Physics 131 Physics for Biologists I

This is not your parents' physics! This class will focus on the physics relevant to living things from molecules to worms to woodpeckers. While physics, chemistry, and biology are well established fields, some of the scientific questions you will explore in this class have only recently been tackled. You will focus on physics at the convergence with biology, where physical, chemical, and biological principles all come into play. A primary theme for this first semester is the concept of motion -- and the difference between coherent, directed motion and the random motion that occurs at the molecular level.

This class has a lot of moving parts. Be sure to follow all the links below so you know what's going on.

The best advice is DON'T SKIP ANYTHING (at least on a regular basis). Most activities accrue points and missing a large block of anything can have serious implications for your grade.

The red navigation bar across the top of this page (below the title) links you to what you need to do each week.

• the readings (under "Schedule")
• the homework
• the printouts for the recitations and labs
  

Each of the red titles below is a link to the details.

What do I need for this class?

• Prerequisites: bio, chem, and math)
• Required: Purchase an online app giving access to homework and in-class activities
• Required: A clicker or cell phone to share answers in lecture
• Optional: A paper text (only if you want one)
• Optional: A paper recitation and lab manual (recommended but not required)
  

What do I need to do for (and before) each lecture?

• Do the readings
• Do the brief on-line activity associated with the reading
• Come to class and participate
  

What else do I need to do each week?

• Complete the weekly homework (part online, part on paper)
• Print out the recitation worksheet and go to your recitation section
• Read the pre-lab readings, print out the lab instructions, and go to your lab session.
  

How do tests work in this class?

• Weekly quizzes
• Two full-lecture-period exams
• One final.
• These are not traditional! Be sure to read the details at the linked page!
  

How is my grade determined and how can I find out how I'm doing?

• There are many factors involved! Be sure to read the details at the linked page!
• ELMS gives an estimate, but these are not a hard and fast result.
  

Where, when, and who?

• Class times and locations
• Instructors and how to contact them
  

Rules and regulations

• Disability accomodations
• Religious exceptions and other excused absences
• Cheating and the honor code.