Syllabus

Syllabus Modules Schedule Assignments

Physics 514,  Problems in Theoretical Physics II, Spring 2013

Physics 514 is a Web-based physics course for first-year graduate students at UTK and UTSI.  The physical concepts, principles, and relations introduced in junior/senior-level physics classes are reviewed as students analyze and solve simple and advanced physics problems.  Many of the problems to be analyzed and solved involve multiple core physics concepts.  Physics 514 uses Web-based class modules and textbooks.  It is a three-hour course.  Registered students meet once each week for in-class discussions.  Students must complete a weekly homework assignment.

Instructor:
Marianne Breinig (Physics)
Office: 202 Nielsen Physics Bldg.
Office Hours: MF 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM, W 12:45 PM - 1:35 PM
Phone: 974-7842
Email: mbreinig@utk.edu
Texts:
Web-based class modules
Benjamin F. Bayman, Morton Hamermesh: A Review of Undergraduate Physics
Any junior/senior level Electrodynamics textbook for review of selected topics
Example: David J. Griffiths: Introduction to Electrodynamics
Any junior/senior level Quantum Mechanics textbook for review of selected topics
Example: David J. Griffiths: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
Class Structure:
The Web-based material is divided into 13 modules.  Each modules has a physics theme.  It reviews concepts and formulas associated with this theme and presents 10 solved problems.  Students are expected to work through the modules and, if necessary, the corresponding material in a textbook before each scheduled class meeting and hand in homework assignments on time.  Students are encouraged to form study groups, but should then produce and hand in their own solutions to the homework problems.
Registered students meet Wednesdays, 11:15 AM - 12:30 PM for in-class discussions.  Questions about the material covered in the Web-based modules and the reading assignments will be addressed during these meetings, and students will solve additional problems individually or in groups.
Discussion schedule
Homework assignments:
Homework assignments are based on the material covered in the Web-based modules and in the textbook.  Students are expected to submit the assignments associated with each module on time.  There are 13 homework assignments.  Expect to solve approximately one problem per day.
Assignment schedule
Exams:
There will be one proctored exam during the week March 4 - 8, and a final exam during the exam period on Wednesday, May 1, 11:15 am.  The exams are based on the material covered in the Web-based modules and the reading assignments.
Grades:
Each exam is worth a maximum of 50 points.  The homework assignments are worth a maximum of 100 points.
180 and above    90% and above    A
170-179 85% - 89% B+
160-169 80% - 84% B
150-159 75% - 79% C+
140-149 70% - 74% C
120-139 60% - 69% D
Announcements:
Special announcements appear on Blackboard.

If you need course adaptations or accommodations because of a documented disability, please contact the Office of Disability Services (ODS). This will ensure that you are properly registered for the services provided by ODS.

Disability Services
2227 Dunford Hall
Knoxville, TN 37996-4020
Phone: (865) 974-6087 (v/tty)
Fax: (865) 974-9552
Email: ods@utk.edu
Website: http://ods.utk.edu/