Learning objectives
The objective of the course is the basic knowledge and understanding of the fundamental laws of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, and electrostatic. Students will also learn how to solve simple problems.
Prerequisites
The course is calculus based.
The courses of Mathematical Analysis and Geometry should be previously attended.
Course unit content
Mechanics
Introduction, physical quantities, their measure, errors; vector quantities.
Kinematics and dynamics, mass, force, laws of motion.
Mechanics of point particles, equations of motion, linear momentum, collisions.
Work and energy, kinetic and potential energy, conservation of mechanical energy.
Outline of rigid-body mechanics, kinematics, moment of inertia, angular momentum, torque, statics and dynamics, rolling and rotations, conservation of energy, linear momentum and angular momentum.
Newton's law of gravity, gravitational and inertial mass, potential energy.
Thermodynamics
Thermodynamic variables, volume, pressure, flow rates, Bernoully's principle.
The zeroth law of thermodynamics and thermal equilibrium. Temperature, thermometers and temperature scales.
Kinetic theory of gases : microscopic origin of temperature, equipartition of energy.
The first law of thermodynamics, specific and latent heat, work, thermodynamic transformations, internal energy, cycles.
The second law of thermodynamics, heat engines and refrigerators, reversibility, Carnot cycle.
Entropy.
Electrostatics
Coulomb's law and the electric field.
Gauss's law and its applications. Continuous charge distributions.
Electrostatic potential , the electrostatic work and potential energy.
Conductors in electrostatic equilibrium, Coulomb's theorem, capacitors.
Dielectric materials, the dielectric costant and the dipolar description of insulators.
Bibliography
Suggested textbooks
D. Halliday, R. Resnick, K.S. Krane, “Fondamenti di fisica” vol 1 e 2 (CEA)
W.E. Gettys, F.J. Keller, M.J. Skove, “Fisica classica e moderna” vol. 1 e 2 (casa editrice McGraw-Hill)
P. Mazzoldi, M. Nigro, C. Voci, “Elementi di Fisica” in più volumi (EdiSES)
For a deeper insight
Serway-Beichner – Fisica per Scienze ed Ingegneria Vol 1-2 – Ed. EdiSES
Halliday-Resnick-Krane – Fisica 1 e 2 – Ed. CEA
P.Mazzoldi, M.Nigro, C.Voci – Fisica vol. I e II . Ed. EdiSES
Teaching methods
Exercise sessions will be held during the course.
Assessment methods and criteria
An intermediate and a final written test. An oral exam is compulsory only for test results below a certain threshold (details on the specific course web page)
