Catalog Description:  A study of the Theory of Special Relativity including the experimental background of special relativity, relativistic kinematics including the Doppler effect, and relativistic dynamics including the equation E =  m*c-squared . Prerequisite: PHYS 252.  One credit.

Text:  None required.  Course materials are available on-line

Prerequisites by Topic:  basic algebra, trigonometry, calculus, matrix multiplication, Newtonian kinematics and dynamics (laws of motion, momentum conservation, energy conservation)

Goals:
1. To deepen your understanding of the Special Theory of Relativity by examining its origins and its development.
2. To successfully apply the theory in the analysis of time and length effects, high speed particle dynamics, and high speed Doppler shifts.
3. To learn how to make and use a space-time diagram, a visual tool used to understand and apply the theory.
4. To investigate and learn the implications of the theory with regards to yet observed effects such as time travel.
5. To improve your mathematical skill and your analytic reasoning skill, both which are needed to be a successful physicist.
6. To deepen your appreciation of Nature.

Topics:
Newtonian Relativity
Light and Newtonian Relativity
Special Relativity
Relativity of Time, Simultaneity and Length
Relativity of Velocity and Acceleration
Aberration and Doppler Shift of Light
Space-time
More with Space-time Diagrams
Momentum
Energy
Relativistic Particles
Paradoxes
Time Travel

Attendance:  You are expected to attend class.

Final Exam:  Comprehensive

Course instructor webpage: Dr. John Varriano