PHYS 2218

PHYS 2218

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

This course is divided into two parts. The larger segment of the course typically focuses on wave phenomena. Topics include: coupled harmonic oscillators, strings, sound and light waves, superposition principle, wave equations, Fourier series and transforms, diffraction and interference. The discussion is at the level of The Physics of Waves by Georgi. The second segment of the course covers thermodynamics and statistical mechanics at the level of Thermal Physics by Schroeder.


Prerequisites REF-FA25/Corequisites REF-FA25 Prerequisites: None. PHYS 2210 must be taken to remain enrolled in PHYS 2218. Prerequisite: PHYS 2217 or very strong performance in PHYS 2213. Students would benefit from prior exposure to differential equations at the level of MATH 2930 or from concurrent enrollment in that course. Some linear algebra may be used, either prior or concurrent enrollment in linear algebra is recommended (MATH 2940, MATH 2210, or MATH 2230).

Forbidden Overlaps REF-FA25 PHYS 2214, PHYS 2218

Enrollment Information REF-F25 Intended mainly but not exclusively for: prospective majors in Physics, Astronomy, or Engineering Physics.

Distribution Requirements (CHPH-AG, OPHLS-AG), (PHS-AS)

Last 4 terms offered (None)

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Syllabi: none
  •   Regular Academic Session.  Choose one lecture and one discussion.

  • 3 Credits Stdnt Opt

  •  2550 PHYS 2218   LEC 001

    • MWF
    • Aug 25 - Dec 8, 2025
    • Arias, T

  • Instruction Mode: In Person

    Corequisite: PHYS 2210.
    For Physics course enrollment help, please see: https://physics.cornell.edu/enrollment-guide.

  •  2551 PHYS 2218   DIS 201

    • T
    • Aug 25 - Dec 8, 2025
    • Arias, T

  • Instruction Mode: In Person

  •  2552 PHYS 2218   DIS 202

    • W
    • Aug 25 - Dec 8, 2025
    • Arias, T

  • Instruction Mode: In Person