Course Overview

General Introduction

This course introduces fundamental principles of physics with an emphasis on their application to biological systems. Physics influences everything from the way biological molecules work to the structure of whole organisms and the analysis of physical data in biology.

• Physics in Biology: Physics provides a framework for understanding biological phenomena, from molecular to organismal levels.

• Analytical Skills: The course aims to develop your ability to analyze and solve a variety of problems using physical ideas.

• Scientific Method: Emphasis is placed on the process of scientific thinking, including making mistakes and learning from them.

Additional info: The course is designed to help students appreciate the role of physics in real-world biological contexts and to develop problem-solving skills applicable to a range of scientific disciplines.

Course Learning Objectives

• Develop a basic understanding of electric and magnetic interactions.

• Describe and analyze basic concepts like fields, forces, and energy in physical and biological systems.

• Apply physics concepts to solve problems and develop systematic approaches to new challenges.

• Explore additional topics such as waves, light, optics, and mirrors/lenses.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for how physics describes a variety of natural phenomena and its importance in other scientific disciplines.

Course Structure and Assessment

Assessment Categories

Your grade will be based on the following components:

Homework

• Weekly assignments using the Mastering Physics online system.

• Each assignment typically contains 15 questions, ranging from conceptual to calculation-based problems.

• You have 4 attempts per question; only the best attempt counts.

• Homework is due Wednesdays at 11:59pm.

Group Work Problems

• Weekly discussion section activities focused on collaborative problem-solving.

• Graded on participation and accuracy.

• Emphasis on explaining reasoning and discussing solutions with peers.

Exams

• Three midterm exams: September 17, October 8, October 29.

• Final exam: Thursday, December 18, 1:30pm – 3:30pm.

• Exams cover material from lectures, homework, and group work.

• Calculators are allowed, but not all questions are purely computational.

Textbook and Homework Platform

• Textbook: Physics: Principles with Applications, 7th Edition by Douglas Giancoli (recommended, not required for graded assignments).

• All homework is assigned via Mastering Physics (online platform).

• Access to Mastering Physics is required; purchase options are available through the bookstore or online.

Learning Strategies and Success Tips

Learning Can Be Hard

• Physics requires practice and a willingness to make and learn from mistakes.

• Active participation in class and group work is encouraged.

• Review notes and mentally recap what you have learned after each class.

Advice from Former Students

• Go through homework problems before class and seek help if needed.

• Practice using equations and understanding their application.

• Group worksheets are helpful for understanding different problem types.

• Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing formulas.

• Practice regularly; progress comes with consistent effort.

Course Policies

• Attendance: Strongly recommended for success; required for group work.

• Calculators: Allowed for exams and homework; must be used appropriately.

• Makeup Work: Notify the instructor as soon as possible for excused absences.

• Late Assignments: Generally not accepted except for documented emergencies.

• Academic Honesty: Adherence to the university's policy is required. Academic misconduct includes plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, and using unauthorized materials.

• Religious Observance: Accommodations are available for religious holidays with advance notice.

• Disabilities: Contact the instructor and the Accessibility and Disability Resource Center for accommodations.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Electric and Magnetic Interactions: Fundamental forces that govern the behavior of charged particles and magnetic materials.

• Fields: Physical quantities represented by a value at every point in space (e.g., electric field, magnetic field).

• Forces: Interactions that cause changes in motion, described by Newton's laws.

• Energy: The capacity to do work; includes kinetic, potential, and other forms relevant to biological systems.

• Waves and Optics: Study of light, sound, and their interactions with matter.

Example: Application of Physics in Biology

• Example: Understanding how nerve impulses travel along neurons involves concepts of electric fields and potential differences across cell membranes.

• Formula: The electric potential difference () across a membrane can be described by: where is the current and is the resistance of the membrane.

Summary Table: Assessment Breakdown

Additional info: The course emphasizes not only content mastery but also the development of scientific thinking, collaboration, and effective study habits. Students are encouraged to seek help, participate actively, and approach challenges with persistence.