PSC 102 - Introduction to Physical Sciences

1. Demonstrate laboratory skills.
   1. Perform measurements with appropriate devices.
   2. Use significant digits in calculations correctly.
   3. Demonstrate ability to work with metric units and conversions.
   4.  Analyze data from experiments to draw conclusions.
   5. Use technology associated with a science laboratory.
   6. Use appropriate safety protocols in the laboratory.
   7. Produce reports from experimental work.
   8. Demonstrate understanding of the scientific method.
   9. Work productively with classmates in group activities and experiments.
2. Communicate in the language of science.
   1. Read scientific material critically.
   2. Interpret graphs and charts.
   3. Use writing to explain physical processes.
   4. Discuss science with others.
3. Describe aspects of Newtonian mechanics.
   1. Solve kinematics questions/problems.
   2. State Newton's Three Laws of Motion.
   3. Use and apply Newton’s Laws to force problems.
   4.  Analyze dynamics problems through creation of free body diagrams.
   5. Solve problems/questions using force, energy, and linear momentum.
   6. Discuss laws of conservation.
4. Demonstrate understanding of fluid principles.
   1. Explain density.
   2. Explain the idea of pressure as it relates to fluids.
   3. Explain phenomena related to Pascal’s Principle.
   4. Explain phenomena related to Archimedes’ Principle.
   5.  Explain phenomena related to Bernoulli’s equation.
5. Demonstrate understanding of thermodynamic principles.
   1. Describe heat.
   2. Demonstrate ability to convert between different temperature scales
   3.  Discuss the Laws of Thermodynamics.
   4. Explain the relationship between temperature difference and heat.
   5. Explain the relationship between specific heat and latent heat.
   6. Describe the three mechanisms of energy transfer as heat.
6. Demonstrate understanding of concepts related to electromagnetism.
   1. Describe the properties of electric charge.
   2. Distinguish between electrical conductors and insulators.
   3. Explain Coulombs Law.
   4. Analyze problems using Ohm’s Law and power.
   5. Distinguish between series and parallel circuits.   
   6. Distinguish between direct current and alternating current.  
   7. Describe magnetic fields.
   8. Describe electromagnetic interactions and applications.
7. Demonstrate understanding of wave phenomena.
   1. Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal waves.
   2. Differentiate the various regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
   3. Explain the Doppler Effect.
   4. Analyze standing waves.
   5. Describe constructive and destructive interference.
   6. Explain the relationship between speed, frequency, and wavelength.
   7. Describe the reflection and refraction of sound and light.
   8. Explain the concept of total internal reflection.
   9. Explain the phenomena of diffraction, interference and polarization.
   10. Explain the additive and subtractive color systems.
8. Demonstrate an understanding the particulate nature of matter.
   1. Draw, build, or describe models of atoms showing nuclear structure.
   2. Draw, build, or describe models of atoms showing electronic structure.
   3. Apply naming conventions to write names for binary ionic and molecular compounds.
   4. Differentiate between atoms, ions, molecules, and isotopes
   5. Differentiate between ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding.
   6.  Draw, build, or describe Lewis structure models of atoms, ions, and molecules to convey  the arrangement of valence electrons and atoms in molecules.
9. Explain the properties and behaviors of matter.      
   1. Explain the quantum mechanical model of the atom and periodic trends of the elements.
   2. Describe physical properties and changes and distinguish them from chemical properties and changes.
   3. Explain attractive forces between particles.
   4. Explain proton transfer in acids and bases.
   5. Calculate pH given hydronium ion concentration.
10. Demonstrate an understanding of chemical reactions.
    1. Construct balanced chemical reactions
    2. Identify or explain factors that influence reaction rate
    3. Differentiate between endothermic and exothermic reactions.
    4. Describe the significance of entropy and enthalpy as driving forces for reactions.
    5. Classify reactions as acid-base neutralization or oxidation-reduction reaction.
    6. Describe the movement of electrons in oxidation-reduction reactions.
    7. Solve problems/questions using energy, entropy, and enthalpy. 
    8. Solve stoichiometry problems involving mass and moles of a reactant or product.