FISICA E STATISTICAModule Physics
Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: REGINA MARIA CHIECHIOExpected Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
The student is expected to acquire basic knowledge of physics and mathematics applied to biomedical problems. In particular, the student should know the main physical quantities, measurement systems, and the fundamental principles of mechanics, statics and dynamics of fluids, thermology, electricity, wave phenomena and radiation, with reference to physiological, biological and medical applications.
Applying knowledge and understanding
The student should be able to apply basic physical laws to the understanding of simple biological and physiological phenomena and to the correct use of professional instruments. The student should also be able to solve simple applied exercises and interpret physical quantities and units of measurement used in the biomedical field.
Making judgements
The student should develop the ability to identify the relevant physical quantities in simple biomedical problems and to evaluate the consistency of the results obtained, also with reference to units of measurement and orders of magnitude.
Communication skills
The student should be able to clearly describe the main physical concepts covered during the course, using appropriate basic scientific language.
Learning skills
The student should acquire the conceptual tools needed to continue independently the study of physical and biophysical topics useful for understanding physiological, biological and medical processes.
Course Structure
Required Prerequisites
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance is mandatory according to the Degree Course regulations. Active participation in lectures and classroom exercises is important to support the progressive understanding of the topics and the application of physical concepts to biomedical problems.
Detailed Course Content
Textbook Information
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Physical quantities and their measurement – Physical quantities, units and systems of measurement, dimensional equations. Measurement tools. . Scalar and vector quantities. Operations between carriers. | |
| 2 | Recall of mechanics and notions of Biomechanics - Kinematics. Circular motion and harmonic motion. . Principles of dynamics. Work. Power. Power and efficiency. Moment. Static. Elasticity. Levers. Physiological levers. Bone fractures (general information). | |
| 3 | Recall on fluids and applications in biological systems - Density. Viscosity. Hydrostatic pressure. Statics of fluids. Stevino's law. Pascal's principle. Archimedes' principle. Drip. Transfusion. Withdrawal. Drainage. Dynamics of ideal liquids. Bernoulli's theorem. Aneurysm and stenosis. Real liquids. Poiseuille relation. Hydraulic resistance. Sphygmomanometry. | |
| 4 | Thermometry and thermoregulation – Temperature and heat. Temperature measurement. Thermometric scales. Clinical thermometers. Specific heat. Thermal balance. State transitions. Heat transmission. Energy balance in the human body. Basal metabolic power. | |
| 5 | Electrical and bioelectric phenomena – Electric charges and fields. . Electric current. Ohm's laws. Elementary circuits. Joule effect. Defibrillator. Risks associated with the use of electricity. | |
| 6 | Waves and radiation – Wave phenomena. Period and frequency. Breadth and energy. Mechanical waves. The sound. Sound intensity. Sound pressure and decibels. Phonendoscope. Ultrasound in medicine. | |
| 7 | Electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic spectrum. Radiation in diagnostics and therapy. Diagnostics with X-rays. Radioisotopes and nuclear medicine. Radiotherapy. Biological effects of ionizing radiation. Notes on dosimetry and radioprotection. |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
Learning assessment is aimed at verifying the achievement of the intended learning outcomes of the course, with particular reference to the knowledge of basic physical principles, the ability to apply such knowledge to the solution of simple biomedical problems, and the correct use of scientific terminology. During the course, classroom exercises and ongoing assessments may be carried out for self-evaluation purposes and in preparation for the final examination. Assessment will take into account the correctness of the answers, reasoning skills, the appropriate use of scientific language, and the ability to apply the acquired knowledge.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
- Define a physical quantity and distinguish between scalar and vector quantities.
- Describe the physical meaning of work, energy and power, indicating their respective units of measurement.
- Explain Pascal’s principle.
- Explain the difference between heat and temperature and describe the main mechanisms of heat transfer.
- Describe Ohm’s law.