Mar 28, 2024  
2013-2014 Academic Catalog 
    
2013-2014 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PHY 180-01 - Bridges, Towers & Skyscrapers (Spring)

4 credits (Spring)


This course will begin on January 13, one week before the spring semester, with an intensive introduction to the physical principles used to analyze structures and the materials they are made from. Then, during the first eight weeks of the semester, the class will meet three times a week, working through case studies to learn how to analyze common structural features. During that time, each student will prepare a paper analyzing one major structure in the UK, chosen from a list. The class will travel to the UK during spring break to visit those structures. Each student will present a talk at his or her structure, introducing the class to its history, design, and function; then, the group will tour the structure with the goal to record interesting and unexpected design features. During the last six weeks of the semester, the class will meet less frequently, once or twice per week. During that time, students will revise their papers and prepare posters on their structures to share with the campus community in a poster session. Because of the course-embedded travel, students will be required to pay a $400 deposit to register for the course (other required travel expenses will be covered). Participation in the spring break travel to the UK is required of all students in the course.

 

Prerequisite: MAT 124  or MAT 131 .
Instructor: Cunningham