PHYS 1501 Foundations of Physics II
Recommended laboratory (optional): PHYS2050-2051.. Second semester of the two-semester algebra-based introductory physics course sequence primarily for non-science majors. This course is similar to PHYS2101 in pace and content but with less emphasis on mathematical technique. Topics to be covered are fundamentals of electrostatics, simple electrical circuits, magnetism, electromagnetism, electromagnetic oscillations and waves, physical optics, and, if time allows, basic concepts and applications of special relativity and quantum physics.
Course overview
- Department
- Physics
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Offered
- Every Spring
Catalog details
- Satisfies core
- Natural Science
Requirements fulfilled
- University Core: Natural Science (All undergraduates)
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 2.78 / 5 · Good
- Instructor rating
- 3.03 / 5 · Good
- Terms evaluated
- 6
| Term | Instructor | Course overall | Instructor overall | Well organized | Clear learning objectives | Intellectually challenging | Helpful assignments | Applicable beyond course | Attendance necessary | Weekly effort | Responses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Michael Naughton | 2.9 | 3.0 | 3.6 | 3.7 | 4.7 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 3.7 | 4–6 hrs/week | 65 of 72 |
| Summer 2025 | Alexander Auner | 4.2 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4–6 hrs/week | 5 of 5 |
| Spring 2025 | Michael Naughton | 3.1 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 3.9 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 3.9 | 3.9 | 4–6 hrs/week | 46 of 52 |
| Spring 2024 | Michael Naughton | 2.9 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 3.8 | 4–6 hrs/week | 49 of 56 |
| Spring 2023 | Michael Naughton | 2.8 | 3.4 | 3.6 | 3.6 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 3.6 | 4–6 hrs/week | 38 of 47 |
| Spring 2022 | Kevin Bedell | 1.7 | 1.9 | 2.2 | 2.2 | 3.5 | 3.1 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 4–6 hrs/week | 33 of 59 |
Data freshness
Instructors
Sections
- Section 01
- Section 01