Catalog Description:  The research proposed in PHYS 491 is carried out.  Prerequisite: PHYS 491. One semester, two credits.

Text:  No specific textbook is required.

Goals: The goals of Physics 491 & 492 are:
1. To learn how to perform and to perform theoretical and/or experimental research in some area of physics.  This includes the development of the following skills: the reading of scientific sources, the synthesis of the ideas discussed in these sources into the research, the ability to organize and direct the research effort, and the ability to analyze the results of the research effort.
2. To convey the results of the research in a written report, in an oral presentation, and in a poster presentation, the three common forms of reporting research results in the physics community.
3. To prepare you for employment in the scientific industry as a research scientist or for research in graduate school.

Topics:
The course is primarily designed by you and by the results that you encounter as you perform your research.  It should be emphasized that this course is focused on the research process and quality of your results, not on the quantity of results that you obtain.  Be prepared to hit obstacles as you proceed and be flexible in your research. Try to think of ways around these obstacles or, even better, try to predict where and when the obstacles will occur so that you can deal with them accordingly.

You are on your own as far as when and how long you work on your research.  Keep in mind that this is a 2 credit hour course and that I expect a certain amount of work throughout the semester commensurate with a 2 credit hour class.  You should meet with me at least once a week to discuss your progress.

You are to present your results near the end of the semester in three different formats: a written article, an oral presentation, and a poster presentation.  These formats are the usual ways in which scientific results are communicated to the public.

Course instructor webpage: Dr. John Varriano