Course name: Physics and mathematics
COURSE CONTENT
Algebraic functions. Elementary trascendental functions and their graphs. Elements of vector calculus. Measurements and units: the International and CGS Systems. Kinematics: velocity, acceleration, linear and circular motions. Dynamics of a particle: the law of inertia, Newton's second and third laws, concept of force. Examples of forces. Work and energy: conservation of energy and conservative forces. Nonconservative forces: friction. Elements of dynamics of systems of particles. Oscillatory motion. Heat and temperature. First and Second Law of Thermodynamics, the Carnot engine. Thermodynamic potentials. Electric interaction, Coulomb's law, electric potential, energy relations in an electric field. Electric current. Magnetic interaction, Lorentz magnetic force. Magnetic field produced by a linear current: Biot-Savart's law. The Faraday-Henry law. Electrical oscillations. Wave motion: interference phenomena. Acoustic and electromagnetic waves. Wave propagation, Huygens' principle and diffraction phenomena. Reflection and refraction of plane waves. Wave geometry, lenses and optical instruments.
LEARNING OUTCOME
The purpose of the course is mainly to provide all students with the basic concepts of general physics. At the end of the Course the student ought to be able to apply what she/he has been learned to face the study of Chemistry,basic Biophysics and Physiology. The applications of physics to life sciences are emphasized.
CREDITS: 6 (Lectures)
CONTACT INFORMATION
Prof. Giorgio Cattapan
Physics Department ``G. Galilei"
Via Marzolo 8 35131 Padova
e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it