Phys 117 B is the second semester of the 117 introductory
sequence in general physics. Due to the nature of the topics covered,
this semester will require a bit more calculus than used in the first
semester. The course is designed for pre-med students in that it
covers all topics in physics that are on the MCAT. The course is
appropriate for other pre-professional students, pre-physical therapy,
pre-dental, pre-architecture, pre-law, etc. Engineering students should
take the Phys 116 AB sequence, but Phys 117 AB may be substituted if
necessary. Physics majors should take the Phys 121 AB sequence. Phys
121 AB is a five hour course which, in addition to physics majors, is
appropriate for any student who has a strong interest in physics.
Physics is the science of the natural word that studies the fundamental
constituents of the Universe and the forces between them. As all of
science, it is a discipline
based upon confronting conjecture with observation and measurement.
Physics is a so-called "hard science" in that typically its
conjectures are mathematical and its observations are quantitative and
numerical. The
study of physics requires each student to master a style of reasoning
in which only a few mathematical conjectures can be shown to have
precise, provable, and calculable consequences. The acquisition of
this skill is the highest goal of the course.
Overview 
Syllabus 