Physics and Astronomy Courses

The course descriptions are below. The faculty are using free textbooks and are developing an open textbook on astrobiology, laboratory manuals and homework and assignments. To go directly to the courses, use these links:

SCP 101 – Topics in Physics

Students will participate in authentic undergraduate research experiences to learn techniques commonly performed in a biological laboratory, such as micropipetting, isolation and quantification of nucleic acids and proteins, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), immunodetection and gel electrophoresis. Students will also learn about data analysis, responsible conduct of research, communicating science and reflect on the impact of biotechniques on society. Prerequisites: ENG101, MAT112 or MAT115, SCB201, SCC201. 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

SCP 105 – Life in the Universe

This class explores the possibility that life exists elsewhere in the Universe. To investigate this topic, it is necessary to define what we mean by life and then discuss its origins and evolution. Topics covered in the course include identifying potential worlds where life could thrive, the properties of stars that could host habitable worlds, interstellar travel, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Prerequisites: CSE099, ENA/ENG099, ESA099, ENC101, MAT096. 3 credits; 3 hours

SCP 140 – Topics in Astronomy

This course surveys modern astronomy with special emphasis on recent developments in space and astrophysics. Among the topics to be covered will be planetary astronomy and geology, the moon, the possibility of life on other worlds, energy production in stars, stellar evolution, pulsars, quasars, “black holes,” and cosmology. Laboratory periods will include field trips to planetariums and observatories in the N.Y.C. area. Prerequisites: CSE099, ENA/ENG/ESA099, MAT09. 3 credits; 3 hours (2 lecture, 1 lab)

SCP 201 – Fundamental of Physics I

SCP201 Fundamentals of Physics I is the first semester of a two-semester sequence covering the basic laws of physics with an emphasis on laboratory experience and mathematical solutions of problems. This is a basic course for students intending to continue their studies in the physical and biological sciences, since more advanced courses in the natural sciences assume knowledge of this material. Among the topics studied are: SCP201: The basic concepts of mechanics; kinematics; Newton’s gravitation; conservation of momentum and energy; heat, emphasizing the kinetic theory; and electrostatics (charge, forces, fields, electrical energy. Prerequisites for SCP201: CSE099, ENA/ENG/ESA099, MAT096. 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCP 202 – Fundamental of Physics II

SCP202 Fundamentals of Physics II is the second semester of a two-semester sequence covering the basic laws of physics with an emphasis on laboratory experience and mathematical solutions of problems. This is a basic course for students intending to continue their studies in the physical and biological sciences, since more advanced courses in the natural sciences assume knowledge of this material. Among the topics studied are: basic concepts of electrodynamics (currents and magnetism, electromagnetism); optics (wave theory, lenses); and modern physics (relativity, atomic theory, quantum mechanics.) Prerequisites: SCP201. 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCP 231 General Physics I Honors

This is the first part of a two-part calculus-based physics sequence intended for students majoring in science, computer science or engineering. Topics covered include vectors, Newton’s laws, equilibrium, rectilinear motion, 2- dimensional motion, gravitation, Kepler’s laws, work and the work-energy theorem, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, fluids and heat. Laboratory exercises will use computers in conjunction with traditional equipment for problem solving, data collection, and analysis. Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World”. Prerequisites: ENA/ENG101, MAT2016. 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

SCP 232 General Physics II Honors

This is the second part of a two-part calculus-based physics sequence for science, computer science or engineering students. Topics include waves, wave motion, light propagation, Geometrical optics, interference and diffraction, electric field and potential, capacitance and dielectrics, magnetic fields and forces, direct and alternating current, Ohm’s law and electromagnetic waves. Laboratory exercises will use computers with traditional equipment for problem solving, data collection and analysis Fulfills “Pathways: Flexible Core-Scientific World”. Prerequisites: MAT202, SCP231. 4 credits; 6 hours (3 lecture, 3 lab)

Source for course description: LAGCC College 2020-21 Catalog

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