This course ordinarily forms the first part of the college sequence that serves as the foundation in physics for students majoring in the physical sciences or engineering. The sequence is parallel to or preceded by mathematics courses that include calculus. Methods of calculus are used wherever appropriate in formulating physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. The sequence is more intensive and analytic than that in the B course. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems, some requiring calculus. The subject matter of the C course is principally mechanics and electricity and magnetism, with approximately equal emphasis on these two areas. The C course is the first part of a sequence which in college is sometimes a very intensive one-year course but often extends over one and one-half to two years, with a laboratory component.

Prerequisite: PHYS 2110. A survey of physics for students majoring in technical fields, such as physics, chemistry, engineering, etc. Students in pre-professional studies (pre-med, pre-dentistry, etc.) who desire a stronger preparation for professional school also can take this course. Topics include classical electromagnetism and optics. One semester of calculus is required before taking this course. Heavy emphasis is made for the solutions to numerical problems. PHYS 2120 is the second semester of a two-semester sequence in calculus-based classical physics. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory/recitation each week.