membranes and in homeostasis with an overview of the role of partial derivatives, data and error analysis.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 1020, 1024, 1026, 2101A/B, 2102A/B, the former Physics 222a/b, Medical Biophysics 2129A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Note: The sequence Physics 1028A/B, 1029A/B, 2128A/B, 2129A/B is a suitable prerequisite for third-year courses for which Physics 2101A/B, 2102A/B are a prerequisite.
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Physics 2600A/B - Introduction to Medical Physics
Physical principles and experimental techniques applied to medicine and biology. Application of x-rays and gamma rays in medical diagnosis and therapy. Physical principles of lasers, ultrasound, and magnetic fields in mapping structures, identifying functions, diagnosis and therapy of the human body. Site visits may be made to important medical centers.
Antirequisite(s): Medical Biophysics 4475A/B.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2700A/B - Introduction to Planetary Atmospheres
Basic physical principles are used to investigate the dynamics, thermodynamics and composition of planetary atmospheres. Further insight in earth's atmosphere will be gained by comparisons with other planetary atmospheres.
Antirequisite(s): Physics 2070A/B.
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Physics 1020 or 1024 or 1026, or in each of Physics 1028A/B and 1029A/B; a minimum mark of 60% in each of (Calculus 1000A/B or 1100A/B) and (Calculus 1301A/B or 1501A/B), or in Applied Mathematics 1413.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2800 - Introduction to Materials Science
The structure and properties of materials are described in terms of their crystal structures and interatomic bonding. The basic physical principles underlying mechanical, thermal, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties are discussed in the context of modern materials including polymers and semiconductors.
Antirequisite(s): Materials Science 2800.
Prerequisite(s): (Calculus 1000A/B or 1100A/B), and (Calculus 1301A/B or 1501A/B), or Applied Mathematics 1413; Chemistry 1050, or the former Chemistry 1020, 023; Physics 1020, 1024, 1026, or (Physics 1028A/B and 1029A/B).
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
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Physics 2900E - Intermediate Physics Laboratory
Students will gain a thorough introduction to experimental methods through experiments on electricity and magnetism, thermal physics, optics and modern physics.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): A minimum mark of 60% in Physics 1020 or 1024 or 1026, or a minimum average of 80% in Physics 1028A/B and 1029A/B; a minimum mark of 60% in each of (Calculus 1000A/B or 1100A/B) and (Calculus 1301A/B or 1501A/B), or in Applied Mathematics 1413. 
Corequisite(s): Physics 2101A/B and 2102A/B.
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 4 laboratory hours, 1.0 course.
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Physics 2930A/B - Special Topics in Physics.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 2950Y - Year Two Seminar
A forum for students to meet the third and fourth year students and faculty in an informal setting. We will discuss research areas, practise giving and critiquing talks, and provide information on careers.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1 lecture hour, 0.5 course, non-credit.
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Physics 3151A/B - Classical Mechanics I
This course provides students with the tools to tackle more complex problems than those covered in introductory mechanics. D'Alembert's principle, principle of least action, Lagrange's equations, Hamilton's equations, Poisson brackets, canonical transformations, central forces, rigid bodies, oscillations. Optional topics including: special relativity, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, constrained systems, field theory.
Antirequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 3151A/B.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3200A/B - Quantum Mechanics I
The Schrodinger equation in one dimension, wave packets, stationary states, the harmonic oscillator, the postulates of Quantum Mechanics, operators and eigenvalue equations, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom.
Antirequisite(s): Chemistry 3374A/B.  
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2101A/B and 2102A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3300A/B - Electromagnetic Theory I
A study of static electric and magnetic fields using vector calculus; time varying electric and magnetic fields, Maxwell's equations and solutions; wave propagation in continuous and discontinuous media, wave guides; retarded potentials, radiation.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2101A/B and 2102A/B .
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3380A/B - Optics and Photonics
An introduction to the principles of optics and modern optical devices. Topics include geometrical optics, interference, diffraction, reflection, transmission, and polarization, modulation of light waves, fiber-optical light guides, optical communication systems, integrated optics.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3400A/B - Introduction to Thermal Physics
Thermodynamics applied to classical and quantum systems. Thermodynamic laws, interactions, engines, phase transformations of pure substances, Boltzmann statistics, simple quantum systems.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2101A/B and 2102A/B, Physics 2900E.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3809A/B - Biological Materials
Composition of biomaterials: chemical bonds, functional groups; water: pH, buffer; DNA: genetic code, amino acids; proteins: primary,  secondary, tertiary structure; lipids: phase diagrams, monolayers, LB technology, double layers, biomembranes, function, physical properties, electrical properties, Gouy-Chapman theory, Nernst potential, transport proteins; the cell: energy and energy storage, muscle and nerve cells.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2800 or Materials Science 2800, Chemistry 1050 or the former Chemistry 1020, 023.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3900F/G/Z - Senior Physics Laboratory
A senior physics laboratory designed to familiarize the student with the basic concepts of modern physics, with emphasis on the development of experimental skills and including an introduction to computer programming and its use in experimental analysis.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2900E.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 6 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3926F/G - Computer Simulations in Physics
A project oriented computation course using applications of numerical methods to problems in medical physics, science of materials, atmospheric physics and astrophysics. Projects will involve choosing a physical problem, posing scientific questions, and implementing a computer simulation. Techniques for programming, analysis, and presentation will be developed.
Antirequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 3911F/G.
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2101A/B and 2102A/B; Physics 2900E; Calculus 2303A/B or 2503A/B or the former Applied Mathematics 291b.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3930A/B - Special Topics in Physics.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 3950Y - Year Three Seminar
A forum for students to meet the second and fourth year students and faculty in an informal setting. We will discuss research areas, practise giving and critiquing talks, and provide information on careers.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1 lecture hour, 0.5 course, non-credit.
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Physics 4251A/B - Quantum Physics II
Potential scattering, spin, addition of angular momenta, stationary and time-dependent perturbation theory, systems of identical particles, applications to atomic, molecular, solid state, nuclear, particle and atmospheric physics.
Antirequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 4251A, the former Physics 352a/b.
Prerequisite(s): Physics 3200A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4351A/B - Electromagenetic Theory II
Static fields (Green's functions); time varying fields; Maxwell's equations, conservation laws; nonrelativistic motion of particles in static, uniform external fields; Rutherford scattering; plane waves; simple radiating systems; fields of a moving charge; relativistic formulation.
Antirequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 4351A.  
Prerequisite(s): Physics 3300A/B.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4551A/B - Introduction to Elementary Particles
Phenomenology; conservation laws and invariance principles; analysis of reactions and decays; the identification of particles; the particle spectrum; unitary symmetry; quarks; models of strong interaction dynamics.
Antirequisite(s): Applied Mathematics 4551A/B  
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4662A/B - Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Concepts from electromagnetic theory, quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics will be applied to illuminate the principles and techniques of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Applications of NMR to materials science, chemistry, and medicine will be discussed.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Physics 2102A/B or Physics 2129A/B or Medical Biophysics 2129A/B, or permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4672A/B - Radiological Physics
An introduction to the instrumentation and techniques of radiation therapy.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s): Physics 3300A/B.
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4810A/B - Electronic Materials and Devices
An introduction to the principles governing modern electronic devices. Topics include crystal structure (lattices, reciprocal lattices, X-ray diffraction), lattice vibrations (phonons, thermal properties), metals (free-electron model, energy bands), semiconductors (band gaps, mobility, doping), and semiconductor devices (diodes, transistors, device fabrication).
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4850A/B - Nanomaterials
Synthesis, properties, characterization and application of materials structured on the nanometer scale. Fabrication methods including epitaxy, lithography, and self-assembly. Optical and electronic properties of nanomaterials including carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, nanoparticles. Interaction with electrons and photons. Characterization methods, including electron microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, plasmon resonance.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4930A/B - Special Topics in Physics
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4931A/B - Special Topics in Physics
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
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Physics 4950Y - Year Four Seminar
A forum for students to meet the second and third year students and faculty in an informal setting. We will discuss research areas, practise giving and critiquing talks, and provide information on careers.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1 lecture hour, 0.5 course, non credit.
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Physics 4999E - Honors Research
The student will work on a research project, either experimental or theoretical, under faculty supervision, and present the results in a written report and in a seminar.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Registration in the fourth year of an honors Physics program.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1.0 course.
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Academic Calendar 2009 UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION Physics (S)
Decision Academic