spacer
spacer

Department of Chemistry & Physics
319 Johnson EPS Building

20 Mt. Pelia Rd.
University of TN at Martin
Martin, TN 38238-5039
Phone: 731-881-7451
Fax: 731-881-7443
Chair: Dr. Rick Thomas
cthomas@utm.edu



Click Here for GPS Direction
Ribbons Decorative

Physics and Astronomy Program

 

Professor Lily Li sets up a physics laboratory

Course Offerings
Minor in Physics
Other Physics Links

College Algebra Tutorials

 

Physics

Physics is the study of everything natural.  From quarks to the universe, nothing escapes the all-seeing eye of the physicist.  Different fields of specialty cover the various topics.  

  • Particle physics is the study of tiny particles; such as quarks, electrons, neutrinos, and various other exotic objects.  
  • Nuclear physics is the study of the reactions and forces that make up the structure of an atomic  nucleus.
  • Solid State physics is the study of the microscopic and macroscopic behavior of solids.
  • Biophysics is the study of the physical properties of biological structures; such as DNA and organs.
  • Fluid Dynamics is the study of the behavior of fluids; such as macroscopic flow and diffusion.
  • Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics are the study of the overall behavior of many atoms acting together.
  • Astrophysics is the study of the properties of stars, planets, galaxies and the interstellar medium.
  • Cosmology is the study of the properties of the universe as a whole.

Many of these fields have direct applications to the everyday world, while some deal with rather exotic circumstances and places.  But all speak to an understanding of our place in the universe and how it works.

 

Research in Physics and Astronomy at UT-Martin

There are several opportunities for students to conduct research in physics and astronomy at UT-Martin.  Working in cooperation with different faculty members can give a student a taste of what "real" physics is all about.  See our web page for a brief description of projects and links to research pages.

 

Outreach for K-12 Teachers

The physics and astronomy faculty at UT-Martin would like to serve as a focal point in physics and astronomy education for local schools.  Direct assistance on specific projects, presentations to classes, and sharing of resources, are ways we can help improve West Tennessee physics and astronomy education.  See our web page for the programs and points of contact.

 

Physics Faculty

Dr. Lionel Crews

Dr. Cahit Erkal

Dr. Misganaw Getaneh

Dr. Linghong ("Lily") Li