Arts & Sciences 138.03: Freshman Seminar
The Wave Nature of the Universe
General Information

Course Description:
We are surrounded by waves: light waves, sound waves, microwaves, radio-waves, etc. These everyday occurrences play a critical role in how and why our universe is the way it is and how and why we perceive the universe as it is. This course will introduce students to the fundamental nature of waves, their properties, their use in science and art and the consequences associated with living in a wave universe. Specific issues will be addressed such as how wave properties lead to a natural discrete or quantum world and how the properties of waves can be used to create three-dimensional light sculptures in space. Each student will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of wave principles to create a three-dimensional artistic holographic image.

Course Format:
The class will meet once per week for 1.5 hours. Each topic will be introduced with a short lecture providing appropriate basic concepts. The remainder of the time will be devoted to the discussion. Readings (typically 1-5 pages) will be provided the previous week for the topic to be covered. The last two class meetings will be devoted for students to make and present their holograms in the Art/Physics holography laboratory.

Lectures and Demonstrations:
The material discussed in the lectures is listed below.

	Lecture	Topic(s) considered
	I	Course Introduction and Goals
	II	Introduction to Waves
	III	Properties of Waves
	IV	Properties of Waves
	V	Rules and Scales in Working with Waves
	VI	Waves and a Discrete Quantum World
	VII	The Statistical Nature of the Quantum World
	VIII	Outcomes of the Discrete World
	IX	The Making of a Hologram
	X	Presentation and Critique of Student Work

Blackboard for the course

Laboratory Time:
Laboratory time allows students to perform their own work. Each student will be allocated two hours of laborartory time. During this time the student will have sole access to the laboratory.