Dear prospective Phys 12x honors student,
 

Here is some information I send to everyone who inquires about the honors section of Physics 121-2-3. 

The honors section is intended to be more demanding than the non-honors version of Phys 12x.  The class size is also significantly smaller and the material covered is different.  The topics in the first quarter are mostly the same as in the non-honors version, although the order may differ.  In the second and third quarters we spend less time on basics (e.g., DC circuits, optics) in order to spend time on relativity, quantum mechanics, and thermal physics, topics that are not emphasized in the non-honors class.  Many students consider these topics to be especially fun and exciting. 

Because the course is more demanding, a given student might earn a higher grade in the regular class, for the same effort.  We take this into account by setting the average grade about 0.3 grade points higher in the honors version than in the regular version.  However, in the past some students have decided to switch to the regular class, which can be done at any time.  I will be assuming that students have a strong math background and are willing to work hard.  High school physics may be helpful but not as helpful as strong basic reasoning skills and a high level of motivation.  It is not necessary to be a physics major or a member of the Honors program to enroll nor is there a minimum GPA requirement or a placement test. 
   

If you decide to enroll you will need an add code. Please contact Margot Nims margot@phys.washington.edu, office C139A, phone (206)543-2772. Please let her know which tutorial and lab sections you would like to attend so she can give you the appropriate codes.  Often you cannot register because you do not have the required prerequisites, so make sure that you fulfill that requirement for each of the parts of the course 121, 122 and 123 when needed, before contacting Margot Nims first or me later if needed.

In the entire sequence 12x we will be using the ``Six ideas that shaped physics" by Thomas A Moore, in six volumes, second edition, with the exception of volume E for which we will use the third edition.  The order will most likely be 121-CN,  122-ER, 123-QT and we will cover roughly one chapter in each lecture. Students will be required to read the material before each lecture, classes will be dedicated mostly to discussions and interactive problem solving. Homework problems will be assigned from the end of the each chapter, approximately 3-4 per chapter.

Sincerely,

    Prof. Aurel Bulgac