Science A-29. The Nature of Light and Matter
Catalog Number: 1706
Roy J. Glauber
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 12, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 5
Explores the ultimate nature of light and develops closely related insights into the structure of matter. An excursion through the physical world that proceeds by means of colorful lecture demonstrations drawn from several areas of optics, acoustics, electricity, and magnetism. The course concentrates on describing natural laws in terms of vivid and useful images emphasizing, for example, the common features of musical instruments, broadcast transmitters, and radiating atoms. The behavior of waves of various sorts is used to explain the limitations on knowledge imposed by the uncertainty principle.
Science A-30. The Atmosphere
Catalog Number: 0477 Enrollment: Limited to 60.
Steven C. Wofsy and Daniel J. Jacob
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
The physical and chemical processes that regulate climate and the composition of the atmosphere are introduced, including mechanics, thermodynamics, radiation, and chemical kinetics. Atmospheric temperature and precipitation; weather and climate; human activity as a factor for change; influence of carbon dioxide from fossil fuel on climate; modification of stratospheric ozone by industrial chemicals; air pollution; acid rain.
Science A-35. Matter in the Universe
Catalog Number: 5923 Enrollment: Limited to 325.
Robert P. Kirshner
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 12–1:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 14, 15
The nature and history of matter revealed by astronomical observation and experimental physics. Explores the Big Bang and models of the universe, stellar evolution and supernova explosions, evidence for invisible matter, and the development of structure in the universe. Demonstrates the physical principles used to interpret astronomical data and to construct a model for the evolution of the universe on the microscopic and cosmic scales. Examines the way microscopic properties of matter determine properties of people, stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole.
Science A-36. Observing the Sun and the Stars
Catalog Number: 4775
Jonathan E. Grindlay
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1, and two one-hour laboratory sessions (daytime and evening) to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Direct observations of the Sun and the stars, to learn how we can understand the Galaxy and the Universe from stars, the basic building blocks. Students conduct visual observations to measure apparent motions of the Sun and stars, laboratory experiments with light and spectra, and make telescopic observations of the Sun and stars using modern instrumentation to explore their energy output, relative distances, temperatures and chemical composition, and something of their life histories. Lectures and readings discuss the physical nature and evolution of stars as well as how stars are organized in our Milky Way Galaxy, and in the Universe.
Science A-39. Time
Catalog Number: 0077
Gary J. Feldman
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1:30–3, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Studies the evolution, over the past three centuries, of our concept of time and of related questions, such as the predictability of the future. Newtonian mechanics envisions a universal time, symmetric between past and future. The distinction between past and future emerges in the 19th century from considerations of statistical processes. In the 20th century, the theory of relativity forces fundamental changes in the concept of time. Time ceases to be universal and becomes entangled with space and gravity. Quantum mechanics limits the predictability of the future and introduces verified effects so weird that Einstein wrote of them, “No reasonable definition of reality could be expected to permit this.”
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2004–05.
Prerequisite: Some knowledge of secondary school physics useful, but not required.
[Science A-41. The Einstein Revolution]
Catalog Number: 3581
Peter L. Galison
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 9–10:30, and a 90-minute weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 11, 12
Albert Einstein has become the icon of modern science. Following his scientific, cultural, philosophical, and political trajectory, this course aims to track the changing role of physics in this century. Addresses Einstein and his engagement with relativity, quantum mechanics, Nazism, nuclear weapons, philosophy, and technology, and raises basic questions about what it means to understand physics and its history.
Note: Expected to be given in 2004–05.
Science A-43. Environmental Risks and Disasters
Catalog Number: 6001
Göran Ekström
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 11, and a 90-minute weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 4
An introduction to risks in the environment. Different types of hazards are analyzed and compared: natural disasters, such as tornados, earthquakes, and meteorite impacts; adverse health effects caused by exposure to radiation and toxic substances such as radon, asbestos, and arsenic; long-term effects due to environmental change, such as sea level rise and global warming. Emphasizes the basic physical principles controlling the hazardous phenomena and develops simple quantitative methods for making scientifically reasoned assessments of the threats posed by hazardous events, processes, and exposures. Discusses methods of risk mitigation and sociological, psychological, and economic aspects of risk control and management.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2004–05.
[Science A-45. Reality Physics]
Catalog Number: 4562
Gerald Gabrielse
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
What flows from electrical wall sockets, cell phones, and power lines? What are the risks? How do magnetic resonance imaging, X-rays, and CT scans take pictures within our bodies, and with what danger? What are the lasers that inhabit grocery store checkout counters and CD players? What are atomic clocks? How have they and GPS satellites revolutionized navigation for backpackers and ships? How does Einstein’s famous formula describe the energy release from nuclei? What are nuclear reactors and nuclear waste? This quantitative study of the physics of daily life is intended to enable more informed choices in our society.
Note: Expected to be given in 2004–05.
[Science A-47. Cosmic Connections]
Catalog Number: 6940
Lars Hernquist
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 3
This course will examine the origin and evolution of stars and planets, and will consider connections between astronomical events and the conditions that seem necessary for life to develop. The underlying theme is that humans are a part of an evolving Universe and that our presence is linked to the cosmos at large. To tell this story, we must talk about how the Earth and the Sun came about, and ultimately how the Milky Way and the Universe were created.
Note: Expected to be given in 2004–05.
Science A-49. The Physics of Music and Sound
Catalog Number: 8987
Eric J. Heller
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Sound and music are integral parts of all human cultures, and play critical roles in communications and social interactions. In this course, we explore the science of the production, transmission, and perception of sound, with the aim of expanding both scientific and artistic horizons. Topics will include the nature of vibrations, resonance, interference, harmony, dissonance, musical instruments, and human auditory response. Principles of physics are slowly worked into the course as topics arise. The mathematical background of students is assumed to be at the level of high school algebra and trigonometry.
Science B-27. Human Evolution
Catalog Number: 0470
David Pilbeam, Daniel E. Lieberman, and Maryellen Ruvolo
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30, and a 90-minute weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
A survey of human evolution as a particular example of important issues in biological anthropology and evolutionary biology. Some principles of evolutionary theory, primate behavioral ecology, molecular evolution, and functional morphology are used to interpret the fossil record of the hominids (humans and their direct ancestors and collaterals), from hominid origins to the appearance of modern humans through to the present day. Emphasis is on the dynamic (behavioral, populational, and ecological) interpretation of the records.
Science B-29. Evolution of Human Nature
Catalog Number: 0152 Enrollment: Limited to 400.
Richard W. Wrangham and Marc D. Hauser
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 1, and a 90-minute weekly section/laboratory to be arranged. Additional meeting times for two required film showings to be announced. EXAM GROUP: 6
Human biology and behavior are considered in a broad evolutionary context, showing how the facts of development, physiology, neurobiology, reproduction, cognition, and especially behavior are informed by evolutionary theory and comparative evidence. Field and experimental data on other species are introduced with the aim of illuminating human behavior. Behavior is traced from its evolutionary function as adaptation, through its physiological basis and associated psychological mechanisms, to its expression. The role of ecology and social life in shaping human behavior is examined through the use of ethnographies and cross-cultural materials on a variety of human cultures. Topics include basic genetics, neural and neuroendocrine systems, behavioral development, sex differences, kinship and mating systems, ecology, language, and cognition.
Science B-35. How to Build a Habitable Planet
Catalog Number: 7621
Charles H. Langmuir
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
The steps involved in creation of our habitable planet: the Big Bang, origin of the elements, formation of minerals, origin of the solar system, formation of planets, origin of life, co-evolution of ocean, atmosphere, solid earth and biosphere, development of plate tectonics, operation of the modern whole earth system, and climate regulation. Finally we consider the arising of intelligent life that can understand and influence the planetary system, and whether Earth may be a microcosm reflecting laws of planetary evolution that are common to living planets throughout the universe, or alternatively a low probability accident.
Science B-40. The Biology of Trees and Forests
Catalog Number: 2635
Donald H. Pfister
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1, and a weekly section/laboratory to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Trees are prominent and important organisms in the ecosystem. By photosynthesis, trees convert carbon dioxide into organic molecules that are used as energy reserves and as structural components of these plants. Oxygen is also released. Trees, carbon cycling, and the greenhouse effect are intimately intertwined. This course uses trees as examples to explore several facets of plant biology as they relate to identification, growth, reproduction, physiology of transport, ecology, management, and use of plant products.
Science B-44. Vision and Brain
Catalog Number: 4722
Patrick Cavanagh
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Focuses on the mechanisms by which the brain understands the visual world. Topics include the nature of light in the environment, physical properties of the eye, techniques of depiction in art, structure and function of the normal visual system, and deficits arising from damage to the eye or the brain. The course will survey interdisciplinary material from physics, physiology, medicine, psychology, and art.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2004–05.
Science B-46. Molecular Biology and the Structure of Life
Catalog Number: 3395
George M. Whitesides and Gregory L. Verdine
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 9; and a 90-minute weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 2
Describes the applications of molecular biology to medicine, evolution, forensics, and biotechnology. Modern biology is based on a view of life in which a small set of key molecules—DNA, RNA, and proteins—play central roles. This view makes it possible to discuss a remarkable range of characteristics of living organisms using a common set of principles. Also considers the implications of molecular genetics and the human genome project.
Science B-48. From DNA to Brain
Catalog Number: 3320
Howard C. Berg and John E. Dowling
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1, and a weekly discussion/demonstration section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Explores the way in which information is stored and processed by biological systems, first by molecules—DNA, RNA, protein, and phospholipid—then by cells and cell assemblies, particularly the nervous system. Learning how DNA gives rise to brain and how the brain works are among the greatest challenges in modern biology. Our hope is to give students a taste of this remarkable enterprise.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2004–05.
Prerequisite: Secondary school chemistry.
Science B-53. Marine Biology
Catalog Number: 7050 Enrollment: Limited
Robert M. Woollacott
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30, and a two-hour weekly section to be arranged. Three field trips will substitute for three weeks of section. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Explores the life histories and adaptations of marine life and the ecosystems of the sea. Centers on the complex interrelationships of organisms, the diversity of various habitats, reproductive strategies, and speciation as well as the interplay of currents, light, temperature, and nutrient supply on the distribution of life in the sea.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2004–05.
Prerequisite: Secondary school biology.
Science B-57. Dinosaurs and Their Relatives
Catalog Number: 0793
Charles R. Marshall
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Comprehensive exploration of the biology, evolution, and extinction of the dinosaurs and their closest relatives. Through this exploration, core concepts in paleontology, evolutionary biology, and geology will be introduced. Weekly sections center on the examination of fossil material.
Science B-60. Origins of Knowledge
Catalog Number: 8280
Susan E. Carey and Elizabeth S. Spelke
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 11, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 4
This course explores the origins and development of knowledge in the human child, in relation to two larger time scales: biological evolution and historical/cultural change. Drawing on evidence from experimental, comparative, and developmental psychology, cultural anthropology, linguistics, cognitive neuroscience, and history of science, it focuses on knowledge development in the domains of number, space, mind, biology, physics, and language. Questions include: How does human biology constrain and support human cognition? How variable are human knowledge systems across different cultures and times? What aspects of knowledge are unique to humans? How does knowledge change as children grow and adults gain expertise?
Science B-62. The Human Mind
Catalog Number: 3167
Steven Pinker
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1:30–3, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An introduction to the workings of the human psyche. The course will introduce major approaches to the study of the mind such as psychoanalysis, behaviorism, cognitive neuroscience, and evolutionary psychology; controversies such as nature-nurture, consciousness, and free will; and specific topics such as perception, reasoning, language, emotion, sexuality, cooperation, love, violence, humor, beauty, religion, and the self. Research from numerous disciplines will be discussed: primarily scientific psychology, but also neuroscience, genetics, evolution, artificial intelligence, philosophy, and the social sciences.