PSCI 1010 Principles of Physical Science

4 (3 lecture hours; 3 lab hours) Credit Hour(s)

This course is for non-science majors. The scientific process will be explored and applied to questions in the physical sciences.

General Education Learning Outcomes (TBR Approved)

Use Scientific principles to apply experimental techniques, make observational analyses, interpret experimental results, and draw logical conclusions.
Describe the natural and/or physical world using basic scientific language and processes.
Apply scientific principles to address problems or issues in the natural and/or physical world.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Use scientific notation in problem solving.
Describe scientific notation.
Define vector quantities.
Use trigonometric functions to define vectors.
Convert between English and metric units.
Define motion and its components.
Relate motion to speed, velocity, acceleration, and free fall.
Distinguish between a vector and a scalar quantity.
Define Newton’s three laws of motion.
Use the conservation of momentum in problem solving.
Use the conservation of energy in problem solving.
Define and discuss gravity.
Define and discuss projectile motion.
Define and discuss satellite motion.
Describe tides.
Define weight.
Describe weightlessness.
Define and discuss escape velocity.
Relate buoyancy in a liquid and Archimedes’ Principle.
Relate buoyancy in a gas and Bernoulli’s Principle.
Define and discuss the First Law of Thermodynamics.
Define and discuss the Second Laws of Thermodynamics.
Discuss Entropy.
Define and discuss electricity.
Relate the various characteristics of electricity.
Define and discuss magnetism.
Relate the various characteristics of magnetism.
Describe sound waves.
Discuss sound waves.
Relate the various types of wave motion.
Distinguish between reflection and refraction.
Define and discuss forced vibrations.
Define and discuss resonance.
Define and discuss the Doppler Effect.
Define and discuss musical sounds.
Discuss light waves and how they relate to Electromagnetic waves.
Discuss the color of light.
Discuss atomic structure.
Define and discuss the basic parts of an atom.
Discuss nuclear energy.
Define alpha particles
Define beta particles
Define Gamma rays

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 0810 and READ 0810 or equivalent.