California Institute of Technology Cal Tech - Big T Yearbook (Pasadena, CA)

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PHYSICS DEPARTMENT IN speaking of the Department of Physics, one thinks first of the wonderful Iniilding which houses this branch of the Institute ' s work. The Norman Bridge Laboratory of Physics is one of the most complete and best equipped labora- tories in the country, and aiYords an unusual opportunity to those men engaged in research within its precints. The third unit is now completed, and provides num- erous class rooms besides the usual research rooms. Naturally in physics, as in all courses, the student must follow a rather definitely laid out curriculum, but it is the aim of the faculty to so far as ])Ossible surround the undergraduate with an atmosphere of research after the comple- tion of his second year, and to allow him to follow his own inclinations as far as possible in the matter of choosing research subjects. The course known as Physics and Engineering is growing exceedingly popular and an ever increasing number of men are signing up for the combination of pure science and applied engineering subjects, some laying more stress on one side and some on the other. Most of the men working on research problems are doing their work in con- junction with, and under the direct guidance of some prominent ])hysicist, and thus are getting not only a knowledge of the subject in hand and a chance to work out their own ideas, but also an invaluable training in the methods of attack, by observing the processes by which the older and more experienced men handle their [iroblems. This past year there have been several very interesting research problems investigated by undergraduates. One of the most im])c)rtant of these was carried on by William Dent, working on the theory and construction of a sodium x ' oltmeter. Both Emerson Bailey and Joy ' an den . ' Kkkcr did consider- able researcli in the study of flourescence in the extreme ultra-violet, while (ieorge Clapp worked with Wladimir Zaikowsky on the subject of internal combustion engines, studying the whys and wherefores of their eccentricities. W liile it is impossible to give a very complete course in research work to the undergraduate, it is the plan of those designing the curriculum to give the student sufficient work along these lines to enable him to see just what the field is to be after graduation and to find out whether or not he desires to cast his lot with those searching for new discoveries in pure science or whether he wishes to adopt as his life work the more technical side known as engineering. twcnlv-six

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EXGIXEERIXG AND ECONOMICS DEPARTMENT THE Engineering and Ecunomics Department differs from other departments not only in the nature of the work done but in its aims and resuhs obtained. Other departments aim at teaching pure or apphed sciences, thus fitting men primarily for research and development work, or for construction and operation. The aim of the Economics Department is to de ' elop men fit for administrative work. These men are trained in engineering; they have learned to ap])ly scientific methods to problems ; and to think clearly and accurately. The administration of industries requires an alertness and ability to keep up with new methods, for it is a science in itself. This quality is obtained by the atmosphere of research and experiment surrounding the student. Actual observation and criticism of operat- ing industries forms an imjjortant part of the work since it allows the student to apply his classroom knowledge and at the same time is a valualile exercise to develop his jiersonal abilities. T ' or the man whose abilities are not of a strictly engineering type, this de- I)artment will provide training enabling him to become an executive, preferably in an industrial or constructive concern. His acquaintance with the technical side of industry coupled with business training will provide the most efficient equiiimcnt with which to work. That liusiness executives with technical train- ing often hold more responsible jobs with higher salaries than the specialized engineer, is .shown by the organization of large light and power, construction, manufacturing and .similar concerns. Both types of men are required in the efficient carrying on of our complex economic system. The former type is, if anything, rarer, and should have careful training. It is believed that the basis of ' his training .should be science and engineering, instead of wholly commerce as is the case in most courses elsewhere. To Professor Laing belongs most of the credit for the development of this de|iartmcnt. He has created something that is not only of great value to all engineers but is of itself, very interesting and apjireciated by all. The ever in- ceasing number of men taking uj) this phase of engineering is the best proof possible of the real value of the training offered in the business side of engineer- ing. tiiciity-cight