PHYS 1011: Physics for Future Leaders
Physics for Future Leaders covers the physics needed to understand and make decisions on many of society's complex contemporary issues. Physics is explained in the context of climate change, peak oil, nuclear power and weapons, natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes, satellites, and quantum physics and relativity.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the physics concepts that shape our modern world.
- Demonstrate the use of physics concepts in decision making.
- Demonstrate the ability to recognize the difference between opinion based and scientifically argued points of view.
- Write arguments based on scientific concepts and scientific evidence.
- Communicate scientific ideas effectively.
Course topics
Lesson 1: Energy and Power
Lesson 2: Atoms and Heat
Lesson 3: Gravity and Satellites
Lesson 4: Radioactivity and Nuclei
Lesson 5: Chain Reactions, Nuclear Reactors, and Atomic Bombs
Lesson 6: Electricity and Magnetism
Lesson 7: Waves
Lesson 8: Light
Lesson 9: Invisible Light
Lesson 10: Climate Change
Lesson 11: Quantum Physics
Lesson 12: Relativistic Physics
Required text and materials
Muller, R. Physics and technology for future presidents: An introduction to the essential physics every world leader needs to know. Princeton, NJ.: Princeton University Press, 2010.
Type: Textbook: ISBN 978-0-691-13504-5
Assessments
Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Exam.
| Readiness Assessment Tests (RATs) | 10% |
| Response Journal (Entry 1) | 3% |
| Response Journal (Entries 2, 3, 4 & 5) | 13% |
| Debate Task 1: Commercialization of Space | 7% |
| Debate Task 2: Nuclear Facility Arbitration | 7% |
| Debate Task 3: Oil Sands | 7% |
| Assignment 1: Lessons 1-3 | 7% |
| Assignment 2: Lessons 4-6 | 7% |
| Assignment 3: Lessons 7-9 | 7% |
| Assignment 4: Lessons 10-12 | 7% |
| Final Exam * | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
*mandatory
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
