PHYS688P

Cross-listed with PLCY688P and jointly offered with PHYS488P/PLCY488P. This course examines technologies of modern warfare and intelligence. Topics include the design, production, deployment, and effects of nuclear weapons; ballistic missiles and missile defense; bombers, cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, and air defense; submarines and anti-submarine warfare; artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles; satellites and anti-satellite weapons; verification and intelligence technologies; and chemical, biological, and radiological weapons. The grade will be determined by weekly problem sets and a take-home final exam. Knowledge of physics at the PHYS 141/142 level helpful but not essential.