Energy & Sustainability - Fall 2007
A Global Perspective
This course provides an overview of energy use around the world, in the U.S., and in the home. We study global energy and environmental problems from a wide range of perspectives, with emphasis on understanding contemporary issues in energy consumption and its environmental impact. Topics include: fossil fuel use and depletion, nuclear energy and waste disposal; solar, wind, hydroelectric and other renewable sources; home heating; energy storage; fuel cells; and alternative transportation vehicles. It introduces the physical principles and concepts in energy, the environment, and sustainability through an examination of current and potential energy systems, covering extraction, conversion and end-use, with emphasis on meeting regional and global energy needs in the 21st century in a sustainable manner. Examination of energy technologies in each fuel cycle stage for fossil (oil, gas, synthetic), nuclear (fission and fusion) and renewable (solar, biomass, wind, hydro, and geothermal) energy types, along with storage, transmission, disposal and conservation issues. An introduction to the global issues of environment and sustainability for concerned students.
General Information
Course number: PHYS3150
Number of credits: 3
Class times: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:10 am to 10:30 am
Class room: JFB 101
Instructor: Prof. Miguel Mostafá
Contact info: 224 INSCC, 1-4785, mostafa at physics dot utah dot edu
More information can be found in the syllabus, the flyer, and the brochure. Enjoy!
