Peterborough, Ontario Department of Physics and Astronomy

Tel: 705-748-1011 x 7715 Fax: 705-748-1652 E-Mail: physics@trentu.ca

Web Site: www.trentu.ca/physics

PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY UNDERGRADUATE HANDBOOK 2014-2015 March, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Purpose of the Handbook 2. Introduction 3. Physics and Astronomy Faculty & Staff 4. Trent’s Undergraduate Physics Programs 5. Astronomy courses 6. Year-Abroad Program 7. Course Offerings (table)

Typical course selections Single-Major Programs

Physics Chemical Physics Computing Systems and Physics Mathematical Physics Joint-Major Programs Physics - Mathematics Physics - Geography Physics - Environmental Science Physics - Biology 8. Survival Guide for Physics Courses 9. Academic Counselling 10. Physics Undergraduate Activities 11. Placement Service & Job Opportunities after Graduation 12. Canadian Association of Physicists 13. Prizes and Academic Awards 14. Post Graduate Studies in Physics and Related Fields 15. Further information

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1. PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK This Handbook is intended for the assistance of students who are planning to take Physics and Astronomy courses at Trent. It contains information on the courses and programs offered by the Department, as well as study tips, information on physics careers etc. To facilitate course selection we present for each program a recommended course package where the more appropriate core courses are specified. This Handbook is not intended to replace the Trent University Calendar but to supplement it. Students are advised to read carefully the appropriate sections in the Academic Calendar for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 2. INTRODUCTION Physics is fundamental Physics is concerned with the investigation of the properties of matter and of the changes in these properties when matter interacts with energy in forms such as heat, electricity and radiation. Although commonly regarded as a separate science, physics overlaps the other natural sciences which include astronomy, biology, chemistry, computing, geography, medicine and meteorology. Physics also underlies all branches of engineering; with many of the technological developments such as personal computers, the CT scan, communication satellites and nuclear power that are having a major impact on society today being practical applications of principles and processes that were first studied and developed in physics laboratories. The last few years have been particularly exciting in Physics and Astronomy with important developments in areas such as high-temperature superconductivity, quantum computing and inflationary Big Bang cosmology, to name but a few. Because of the vitality and rapid development of modern Physics and its fundamental importance to technology, the study of Physics provides both a stimulating intellectual challenge and preparation for a wide range of occupations. Areas with employment opportunities for physicists include education, industrial and government research, management, medical physics, and a host of interdisciplinary fields. A survey in 1997 by the Canadian Association of Physicists shows that more than 97% of physics graduates are employed, and 93% of those are using their physics training either directly or indirectly in their work. Physics and Astronomy at Trent Trent’s Department of Physics and Astronomy carries this name because its professors are involved in research and teaching in both of these fields. The most common route to becoming a professional astronomer is to complete a physics BSc first, to provide the broad physics background needed. This degree often includes a few courses in astronomy or astrophysics. What distinguishes Trent's program is its emphasis on small group teaching, its interactive teaching approaches and the flexibility of degrees offered. Each student gets more individual attention from faculty and staff than at larger institutions, particularly in tutorials and laboratory work. Senior students even have the option of being involved in faculty research, and have co-authored a number of publications in research journals in recent years. The Department offers several programs leading to different levels of specialization in the subject. We have a B.Sc. General Degree program (normally three years) intended to give students a solid coverage of basic concepts in Physics to support a career in, for example, applied science, industry, teaching or environmental science. Our B.Sc. Honours program (normally four years) gives a more advanced grounding in the core areas of Physics. It prepares students for research and further study at the MSc and PhD levels in Physics and related fields, for high-school teaching with a specialist's certificate, and for a wide variety of scientific, technological, and administrative careers in business and industry. For students with strong interests in both Physics and another discipline, you can take a single major in Chemical Physics, Computing and Physics or Mathematical Physics, or a joint major (e.g., with Mathematics, Geography, Biology, ERS or Forensics.) Students with a side interest in Physics can take a package of two or three courses in Physics which can serve as a valuable adjunct to a major in another scientific field or in the humanities. Students taking an honours major in another subject may obtain a minor in Physics by completing the requirements for a joint-major general degree in Physics.

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Physics and Astronomy Facilities The Department offices and research labs are located in the Physics Building and the attached Science Complex. The undergraduate teaching laboratories are located in rooms 305 and 317 of the Science Complex.. Our undergraduate laboratories are constantly being modernized and upgraded so as to provide students with up-to-date training with modern instruments and techniques. Honours research projects are carried out in research laboratories adjacent to the offices of Physics and Astronomy Faculty

The Department also provides computer training for students in the Physics programs. A number of computer labs are available for general undergraduate use on campus. Common areas have wireless access to Air Trent. There is increasing emphasis on the use of computers for course work in the second year and beyond. Most Physics courses involve some use of computers, and training for this is included in your physics courses. 3. PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY FACULTY AND STAFF Faculty: Directory & Research Interests Bill Atkinson M.Sc. (U. Alberta), Ph.D. (McMaster). PB 220, 705-748-1011 Ext 7716 Theory of high-temperature superconductivity. E-mail: billatkinson@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Peter Dawson M.Sc. (Trent), Ph.D. (Victoria). PB 321, 705-748-1011 Ext 7628 Stellar populations and galactic structure. E-mail: pdawson@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Dave Patton B. Math (Waterloo), Ph.D. (Victoria), PB 320 705-748-1011 Ext 7462 Galaxy Evolution and Galaxy Mergers E-mail: dpatton@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Suresh Narine B.Sc., M.Sc. (Trent), Ph.D. (Guelph) SC 315, 705-748-1011 Ext 6105 Synthesis of Lipid Derived Biomaterials sureshnarine@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Ralph Shiell B.A.Physics (Oxford),Ph.D.(Newcastle) SC 313, 705-748-1011 Ext 7023 Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics Email: ralphshiell@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Aaron Slepkov Hon. B.Sc. (Brock), M.Sc., Ph.D.(U Alberta) SC 212, 705-748-1011 Ext 6216 Nonlinear photonics, imaging of biomaterials Email: aaronslepkov@trentu.ca

Rachel Wortis B.Sc.(Harvard), M.Sc., Ph.D.(Illinois) PB 326, 705-748-1011 Ext 7714 Superconductivity Theory E-mail: rwortis@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652

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Staff Directory Dave Marshall B.Sc.(Waterloo),Senior Demonstrator, PB 319 705-748-1011 Ext 7461 E-mail: dmarshall@trentu.ca Fax: 705-748-1652 Gina Collins Departmental Secretary, PB 327, 705-748-1011 Ext 7715

Email: gcollins@trentu.ca or physics@trentu.ca Fax: 748-1652 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Emeritus Professors

John Earnshaw Ron Johnson Jim Jury Alan Slavin 4. TRENT’S UNDERGRADUATE PHYSICS PROGRAMS

A. B.Sc. Honours Degree Program: Single and Joint Majors

In the Honours Degree program, (normally 4 years) the twenty required course credits must include a minimum of ten Physics courses for the single major in Physics, or a minimum of seven Physics courses for Physics as a joint major subject. A minimum number of Physics courses is also required for the programs in Chemical Physics, Mathematical Physics, and Computing–and-Physics (see below). To remain in the Honours Program, the student must meet certain grade criteria, as specified in the University Calendar. B. B.Sc. General Degree Program: Single and Joint Majors

In the General degree program, the fifteen course credits required by Trent for graduation must include a minimum of six Physics courses for the single major in Physics, or a minimum of 5 Physics courses for Physics as a joint major subject. In the Chemical Physics program, a minimum of 3 Physics courses is required. Students should bear in mind that University regulations allow only one D grade in a major subject to count for credit towards a degree. To ensure coherence and breadth in both the Honours and General programs, certain core courses in other subjects are designated as required courses. As well, some basic courses in Mathematics are prerequisites for most core Physics courses and are therefore required courses in the Honours and General Physics Programs.

As a rule of thumb, a student who obtains a B or better in PHYS 1001H/1002H should be working towards an Honours Degree. A student with B+ or better and at least a B in MATH 1100Y should be thinking of the possibility of doing an M.Sc. A student with an A in both PHYS 1001H/1002H and MATH 1100Y might be a candidate for a Ph.D. This is intended merely as a guide, but some students are not aware of the possibilities of postgraduate study. Note that some students with grades below B in PHYS 1001H/1002H have dramatically improved their grades in later years and gone on to graduate school. An information session is given each fall by the Graduate Studies office for students in their fourth quarter who are considering graduate studies. More information can be found on their web site www.trentu.ca/graduatestudies.

Physics students accepted to graduate school are normally guaranteed funding which is more than ample to cover living expenses and tuition (see Section 14). Scholarships are also available which can raise a graduate student's income to $25,000/yr or more. Note that the awarding of entrance scholarships to graduate school is usually based on grades in the 2nd and 3rd years of the honours program. A minimum of B+ is typically required for admission to graduate school, and A- typically required to be considered for a major scholarship.

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5. ASTRONOMY COURSES Students majoring in physics may wish to take one of the following courses which, although non-mathematical in their approach, will provide background knowledge which is useful to anyone with an interest in astronomy. PHYS 1510H Introductory Astronomy I: A general science course accessible to all students. Topics include sky phenomena, the history of astronomy, telescopes and detectors, and an exploration of the Solar System. No prerequisite. Excludes PHYS 1500Y . Not to be counted towards a major or minor in Physics. PHYS 1520H Introductory Astronomy II: A general science course accessible to all students. Topics include stars, their properties, structure, and evolution, white dwarfs, novae and supernovae, neutron stars, black holes, galaxies, and cosmology. Prerequisite: PHYS 1510H. Excludes PHYS 1500Y . Not to be counted towards a major or minor in Physics. PHYS–BIOL 3510H – Astrobiology: Life in the Universe An examination of the prospects for extraterrestrial life, based primarily on material from astronomy, biology, and planetary science. Topics include the origin and evolution of life on Earth, extremophiles, the habitability of Mars and Jovian moons, the nature and habitability of exoplanets, SETI, the Drake equation, and the Fermi paradox. Prerequisite: 5.0 university credits including two of BIOL 1020H, BIOL 1030H, PHYS 1510H, and PHYS 1520H. Excludes PHYS 2510H. Not to be counted towards a major or minor in Physics. In addition, PHYS 4520H – Astrophysics: Galaxies and Cosmology are available in 3rd or 4th year and do count towards the required number of physics credits in a physics major or minor. 6. PHYSICS YEAR-ABROAD PROGRAM In our shrinking globe, it is becoming ever more important that students gain some experience outside of Canada. In response to this need to enhance students' career potential, the Trent Physics and Astronomy Department has initiated a program to allow strong physics students to spend their third year studying abroad. The program has been structured to ensure that these students will have the prerequisites necessary to proceed to the final year of the Honours degree on their return. Currently, specific physics exchange agreements have been negotiated with Lancaster and Leeds Universities in England, but Trent University has general exchange agreements with many other institutions. Students will pay full tuition, residence and meal costs at their home institution, and effectively trade places with an exchange student from abroad. Some extra costs are required for travel, health insurance (in some cases), and for accommodation and living expenses during school breaks when residences are closed. These extra costs will be at least $2500. This is a substantial amount of money, but is still a relatively small percentage increase on the roughly $60,000 overall cost of a university degree. To be eligible to go abroad, students must have completed PHYS 1001H/1002H, 2610H , 2620H , 2700H , and Mathematics 1100Y , 1350H , 2110H and 2120H , 2150H , by the end of their second year, with at least a 70% average in these courses. Interested students must inform the Department of their intentions by January 15 of their second year at Trent, and must also apply through the Trent International Program (TIP) by January 31. The Trent physics students who have participated in the program have been unanimous in their enthusiasm for it. Videos on study at Lancaster and Leeds can be seen through the TIP office, Champlain College.

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7. COURSE OFFERINGS The table below gives the expected course offerings in Physics & Astronomy for 2014 – 2017. Courses FA – Fall WI – Winter (Old numbers in brackets)

Normally taken in year

14-15 15-16 16-17

PHYS 1001H/1002H– Introductory physics I & II 1 X X X MATH-PHYS 2150H FA – Ordinary differential equations 2 X X X PHYS-COIS 2250H FA or WI - Electronics 2 or 3 X – -- PHYS-COIS 2310H FA – Computational physics 2 or 3 – X X PHYS 2610H FA – Introductory quantum physics 2 X X X PHYS 2620H WI – Atomic, molecular & nuclear Physics 2 X X X PHYS 2700H WI – Thermal physics 2 X X X PHYS-MATH 3130H FA – Classical mechanics 3 X X X PHYS-MATH 3140H WI – Advanced classical mechanics 3 or 4 X X X MATH-PHYS 3150H FA – Partial differential equations 2 or 3 X X X MATH-PHYS 3160H Methods of applied mathematics 3 X X X PHYS-COIS 3200Y – Electricity & magnetism 3 X X X PHYS 4000Y/4010H– Project course 4 X X X PHYS 4220H WI – Electromagnetic theory 4 X X X PHYS 4240H WI – Modern optics 3 or 4 X – -- PHYS 4310H WI – Condensed matter physics 3 or 4 – X X PHYS 4xxxH Advanced Lab (Pending) 3 or 4 -- X -- PHYS 4520H WI – Astrophysics: Galaxies & cosmology 3 or 4 – X X PHYS 4600Y– Quantum mechanics 4 X X X PHYS 4700H FA – Statistical & thermal physics 4 X X X Courses that do not count directly towards a Physics Major or Minor PHYS-BIOL 1060H – Physics for the life sciences 1 X X X PHYS 1510H/1520H – Introductory astronomy I & II Any X X X PHYS 2090Y – Physical Science for teacher education 2,3,4 X X X PHYS-BIOL 3510H (2510H) – Astrobiology: Life in the universe 2,3,4 X X X TYPICAL COURSE SELECTIONS The following pages list typical course selections for some of the more common Physics programs at Trent. Required courses for the honours degree are underlined. However, it is not intended to limit either your selection or your imagination. A good scientist must appreciate how her/his discipline interfaces with the rest of society. Consequently, the Department strongly recommends that some humanities courses be included as electives in the programs suggested below. Although the programs are listed for a four-quarter honours degree (usually 1 quarter represents 1 year) students can graduate with a General degree after the third quarter. The courses are generally arranged in a quarterly sequence which satisfies prerequisite requirements. However, you must check the Academic Calendar for full details. The letter “Y” after a course number denotes a full course, the letter “H” after a course number denotes a half-course. Required courses are underlined. NOTES: (1) The Physics & Astronomy Department requires MATH 1100Y or MATH 1101Y, MATH 2110H,

2120H and 2150H for a General Degree, and MATH-PHYS 3150H for the Honours Degree. Note that MATH 1350H is a pre/co-requisite for MATH 2110H. (2) Students who wish to teach high school physics can be expected to have at least PHYS 1001H/1002H, 2610H, 2700H , 3130H and 3200Y. PHYS 2250H is strongly recommended. (3) Courses marked * occur in alternate years only.

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Single-Major Programs

Physics This program is normally taken by those students who want a strong Physics training complemented by courses in other disciplines such as Mathematics, Chemistry and Computer Studies. Students who are strong in Physics & Mathematics, and considering doing an MSc or PhD in Physics theory, should consider the Mathematical Physics single-major program.

Typical Course Selection (required courses as of 2012/2013 are underlined) First Quarter PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable MATH 1350H Linear algebra I: Matrix algebra (required as pre or co-requisite for Math 2110H) MATH 2350H Linear algebra II: Vector spaces CHEM 1000H Introductory chemistry I CHEM 1010H Introductory chemistry II 1.0 elective, from the sciences or perhaps the humanities Second Quarter PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, molecular and nuclear Physics MATH-PHYS 2150H Ordinary differential equations PHYS 2700H Thermal physics MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus

2.0 electives, possibly PHYS 2250H* or 2310H*, MATH 2350H†, CHEM 2500H and 2510H, a humanities. Third Quarter PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics PHYS-MATH 3140H Advanced classical mechanics MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equations PHYS 3200Y Electricity and magnetism

1.5 physics credit from 4240H *, 4310H*, 4410H*, 4520H* 1.0 elective. (consider MATH 3770H† or MATH 2180H or MATH 3160H Fourth Quarter

PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H Electromagnetic theory PHYS 4050H Adv. lab. (or PHYS 4000Y or 4010H , Project Course) PHYS 4700H Statistical and thermal physics 0.5 physics credit from 4240H* , 4310H* , 4410H* , 4520H* One full-course elective. † required as pre or co-requisite for required upper year math courses

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Chemical Physics This program was designed for students who want a strong grounding in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, but wish more freedom for outside courses than is possible within a joint-major Physics-Chemistry degree. Typical Course Selection (required courses are underlined) First Quarter CHEM 1000H Introductory chemistry I CHEM 1010H Introductory chemistry II PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable 2.0 electives. Consider MATH 1350H (pre or co-requisite for Math 2110H), MATH 1550H and MATH 2350H. Second Quarter CHEM 2500H Elementary physical chemistry CHEM 2510H Elements of physical chemistry: Thermodynamics MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Differential equations PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, molecular and nuclear Physics 1.5 electives. Concurrent Education students must include CHEM 2100H, 2110H and 2400H for a chemistry teachable.

Third Quarter CHEM 3500H Quantum chemistry and spectroscopy CHEM 3510H Chemical thermodynamics and kinetics PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics PHYS-COIS 3200Y Electricity & magnetism MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equations 1.5 electives. Consider PHYS 3140H, 2250H*, 2301H*, CHEM 4500H* , 4510H* , 4200H* or 4220H*

A 2000 or 3000 level Physics or Chemistry course is the tenth required course for the General Degree. If changing to a single- major General Degree in Physics or Chemistry, consult the department chair before beginning the third quarter. Fourth Quarter PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics Two of CHEM 4500H* , 4510H* , 4100H* , 4220H* or 4400H 2.0 additional credits in CHEM, PHYS or MATH at the 400-level 1.0 additional credit in CHEM, PHYS or MATH PHYS 4220H strongly recommended for students continuing to graduate school. ∙ as noted on page 6

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Computing Systems and Physics The program in Computing Systems and Physics (leading to the honours degree B.Sc. in Computing Systems and Physics) is a sequence of inter-related and mutually-supportive courses offered in the departments of Computer & Information Systems, Mathematics and Physics that compose an integrated whole. It is designed for students with an interest in hardware aspects including computer process control, or quantum computing.

First Quarter PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II COIS 1010H The digital world COIS 1020H Programming for Computer Systems MATH 1100Y or Calculus I: Calculus of one variable MATH 1101Y Calculus I: Functions and calculus of one variable

1.0 electives. Consider MATH 1350H (pre or co-requisite for Math 2110H), MATH 1550H and MATH 2350H. Second Quarter

COIS 2020H Data structures and algorithms COIS 2300H Computer organization COIS 2320H Digital Logic MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Differential equations MATH-COIS 2600H Discrete structures PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, molecular and nuclear Physics

0.5 electives Third Quarter

COIS 3320H Fundamentals of operating systems COIS 3380H Systems programming PHYS-COIS 3200Y Electricity & magnetism MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equations 2 electives. Consider PHYS 2250H*, 2301H* , COIS 3400H, 4400H, or 4470H Fourth Quarter PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics One of COIS 4310H, 4320H or 4350H One of PHYS 4420H, 4240H, 4310H, 4410H, 4510H or 4700H 4.0 electives †Should be taken by students continuing to graduate work in Physics. PHYS 2700H is a prerequisite for PHYS 4310H and 4700H .

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Mathematical Physics Physics is the most fundamental of the natural sciences, and mathematics is the language of physics. This program develops, in parallel, experience with the central theoretical frame-works of physics and facility with mathematical methods which form the foundation and tools of physics.

This single-major program was designed specifically for students who want to apply their strong mathematical aptitude in the exploration of the ideas of physics. It is excellent preparation for graduate work.

First quarter

PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable MATH 1350H Linear algebra I : Matrix algebra MATH 1550H Introduction to probability

2.0 electives, possibly COIS 1010H , COIS 1020H, CHEM 1000H and 1010H , or from the humanities

Second quarter PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, molecular and nuclear physics PHYS 2700H Thermal physics MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Ordinary differential equations MATH 2350H Linear algebra II

1.0 elective from PHYS-COIS 2310H* or MATH-COIS 2180H

Third quarter PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics PHYS-MATH 3140H Advanced classical mechanics PHYS-COIS 3200Y Electricity and magnetism MATH-PHYS 3160H Methods of applied mathematics MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equations MATH 3770H Complex analysis

1.0 credit# from PHYS 4240H* , 4310H* , 4410H* , 4520H*

One MATH credit# from 4180H, 4160H or reading course (see Calendar for details)

0.5 MATH credit# from 3570H, 4180H , 4160H, 4120H, 4130H , 4710H , 4720H 0.5 elective, depending on credits chosen. Fourth quarter PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H Electromagnetic theory PHYS 4700H Statistical and thermal physics 0.5 credit# from PHYS 4240H* , 4310H* , 4410H* , 4520H* 1.0 MATH credits# from 4180H, 4160H or reading course (see Calendar for details) 0.5 MATH credit# from 3720H , 3570H , 4180H , 4160H , 4120H , 4130H , 4710H , 4720H 1.0 course elective possibly. # Can take in years 3 or 4.

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Joint-Major Programs Students may take a joint major between almost any two programs at Trent; we give a selection of our most popular choices below:

Physics-Mathematics This joint major recognizes the strong link between these two disciplines, and is a natural choice for many Physics students who are already required to take 2 or 3 math courses. It is excellent preparation for graduate work in Physics, especially theoretical physics.

Typical Course Selection Required courses are underlined. 1 credit each is required from two of A, B, C, and 0.5 credit from the remaining category

First quarter

PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable MATH 1350H Linear algebra I : Matrix algebra MATH 2350H (here or 2nd year) Linear algebra II: Vector spaces

2.0 electives, possibly COIS 1010H , COIS 1020H , CHEM 1000H and 1010H , or from the humanities.

Second quarter

PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, Molecular and Nuclear Physics PHYS 2700H Thermal physics MATH 1550H Introduction to probability MATH 2200H Mathematical reasoning MATH 2350H (here or 1st year) Linear algebra II MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H (C) Ordinary Differential equations

0.5 credit from MATH category B (possibly MATH 2260H) 1.0 elective. Consider PHYS-COIS 2250H* or 2310H* , MATH 2180H (C), 3770H (A), 3160H (A,C)

Third quarter

PHYS-MATH 3130H (C) Classical mechanics PHYS-COIS 3200Y Electricity and magnetism MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equations PHYS-MATH 3140H Advanced classical mechanics

PHYS 2250H*(Electronics) or 2310H* (Computational physics) One of MATH 3770H† (A) Complex analysis or 2180H (C) Introduction to numerical and computational methods or 3160H† (A) Methods of applied mathematics 1.0 elective. Fourth quarter

PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H† Electromagnetic theory One of PHYS 4240H* , 4310H* , 4410H* , 4510H* One four-thousand series mathematics credit. One three-or four-thousand series mathematics credit. 1.0 elective. † Strongly recommended for graduate school. Note: 7.5 credits in Math required for joint-major Honours.

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Physics-Geography Students wishing to work in physical geography or geophysics such as climatology or soil transport should consider the joint-major program below. Typical Course Selection Required courses are underlined. Geography categories are in parentheses. Geography categories are labelled A, B, C, E; see calendar. First quarter PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II GEOG 1030H Human geographies in global contexts GEOG 1040H Earth’s physical processes & environments MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable 2.0 electives, possibly from the humanities or MATH 1350H (pre or co-requisite for 2100H) and MATH 1550H, or CHEM 1000H and CHEM 1010H . Second quarter PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, molecular and nuclear physics PHYS 2700H Thermal physics GEOG 2090H Introduction to Geological Information Systems (GIS) GEOG 2080H Natural science statistics GEOG One credit from category (B) – 2400H, 2460H and 2540H MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Differential equations Third quarter PHYS 3200Y Electricity and magnetism PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics GEOG 4090H (D) Modelling applications in physical geography (Sc) MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equation GEOG 1 credit from category C GEOG 0.5 elective 0.5 elective Fourth quarter PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H † Electromagnetic theory GEOG 4010Y, 4020D (D) Honours thesis GEOG 4030Y (E) Community-based research in geography GEOG 4090H Modelling applications in physical Geography 1.0 elective from Physics or Geography † Strongly recommended for graduate school

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Physics-Environmental Science This program is popular with students concerned with the physics aspects of environmental science, such as alternative energy, nuclear radiation or atmospheric physics. Typical Course Selection (required courses are underlined) Refer to the calendar for the required courses in Environmental Science. First quarter PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II ERSC 1000Y Intro. to environmental science/studies MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable CHEM 1000H and 1010H Introductory chemistry I & II 1.0 elective, possibly from the humanities. Consider MATH 1350H prerequisite or co-requisite for 2110H

Second quarter PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, Molecular and Nuclear Physics PHYS 2700H Thermal Physics ERSC 1.0 credits from GEOG-BIOL-ERSC 2080H , GEOG-ERSC 2090H , 2300H ERSC 2220H Environmental assessment: Chemical and laboratory methods ERSC 2230H Environmental assessment: Sampling and analysis ERSC 2240H Ecological assessment for natural resource management MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Differential equations 0.5 elective. Consider PHYS-COIS 2250H* or 2310H* . Third quarter

PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics PHYS-MATH 3140H , PHYS-COIS 2310H*, or PHYS-COIS 2250H* PHYS 3200Y Electricity & magnetism MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equation ERSC 3450H Air pollution chemistry 1.0 credit in Environmental and Resource Studies Fourth quarter

PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H† Electromagnetic theory PHYS 4410H** Nuclear and Particle physics ERSC 4350H Climatic change ERSC courses as required in calendar † Strongly recommended for graduate school in physics.

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Physics-Biology This program is intended for students primarily concerned with the more physical aspects of biology, such as genetics, molecular and cell biology, and radiation damage. Course Selection Required courses are underlined. First quarter PHYS 1001H/1002H Introductory physics I & II BIOL 1020H & 1030H Current Issues in biology I and II MATH 1100Y or 1101Y Calculus I: Calculus/functions and calculus of one variable CHEM 1000H and 1010H Introductory chemistry MATH 1350H Linear algebra I prerequisite or co-requiste for 2110H MATH 1550H Introduction to probability (MATH 2350H recommended for graduate studies in Biophysics) Second quarter PHYS 2610H Introductory quantum physics PHYS 2620H Atomic, Molecular and Nuclear Physics PHYS 2700H Thermal physics MATH 2110H Calculus II: Calculus of several variables MATH 2120H Calculus III: Vector calculus MATH-PHYS 2150H Differential equations BIOL 2000H Methods of biological inquiry BIOL 2050H Introduction to genetics BIOL 2070H Cell Biology ERSC-BIOL 2260H Introductory Ecology BIOL 2600H Evolution Third quarter PHYS-MATH 3130H Classical mechanics PHYS-COIS 3200Y Electricity & magnetism MATH-PHYS 3150H Partial differential equation BIOL 3830H Animal physiology I or BIOL 3840H Animal physiology II BIOL 3040H Histology BIOL-PSYC 3210H Principles of the nervous system BIOL 3080H Molecular biology BIOL 0.5 credit at 3000 or 4000 level 1.0 elective, possibly PHYS 3140H or PHYS-COIS 2250H* or PHYS-COIS 2310H . Fourth quarter PHYS 4600Y Quantum mechanics PHYS 4220H† Electromagnetic theory One of PHYS 4240H* , 4310H* , 4410H* , 4510H* Two Biology courses at the 3000 or 4000-level. Consider BIOL 4080H , 4160H , 4620H, 4840H 0.5 elective. † Strongly recommended for graduate school in physics.

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8. SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PHYSICS COURSES

Physics is the description of physical aspects of nature using the language of mathematics. There are three main steps in this process: (1) collecting the experimental data needed to build and test our models of the world, (2) developing a few fundamental models that can be described mathematically that are at the base of a large number of natural phenomena, and (3) learning to recognize which of these models apply in a given phenomenon and developing a mathematical description for it, beginning with the basic concepts. We are not born with the skills to see and describe the physical world in mathematical terms, and to pass on this information to others. All components of the physics curriculum are designed to help you develop and improve these skills. A) Attend all lectures and tutorials. The main importance of lectures and tutorials is

not the transfer of information, which can often be obtained from your textbook or online. Rather, it is to provide you with an understanding of the basic physical concepts, to develop your “physical intuition” by establishing the connection between equations and reality, and to help you learn the mathematical descriptions of phenomena. The instructor has spent years developing his/her ability in these areas, and interaction with the instructor is a crucial “apprenticeship program” for passing on these skills.

B) Hand everything in, and on time. The importance of this cannot be overstated. This is not high school; marks are deducted for late assignments. Even if you have not completed an assignment, hand it in. Some marks are better than no marks, and making an assignment late by one day to improve the grade by 10% makes no sense if you lose 20% for lateness. Typically each lab report is worth 3 marks of your final grade; one missed lab report can mean going from 71% to 68%, from a B to a C! Most importantly, you must do all the assigned work to master the course material.

C) Do all assigned problems. All assigned physics problems are chosen to improve your skills in this process. As with any new ‘language’, the ability to use physical concepts and mathematics in this way depends as much on practice as on learning the formal rules. “Studying physics” means primarily doing many problems, not rereading the text or lecture notes.

Corollary 1 Do extra problems from your text book in addition to assigned ones. The assigned problems are chosen to cover most of the main parts of the subject, but cannot possibly give you enough practice to become fluent in physics.

Corollary 2 Physics students who work with others on assignments are much more likely to complete the course. While working with other students is an excellent way to develop your understanding and analytical skills, always work through your final solutions independently. This is the only way to be sure that you really know the work. Identify each physical principle you use in solving a problem (e.g. conservation of angular momentum) and know why it applies so you will recognize when to use it again.

Corollary 3 Show clearly the logic of your solution, and define all variables. Most of the marks are for your reasoning, not for the correct answer.

D) Attend all labs and submit all reports. Labs have four main purposes: to help

relate the theoretical concepts to physical reality, to provide experience in using laboratory equipment and collecting experimental data in an orderly way, to develop the skills to work as part of a team, and to provide training in written and oral communication which is a crucial part of most scientific jobs.

E) Always find out where you went wrong in an assignment, and learn how to avoid the mistake in future. The main purpose of tests and of assignments (after practice) is to show you what you do not understand. If you do not use your graded assignments to fix any misunderstanding, you are throwing away marks on the tests and final exam.

F) Do not waste time memorizing more equations than absolutely necessary. The intrinsic beauty of Physics is that you can explain many complex results in terms of a few fundamental concepts. Therefore, you should concentrate on learning only the most basic equations and how to use them to derive more complicated results. Your analytical skills are more important than the ability to only memorize formulae and substitute numbers. Learn to "see" what the math means. For example,

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am = Fnet

means that if you push with a net force netF

on a body of mass m, it accelerates with an

acceleration a in the same direction as netF

, and the acceleration is smaller if the mass is bigger. If you cannot see what the math means, you usually do not understand the physics.

G) Do not be afraid to say that you do not understand. This is exactly the time when you are closest to taking control of the material, since you have identified where difficulty lies. Persevere. Have someone explain it to you one more time from a different perspective. And remember, if you are having trouble with something, your classmates probably are too.

H) Be aware of what each component of the course is worth, and budget your time accordingly. Note that these are time-management skills required for any job, not just physics skills. For example, each lab report is typically worth 3 marks on your final grade. Once you have done what you can reasonably do on a report, it is not good use of time to spend another 5 hours to improve it by 5% (only 0.15% of your final grade). Your time is probably better spent doing extra problems, since your skill here is typically worth a greater fraction of the course marks.

I) Studying for tests and the final exam. The best way to study is to start by making sure that you can do all the questions assigned throughout the course, using just the most basic formulae, since these problems have been chosen to cover the most important areas of the course. Once you have done these problems, work through previous tests and exams. If you can do all problems on the last few exams, in the allotted time, you are virtually guaranteed of a good grade on your final exam.

J) If you are sick or have a serious family situation. If you miss an assignment, test or the final exam because of sickness or a similar good reason, you must obtain a dated note, preferably on letterhead, from some reliable source (e.g. doctor) stating that you were unable to attend, otherwise you will lose the marks for that course component. (Being sick on the day an assignment is due is not a reasonable excuse; being sick for the whole week before is.) The person writing the note does not have to divulge confidential information on the note. If you miss a lab for a good reason, see the lab instructor to arrange a time to do the lab. If you know of an imminent issue, see the instructor beforehand.

K) Take some responsibility for the teaching of the course. If you have an idea that could improve the course, pass it on to the instructors, and write it down on the Course Evaluation at the end of the course. Everyone wants each course to be as good as possible.

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9. ACADEMIC COUNSELLING The typical programs outlined in Section 7 will in many cases provide an adequate guide to the physics courses to be taken. Any significant deviation from these, or decision about which route to follow, should be discussed in detail with the Chair of the Physics & Astronomy Department as early as possible. It is strongly recommended that students try to map out their essential course selections through to the end of the Honours degree by the end of their first year. Of course, changes can be made later, but this guarantees that prerequisites will be met for the chosen route. Note that timetabling conflicts are minimized by taking, for example, only 3000- level courses in a given year, except for courses such as PHYS 2310H and 2250H which alternate and can be taken in and upper year, or PHYS 4310H /4410H/4240H/4520H which also alternate and are accessible to third or fourth years. Students who have questions or concerns about the course work, grading scheme, etc. of a particular course should first discuss the matter with the course instructor. If the problem cannot be resolved in this way, the student should see the Department Chair. 10. PHYSICS UNDERGRADUATE ACTIVITIES (a) Physics Club The Physics Club is organized by student representatives from each year of study. The Club sponsors a variety of social and educational activities, such as public film and video showings, field trips, (including ones to the Buckhorn Observatory, General Electric Research labs and others in the past), meatball sub lunches, trivia nights and the occasional volleyball game. The Physics Club usually sells Physics and Astronomy T-shirts to raise funds to send students to the Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference (see below). The activities of the Physics Society are a very pleasant part of the Physics experience at Trent. (b) Departmental Seminars (throughout the year) The Physics and Chemistry departments organize a joint seminar program in which Physics and Chemistry seminars are presented weekly on an alternating basis throughout the academic year. The seminars are held on Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. and are presented by guest speakers from other institutions as well as by Trent faculty. Although the seminars are intended primarily for faculty, graduate students and senior undergraduate students, all Physics students are encouraged to attend them and to regard them as an integral part of their Physics education. They are a great introduction to possible physics careers. (c) CAP Lecture (March) During March the Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) sponsors a visit to the Department by a well known Physicist from a Canadian University to deliver a talk on her/his research. The CAP Lecture is aimed specifically at undergraduate students. Past CAP lecture topics at Trent have included High Temperature Superconductivity, Quantum Computing, Neutrino Physics and Short-Pulse Lasers. After the talk, the students are invited to have dinner and talk informally with the speaker and the members of the Department. (d) The Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference CUPC (October) This conference is organized by Canadian undergraduate physics students and is held during the fall term at a Canadian University. Papers are presented by invited speakers and by students. The Conference is an opportunity for undergraduate physics students from across the country to meet and discuss topics of interest. The expenses of delegates are covered partly by the Physics Club and the Department. In recent years, the Trent delegation has been one of the largest external contingents to attend. It’s always a great event! (e) CAP University Physics Prize Examination (February) This is an annual examination sponsored by the CAP, based on general knowledge in physics and open to all physics undergraduates at Canadian Universities. The examination is made up of questions chosen from submissions by

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university faculty across the country. The top student in the examination is awarded the Lloyd G. Elliott cash prize as well as an expenses-paid trip to the CAP Annual Congress in June to receive the award. The Department awards a small prize to the top Trent student in the exam. (f) Women and minorities in Physics Women in science have formed groups to share information and support specific to their needs. Four excellent organizations are the Committee to Encourage Women in Physics, a Canadian organization under the auspices of the Canadian Association of Physicists www.cap.ca/prof/cewip/index.html , the Association for Women in Science (www.awis.org), the Committee on the Status of Women in Physics under the American Physical Society (APS) www.aps.org and the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists www.inwes.org For similar reasons, physicists who are members of visible minorities have also established their own organizations. A few of these are the APS Committee on Minorities (found through www.aps.org), the National Society of Black Physicists (www.nsbp.org) and the National Society of Hispanic Physicists (www.hispanicphysicists.org). 11. PLACEMENT SERVICE & JOB OPPORTUNITIES AFTER GRADUATION General information about part-time, full-time and summer employment is available at Trent through the Career Centre, room 204, Champlain College (see http://www.trentu.ca/careers/students/degree.php) Job opportunities for students majoring in Physics programs are received by the Department throughout the year and are usually emailed to students or posted on a bulletin board outside SC 317. The pamphlet "Landing Your First Job" may be borrowed from the Dept. Office at PB 327, and is excellent way for a first or second-year student to start to plan for the future. A booklet of Canadian employers of physicists in Canada is also available at the Office. Physics majors from Trent have pursued a wide range of careers; see www.cap.ca and click on careers. Typical career choices are summarized below. With General Degree -teaching: high school and elementary school. -laboratory technician in government or industry. -a range of technical jobs, such as radiation monitoring, electrical power plant operator, scientific instrument operator -computer programming in industry (eg. aircraft design) -salesperson for technical instruments -municipal noise measurement/enforcement officers -self-employment: eg. electronics/computer development, contracting for installation of acoustic insulation. -continue to law: eg. industrial patents. -radiologist (with additional training; eg. Michener Institute) -proceed to Honours Degree. With Honours Degree -all of the above, but with more job responsibility. e.g. Head of Department at a high school. -some teaching at a community college -business (numerical/computing skills) -meteorology (the study of weather) -proceed to Master's Degree in Engineering (electrical, electronic, mechanical or aerospace), Environmental Science, Architecture. These may require one or two make-up courses. -university Lab Demonstrator -proceed to M.Sc. in Physics

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With M.Sc. in Physics -for main fields, see diagram on last page -many of the above jobs, with more responsibility including supervising technicians, recommending equipment to be purchased. - Principal of a high school -teaching at a community college -field representative/trouble shooter for instrument companies, supervising installations -technical jobs requiring more physics knowledge -proceed to Ph.D. in Physics With Ph.D. -more job responsibility: eg head of an laboratory, supervising several people, planning projects, authorizing purchases, hiring support scientists -university teaching and research -advanced-level research in industry or government -development of new products for industry -design and improvement of scientific instrumentation -stock-market analyst (numerical modelling) -self-employment: scientific consulting for industry or government 12. CANADIAN ASSOCIATION of PHYSICISTS This is the professional organization of physicists in Canada. Among the services to its members are the following: Supports and subsidizes the annual Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference, always attended by some Trent

students. Organizes and subsidizes the annual CAP speaker who comes to Trent to give a lecture on an exciting topic aimed

at undergraduates. This is a great occasion, including a free supper with the speaker for physics students. Free student membership in CAP, including its magazine Physics in Canada. To join, go to http://www.cap.ca

and click on "Membership". Defends against attempts by other professional organizations to restrict the range of work by physicists in Canada. Has created the Professional Physicist certification to provide a credential which is easily recognized by a potential

employer (see below). The Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) has created the professional credential of Professional Physicist (P. Phys) to designate a person with a high level of physics training and experience. It requires an Honours BSc with a single- or joint-major in Physics, and at least three years of relevant experience. Physics Certification as a Professional Physicist is an important addition to your personal credentials. Your university education demonstrates your knowledge as a scientist, but you need to show that you have sufficient communications proficiency and outside-the-lines thinking to distinguish you from other applicants looking for the first-rate occupations. Your designation as a Professional Physicist allows you to use the letters "P.Phys." to show that you possess the qualities and experience required to make judgement calls with respect to scientific matters in your particular field. As a Professional Physicist, you understand and uphold the CAP's Enhanced Code of Ethics and when solving problems, you do your best to consider all the different technical and societal matters that relate to your field of expertise. Full details are available at http://www.cap.ca/; click on "Certification".

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13. PRIZES AND ACADEMIC AWARDS All awards by the University are recorded on the student's transcript. Lodge Scholarship These scholarships, worth about $600 each, are named in honour of Professor Jack Lodge, the founding chairperson of the Physics Department. One is awarded annually in each of the first three years, to the students with the highest academic standing in physics courses and who are continuing towards a major in Physics, or who are continuing in Chemical Physics or Computing and Physics. The names of winners are on the plaque in the Physics display case in the Physics Building. Department of Physics Prize This is a cash prize awarded annually to the student achieving the highest academic standing in the first-year Physics course. Peterborough Professional Engineers Wives' Association Prize This is a cash prize awarded annually to an undergraduate student who shows excellence in second-year courses in Physics and Chemistry. Other Undergraduate Awards In addition to the various open scholarships, prizes and awards listed in the Trent University Calendar and awarded automatically on the basis of academic excellence, there are awards and scholarships available specifically to students at Canadian universities majoring in Physics. The call for applications for these awards is posted on a Department bulletin board when they are received, usually in December. Of particular interest are the NSERC Undergraduate Summer Research Awards. The NSERC USRA's awards are open to promising undergraduate Physics students and are tenable during the summer months for work as research assistants at a Canadian university or research institution. They normally require a minimum of an A average. NSERC also provides awards for students for summer work in industry. The deadline for application for these awards is early January. 14. POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN PHYSICS AND RELATED FIELDS After the completion of the Honours Physics programs, many students wish to pursue postgraduate studies in physics and related fields. Application to grad schools must typically be made by Feb 1 of your fourth year. There are three graduate programs in Physics or Astronomy available at Trent. Applications are due Feb 1. The first is the Materials Science MSc and PhD program, operated jointly with UOIT University of Ontario Institute of Technology) in Oshawa. It is an exciting, physics-and-chemistry based, multi-disciplinary program that investigates matter and materials across a broad range of scales, interactions, and applications. The MSc will permit continuation to PhD programs in Physics, Chemistry, and Materials Science. The second program leads to a Trent Master's degree in the Applied Modelling and Quantitative Methods (AMOD). This program is designed to prepare students for novel research being carried out at interdisciplinary interfaces, by bringing together graduate students who are applying quantitative modelling techniques in their thesis research in a broad range of disciplines. It will usually permit progression to Ph.D. programs in Physics at other universities.

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Finally, students who want a more traditional physics or astronomy MSc or PhD can enrol in the Trent-Queen's Graduate Studies Program in which students obtain their degree in Physics or Astronomy from Queen's University in Kingston while carrying out their research work and part of their course work at Trent. All three programs involve research, course work, and a weekly Physics/Chemistry research colloquium. For further information, see www.trentu.ca/physics and talk to your Trent Physics and Astronomy Professors. Graduate School Funding Students accepted for graduate studies at Trent receive a stipend (approx. $8,700) in return for teaching assistance. In addition, Trent graduate students may receive a $4,000 Research Fellowship. In Physics, this funding is increased substantially from the supervisor's research grant to typically $20,000 or more. As well, major outside scholarships are received at the graduate level by about 50% of all science students. These include the Ontario Graduate Scholarship, OGS, ($15,000 per year in 2011-12), the NSERC (Natural Science and Engineering Research Council) Scholarship ($17,300 to $17,500 at the MSc level and $21,000 to $35,000 for up to 3 years at the PhD level, in 2011-12). These scholarships normally must be applied for by mid-October in the final year of the Honours program. They are awarded on the basis of grades in second and third quarters and require at least an 80% average. See the Graduate Studies office for details. http://www.trentu.ca/graduatestudies For those who wish to continue to postgraduate studies at another institution, information about graduate programs offered elsewhere is available from Trent's Office of Graduate Studies and Research located in Blackburn Hall. The Physics and Astronomy Department Office also has graduate studies brochures recently received from other universities. These brochures are posted outside of SC317 and SC 327. Trent Physics graduates have successfully completed post graduate degrees at many other universities, including Cambridge, Harvard, UCLA, the Australian National University, Toronto, McMaster, Victoria and McGill. In recent years, all of our Honours graduates who have applied for admission to graduate schools have been accepted. 15. FURTHER INFORMATION Any suggestions for improvement to this Handbook would be greatly appreciated and can be sent to the Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Further information on the Department of Physics and Astronomy and on the undergraduate courses and programs offered by the Department can be obtained from: Prof. Ralph Shiell, Chair Department of Physics and Astronomy Peterborough, Ontario. Canada K9J 7B8 Telephone: (705) 748-1011 ext 7023 Fax (705) 748-1652 E-mail: physics@trentu.ca or visit our web page at: http://www.trentu.ca/physics