Physics, broadly the study of motion and interaction in nature, captivates as much as it bemuses. As a centuries old “hot topic,” physics today is filled with thriving research in quantum information, cosmology, planetary astrophysics, nonlinear dynamics, and countless others subfields. Yet the subject is often cloaked with inaccessible jargon, with the big picture ideas obscured behind seemingly insurmountable prerequisites and confounding pseudoscience. In this class, we qualitatively summarize the broad and vibrant landscape of physics as it is today.
Expect from the course an understanding of the fascinating questions asked (and sometimes answered) by physicists and astronomers throughout history, and an ability to confront contemporary popular science headlines with informed excitement and skepticism.
There are no math or physics prerequisites at all, just healthy curiosity and a willingness to ask questions!
To enroll, use the CCN 23898. Then, if necessary, email us at ucb.beginners.guide@gmail.com to obtain a permission code. Sign up on CalCentral with these, and make sure to select TWO (2) units.
Lectures will be in-person at 6:00-7:30pm PT on Tuesdays in Campbell 131. Discussion will also be in-person and you will choose EITHER 5-6 pm PT OR 6-7 pm PT Thursdays (both in Campbell 121). Note the discussion times are still tentative, pending departmental approval.
Our complete syllabus is in the attached files section.
Section | Facilitator | Size | Location | Time | Starts | Status | CCN(LD) | CCN(UD) |
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Lecture | Orion Ning, Siddhant Mal, Hannah Lykes, Christian Ramos | __ | 131 Campbell | [Tu] 6:00PM-7:30PM | Week of 01/25/22 | Open | -- | -- |
Discussion Option 1 | __ | __ | 121 Campbell | [Th] 5:00PM-6:00PM | Week of 01/25/22 | Open | -- | -- |
Discussion Option 2 | __ | __ | 121 Campbell | [Th] 6:00PM-7:00PM | Week of 01/25/22 | Open | -- | -- |
Name | Download Link | ||
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Course Syllabus | Download |