2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

In response to the challenges of the evolving global educational landscape, the School of Engineering at the University has strategically positioned its Advanced Physics course to equip students with essential skills and experiences for professional practice as Christian engineers or for advanced studies in engineering, with a strong emphasis on cultivating robust research capabilities. Our University is a private evangelical university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The Advanced Physics Lab classes are designed to meet the dynamic needs of engineering education, incorporating flexible manuals tailored specifically for engineering disciplines. The curriculum emphasizes the practical application of physics and science to contribute to the betterment of the physical world, aligning with the University’s mission to promote the healing of the human condition.
A key component of the Advanced Physics course involves experimental research using the Muon Observatory developed by PASCO. Muons—elementary particles similar to electrons but approximately 200 times more massive—are produced in the uppermost part of Earth's atmosphere when cosmic rays interact with atmospheric molecules. The Observatory enables students to detect cosmic rays and study their interactions, resulting in showers of secondary particles. Students engaged in research to determine the optimal thickness of steel plates for maximizing cascade detection and exploring the angular distribution of cosmic ray muons in two distinct modes: shower mode and telescope mode.
The experimentation involved varying the thickness of steel plating above Geiger tubes to assess its impact on cosmic ray cascade detection. Through systematic investigation, students identified the optimal thickness that yielded the highest number of cascade detections. This experimentation provided insights into the behavior of relativistic electrons and photons as they penetrate matter, generating cascades of particles until the energy per particle became insufficient for pair production. The results not only enhance our understanding of particle interactions but also lay the groundwork for future research endeavors and the development of experimental procedures.
By integrating practical, hands-on experiences into the Advanced Physics course, the University seeks to deepen students' comprehension of complex concepts while fostering a passion for scientific inquiry. The research outcomes also highlight the university's commitment to preparing students for real-world challenges and advancing scientific knowledge.