PHYS 2216

Last Updated

  • Schedule of Classes - January 5, 2026 3:59PM EST
  • Course Catalog - May 29, 2024 10:20AM EDT

PHYS 2216
Introduction to Special Relativity

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

Introduction to Einstein's Theory of Special Relativity, including Galilean and Lorentz transformations, the concept of simultaneity, time dilation and Lorentz contraction, the relativistic transformations of velocity, momentum and energy, and relativistic invariance in the laws of physics. At the level of An Introduction to Mechanics by Kleppner and Kolenkow.


Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: PHYS 1112 or PHYS 2207 or permission of instructor.

Forbidden Overlaps Forbidden Overlap: due to an overlap in content, students will not receive credit for both PHYS 1116 and PHYS 2216.

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2025SP, 2024FA, 2024SP

When Offered Fall, Spring.

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none

  •   Seven Week - First. 

  • 1 Credit Sat/Unsat

  • 10165 PHYS 2216   LEC 001

  •  
    • TR
    • Aug 25 - Oct 10, 2025

    • Flanagan, E

  • Instruction Mode: In Person

    For Physics course enrollment help, please see: https://physics.cornell.edu/enrollment-guide.