Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and exercises for Physics for Baccalaureate

The 8 Thresholds of Increasing Complexity

• 1: The Big Bang: The origin of the universe.
• 2: The First Stars: Hydrogen fusion with helium; stars consist of hydrogen and helium, while dying stars create all other elements.
• 3: Creation of Heavy Chemical Elements: The synthesis of complex matter.
• 4: The First Planets: Chemical elements orbiting stars, bound together gravitationally and chemically.
• 5: Life: Complex molecules bound together chemically and physically, developing abilities for metabolism, homeostasis, reproduction, and adaptation.
• 6: Evolution of Homo Sapiens: Collective learning; language and teamwork drive progress.
• 7: Agriculture and the Birth of Civilization: Warmer climates led to the Neolithic Revolution, shifting from hunting and gathering

Key Concepts in Law, Government and Taxation

Common law: Unwritten law based on tradition, custom or court decisions.

Governors possessed less power than they do today.

An elected official who cannot serve beyond the current term of office is a lame duck.

Court Jurisdiction

Intermediate appellate court: claims limited to $1,000.

Limited jurisdiction trial courts are courts of original jurisdiction.

Major trial courts hear cases of both criminal and civil nature.

In a criminal case, the state is the plaintiff.

Veto Powers

Line-item veto: veto of separate items rather than the whole bill.

Executive amendment: veto that rejects but suggests changes.

Package veto: veto of the entire bill.

Plea Bargaining

Successful plea bargaining results in the defendant pleading...