Reading Programs

These are all of the Reading Programs being offered this semester and their leaders. We hope you will join!

Advanced Methods in Classical Mechanics

This program explores classical mechanics through a modern lens of symplectic geometry, focusing on the Hamiltonian framework, Lagrangian methods, Noether’s Theorem, and celestial mechanics. Students should be taking or have taken Classical Mechanics II.

Corequisite: Calculus III

Led by Fabian

Crystallography

Crystallography is an inherently interdisciplinary field overlapping with math, physics, materials science, chemistry, and even medicine. In this program, students will learn about the basic structure and properties of the crystals we build the world with. Some background in physics and chemistry will be helpful, but are certainly not required. Anyone is welcome!

Led by Julia

Medical Physics

Medical physics is the application of physics principles, methods, and techniques to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. We will cover various imaging techniques such as X-Ray, MRI and ultrasound, in addition to radiation therapy. This program is an extension of the quantum biology reading program from fall, with a continuation of several neuroscience and magnetoreception discussions. However, no formal physics background is required.

Led by Mateusz

Practical Electronics

Learn about how electronics are made, the standard set of components, and how we can use these devices to achieve real, useful objectives. We will try to make connections with physics fairly often, both in explaining how these electronic components work, and how they can be used for physical experiments. We will have a plethora of real world demonstrations, how to use them in tandem, and how to measure their functioning. This course is perfect for the aspiring experimentalist without much electronic experience, or the theorist who wants to stretch their legs and leave their blackboard for a moment. There is very little prior knowledge required.

Led by Dennis

Railguns and Maxwell’s Funs:
Applications of E&M

Electromagnetism forms an essential part of physics, but its applications are not commonly taught in classes. Through this reading program, students will learn about practical applications of E&M from railguns to astrophysical plasmas. Conceptual understanding will be emphasized, but students should be currently taking or have taken an E&M course.