FISICA MEDICA M - Z

The primary objective is for the student to consciously master the descriptive and predictive capabilities of physics as applied to phenomena characteristic of biological systems, also in preparation for the knowledge required in the subsequent stages of the degree program. The student will be expected to:

- know how to appropriately apply concepts regarding physical quantities and dimensional analysis;

- know how to apply vector calculus to solve physics problems in the biomedical field;

- know how to solve problems related to the kinematics, statics, and dynamics of a point mass;

- know how to apply knowledge of fluid statics and fluid dynamics to real-world problems in the biomedical field;

- know how to apply fundamental concepts of thermodynamics (thermal physics);

- know how to apply fundamental concepts of acoustics;

- know how to apply fundamental concepts related to the electromagnetic spectrum.

Lectures and guided exercises will enable students to acquire the skills needed both to understand and interpret physical laws from phenomenological and dimensional perspectives, and to approach the solution of simple problems in this field in a scientific and quantitative manner.

Furthermore, with reference to the so-called Dublin Descriptors, this course contributes to the acquisition of the following transversal skills:

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:

Developing the ability to frame and understand basic physics concepts and to recognize, use, and apply them in real-world situations.

Autonomy of judgment (making judgments):

Being able to frame a problem and independently devise solutions.

Communication skills:

Acquiring the necessary communication skills and the ability to use technical-scientific language appropriately. Learning skills:

Acquiring the necessary theoretical knowledge and methodologies to address, study, and understand the underlying principles of the various methods and situations the student will encounter in their professional work.

Examples for assigning the exam grade

The assessment of the test takes into account the level of understanding of physical principles, the ability to apply knowledge to problem-solving, the correctness of mathematical procedures, and the clarity of arguments.

Exam not passed (<18/30): the student shows significant gaps in knowledge regarding the fundamental topics of the course, is unable to correctly set up the solution to problems, and makes conceptual and/or procedural errors that compromise the achievement of the course's minimum objectives.

Grade 18–21: the student possesses a basic knowledge of the main topics. They are able to set up simple applied problems, albeit with some inaccuracies in calculations, setup, or the interpretation of results. Scientific terminology is sufficiently appropriate.

Grade 22–25: the student demonstrates a fair knowledge of the course topics and is able to correctly apply the main physical models to solve the proposed problems. Errors are occasional and do not substantially compromise the correctness of the procedure. Arguments are generally clear and coherent.

Grade 26–28: the student shows a good command of the subject matter, correctly setting up and solving even moderately complex problems by using mathematical tools and correctly interpreting the results obtained. They explain concepts precisely and use appropriate scientific terminology. 

Grade 29–30 with honors: the student demonstrates comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of the course topics, addresses even complex problems independently and rigorously, justifies their chosen solution methods with sound reasoning, and critically interprets the results obtained. The presentation is clear, rigorous, and characterized by precise use of the language of physics. Honors are awarded for excellent, error-free performance.

2. D. Halliday, R. Resnick, J. Walker - Fundamentals of Physics, Twelfth edition - Wiley

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions, problem-solving tasks, and an open-ended question. The exam aims to assess the understanding of topics covered during the course, as well as the ability to apply acquired knowledge by identifying and developing appropriate problem-solving strategies.

Evaluation of the exam will take into account the approach to problem-solving, the accuracy of calculations, the precision of arguments, and the coherence of the procedure followed.

The written exam may be followed by an oral interview covering course topics, upon the request of either the student or the instructor. During the oral exam, the following will be assessed: the relevance of answers to the questions asked, the quality of content, t…

Information for students with disabilities and/or DSA.

To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, interested students can request a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, based on the educational objectives and specific needs.It is also possible to contact the CInAP reference teacher (Centre for Active and Participatory Integration - Services for Disabilities and/or DSA) of our Department, Prof. Santina Chiechio.