NEW SPRING 2016
PHYSICS COURSE OFFERINGS!
Introduction to Einstein’s General Theory
of Relativity
HOPR 4953-101; cross-listed with PHYS 4931-101
Offered Spring 2016; Tues/Thurs 3:30-4:45pm
Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity updates Sir Isaac Newton’s theory of gravity
to the modern age. Shockingly, the theory shows that gravity, in a sense, is not really a
force, but a property of space itself. The theory not only explains a number of phenomena
previously unexplained by Newtonian gravity alone, but also unveils the large scale
structure and evolution of the universe. After learning new, powerful mathematical
techniques students will study obits in the universe, the bending of star light due to the
presence of massive objects creating a “natural telescope”, and mathematically model the
evolution of the universe from the big bang until its present state and beyond. In addition,
bizarre yet interesting topics will include the physics of the inescapable black hole,
interstellar shortcuts through space, and time travel.
Note: Prerequisites are PHYS 1003/1004 or PHYS 1013/1014, and MATH 1450/1451 (Calculus 1 and 2).
Physics of Finance
HOPR 4953-902; cross-listed with Physics 4931-102
Offered Spring 2016, MWF 9:00-9:50am
The interest in the stock market over the last decade or so has risen exponentially. Accessibility
has never been better, not just the financial elite, but for the average investor. But how does the
average investor learn to identify companies and trends in order to limit risk and maximize
profits? This course will teach trading strategies for stock investors as well as the conservative
use of options. Physicists have had an influence on the evaluation of risk in financial markets,
and these principles can be applied to regular stock opportunities.
This course will begin with a systematic study of the stock market with an emphasis on how
stocks are traded, what causes stock prices to change, and what creates momentum in markets
and in stocks. Financial derivatives will be studied as applied to the stock market, and strategies
will be highlighted where options can be used to minimize risk in stock trades.