Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   General Physics Lab II

 Title Abbreviation:   GENERAL PHYSICS LAB II

 Department:    PHYS&

 Course #:    125

 Credits:    1

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    1.5

 CIP:    400801

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

Algebra-based physics lab course to accompany PHYS& 135. Emphasis on atomic theory of gases, heat, waves, sound and geometric optics.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: Required concurrent enrollment in PHYS& 135.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 0

Lab: 22

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic Natural Sciences  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
CWU 112 lab
U of W 118
WSU 1XX Transfers as 101 when taken with PHYS& 134, 124, 135. Transfers as 102 when taken with PHYS& 136, 126, and 135.
WWU 115 Transfers as 115 when taken with PHYS& 135.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Measure thermodynamic and fluid properties in a safe and reproducible manner.
  2. Design and use different optical systems (lens arrays, spectrometers, mirrors).
  3. Correctly articulate the purpose of the lab and how it will be accomplished.
  4. Demonstrate basic experimental skills in the practice of setting up and conducting an experiment using appropriate safety protocols.
  5. Use basic laboratory data analysis techniques, including distinguishing statistical and systematic errors and representing data graphically.
  6. Effectively interpret and communicate experimental results.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

8. Mathematical Reasoning

Definition: Understanding and applying concepts of mathematics and logical reasoning in a variety of contexts, both academic and non-academic.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
8.2 Correctly apply logical reasoning and mathematical principles to solve problems.
8.3 Interpret information and reasoning expressed mathematically (for example in spreadsheets, diagrams, charts, formulas, etc.).

9. Scientific Literacy

Definition: Understanding scientific principles, and analyzing and applying scientific information in a variety of contexts.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
9.1 Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts.
9.2 Demonstrate their understanding of the principles of scientific methods, analysis, and reasoning.
9.3 Analyze, apply, and communicate scientific concepts and principles in context (for example, in technological, personal, and/or professional situations).

Course Contents

  1. Properties of fluid
  2. Harmonic motion
  3. Waves
  4. Sound
  5. Geometric optics, mirrors, and lenses
  6. Interference, diffraction, and polarization
  7. Temperature and heat
  8. Thermal properties of matter (gas laws, thermal expansion)
  9. Thermodynamics, entropy