What is Physics?

Physics is the study of matter and energy and their interactions.  The fundamental ideas of physics underlie all of the basic sciences---astronomy, biology, chemistry, and geology---and all of applied sciences and engineering.  Physicists explore a range of natural phenomenon from an understanding of the forces of electricity, magnetism, and gravity, to an examination of the structure within the proton, to the birth of the universe.  Their discoveries and inventions, like the transistor and the laser, have changed the way we live.  Recent developments in Physics have led to products such as the compact disc player, magnetic resonance imaging, ultra fast computers, and ultra strong materials

Physicists study everything from the dynamics of the grains of sand on a beach to the formation of galaxies, from elementary particles to semiconductors, from fiber optics to computers.  Physics is an experimental science, with nature remaining the ultimate authority on the correctness of any theory. 

The Lee College Physics Department offers three families of courses to meet the needs of different college and transfer programs:  General Physics (PHYS 1405 and 1407), College Physics (PHYS 1401 and 1402), and Calculus-Based Physics (PHYS 2425 and 2426). 

PHYS 1405 and 1407 emphasize the understanding of fundamental concepts in physics.  Basic mathematical concepts are used to solve problems.  These courses cover fundamental physics topics: mechanics, solids, fluids, heat, wave motion, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics.  These courses are typically taken by students completing an applied science degree or certificate as well as liberal arts majors.

PHYS 1401 and 1402 (algebra-based physics, often called College Physics) form a two-semester sequence that covers the traditional physics topics of mechanics, solids, fluids, heat, wave motion, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics.  These courses are typically taken by students who plan to further their education in fields including science, medicine, and computer information systems.  The prerequisite for PHYS 1401 is College Algebra (MATH 1414).  PHYS 1401 is a prerequisite for PHYS 1402.