- #1
jbrussell93
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I'm a physics major and choosing my classes for next semester but I'm not sure which physics elective is most useful for geophysics. I'm only beginning to take geology classes so I'm not sure exactly what will be helpful from the physics side of things. I guess this thread could also be labeled under "academic guidance" but I would prefer to hear from Earth science people specifically. I have 4 options and I'd like to take the one that will be most applicable in geophysics. I'm also interested possibly in space/atmospheric physics.
My options are:
Physics/Astronomy 3010: Introduction to Modern Astrophysics (3)
Elements of stellar, and galactic astrophysics. Interpretation of observations and physical conditions of various astronomical objects including stars, gaseous nebulae, galaxies.
- Probably only useful if I decide that I want to do something in the space physics realm
Physics 4050: Electronic Laboratory (4)
Acquaints students with techniques for the electronic acquisition and processing of physics data. Digital logic, integrated circuits, microprocessors, and interfacing. Two lectures, two labs weekly.
- Seems to be the most broadly useful out of my choices but I may be wrong.
Physics 4110: Light and Modern Optics (4)
Interaction of light with matter, spectroscopic techniques, wave optics, interferometry, multilayer films, polarization, non-linear optics, design of optical instruments, matrix methods, waveguides, fiber optics, acusto-optic and photo-elastic modulation. Includes both lectures and laboratory.
- Probably the most interesting to me but I'm not sure that it has any direct applications to geophysics
Physics 4190: Physics and Chemistry of Materials (3)
(same as Nuclear Science and Engineering 4319, and Chemistry 4490)
This course will cover fundamental and applied aspects relating to the Physics, Chemistry and Biology of material with specific emphasis on Nanoscience and Nanomedicine. Consists of lectures and experiments in nanoscience.
- Focus on nanoscience/medicine worries me but other topics may be helpful.
I appreciate any advice.
My options are:
Physics/Astronomy 3010: Introduction to Modern Astrophysics (3)
Elements of stellar, and galactic astrophysics. Interpretation of observations and physical conditions of various astronomical objects including stars, gaseous nebulae, galaxies.
- Probably only useful if I decide that I want to do something in the space physics realm
Physics 4050: Electronic Laboratory (4)
Acquaints students with techniques for the electronic acquisition and processing of physics data. Digital logic, integrated circuits, microprocessors, and interfacing. Two lectures, two labs weekly.
- Seems to be the most broadly useful out of my choices but I may be wrong.
Physics 4110: Light and Modern Optics (4)
Interaction of light with matter, spectroscopic techniques, wave optics, interferometry, multilayer films, polarization, non-linear optics, design of optical instruments, matrix methods, waveguides, fiber optics, acusto-optic and photo-elastic modulation. Includes both lectures and laboratory.
- Probably the most interesting to me but I'm not sure that it has any direct applications to geophysics
Physics 4190: Physics and Chemistry of Materials (3)
(same as Nuclear Science and Engineering 4319, and Chemistry 4490)
This course will cover fundamental and applied aspects relating to the Physics, Chemistry and Biology of material with specific emphasis on Nanoscience and Nanomedicine. Consists of lectures and experiments in nanoscience.
- Focus on nanoscience/medicine worries me but other topics may be helpful.
I appreciate any advice.