Learning objectives
The course aims to complete the fundamental knowledge of modern physics and
deepen some applications for the study of the most common phenomena of interest
for the Sciences of Nature and Environment, in particular as concerns
radioactivity, the physics of Earth and the alternative energy sources.
The aim is to transfer knowledge and facilitate understanding that
allows to manage the major themes that require a physical approach,
to interpret results and communicate in an understandable and appropriate way, developing
autonomous learning skills necessary for further study.
Prerequisites
Physics Course
Course unit content
The course, after revisiting the general concepts of mechanics and electromagnetism, is dedicated to the study of the waves, to an introduction to Modern Physics and then to insights on the atomic and molecular structure before studying nuclei, nuclear reactions and radioactivity.
The basic physics concepts useful for the study of the Earth system and the understanding of issues related to the different energy sources will then be introduced.
Full programme
waves
Electromagnetic waves and electromagnetic pollution
geometrical optics - physical optics
The colors of nature and the light
optical instrumentation - Microscopy - Electronic Microscopy
Modern Physics - Structure of Matter
Atoms – Molecules - Nuclei
Natural and artificial radioactivity
radiation sources - Interaction Radiation Matter
ionizing radiations -
Radiation detectors
Nuclear Energy - Fission and Fusion
Elements of Earth Physics
Seismology - seismic waves
geomagnetism
The Earth-Atmosphere system
Essential Thermodynamics and energy sources:
from fossil to solar-geothermal-wind - etc.
Bibliography
Notes given or posted on the web by the teacher
Teaching methods
During the lectures the applications of Physics at the everyday experience will be constantly emphasized
suggesting analogies and correspondences to find the
laws of physics, even and especially of Modern Physics, in different areas.
Assessment methods and criteria
The level of learning is continuously evaluated with
involvement of the students.
At the end of the Courses a simple oral interview is required.
The oral test is to check the understanding of laws, principles,
connections between subjects, correlation between apparently
different situations.
The interview intends to evaluate the ability to apply the knowledge acquired during the course and not to have simple mnemonic statements.
It also intends to establish the language correctness and precision and to evaluate the ability to independently develop concepts and to distinguish the essential from the insignificant.
Other information
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