MEDICAL PHYSICS AND STATISTICS

Module MEDICAL PHYSICS

The Medical Physics module aims to teach basic Physics and Mathematics with simple applications to biomedical problems. The goal is to ensure a uniform level of preparation for all students in preparation for the specific knowledge required later in the degree program. In particular, students are expected to acquire knowledge of some fundamental physical laws and techniques necessary for understanding physiological, biological and medical processes, as well as to learn basic concepts useful for the proper use of instrumentation employed in professional settings.

Lectures and classroom exercises.

If the course is delivered in blended or distance learning mode, any necessary changes may be introduced with respect to what was previously stated, to comply with the planned program and the syllabus.

Information for students with disabilities and/or specific Learning Disorders (LDs)

To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current legislation, interested students may request a personal meeting to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, based on their learning objectives and specific needs.

Students may also contact our Department's representative of CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration - Services for Disabilities and/or LDs).

Basic knowledge of Algebra and Geometry is required.

Physical quantities and their measurement – ​​Physical quantities, units and systems of measurement, dimensional equations. Functional relations and graphical representations. Scalars and vectors. Operations between vectors.

Mechanics and notions of Biomechanics – Kinematics. Circular motion and harmonic motion. Momentum. Principles of dynamics. Work. Energy. Power and efficiency. Momentum. Statics. Elasticity. Physiological statics. Bone fractures (general).

Fluids and applications in biological systems – Density. Viscosity. Hydrostatic pressure. Fluid statics. Stevino’s law. Pascal’s principle. Archimedes’ principle. Dynamics of ideal liquids. Bernoulli’s theorem. Aneurysm and stenosis. Real liquids. Poiseuille’s relation. Hydraulic resistance and Reynolds number, Sphygmomanometry. Sedimentation. Centrifugation. Diffusion. Osmosis.

Thermodynamics – Temperature and heat. Measurement of temperature. Thermometric scales. Clinical thermometers. Specific heat. Thermal equilibrium. Phase transitions. Heat transmission. Energy balance in the human body. Basal metabolic power.

Electric and magnetic phenomena – Charges and electric fields. Capacitances and capacitors. Electric current and Ohm's laws. Joule effect. Electrical phenomena in biological systems. Electromagnetism and applications.

Waves and radiations – Wave phenomena. Period and frequency. Amplitude and energy. Elastic waves and applications. Electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic spectrum. Notes on geometric optics. Optical instrumentation and visual function. Electromagnetic radiation in medicine. Ionizing radiations.

- D. Scannicchio, E. Giroletti "Elementi di Fisica Biomedica", EdiSES

1. Describe the principle of conservation of mechanical energy.
2. Statics and equilibrium conditions: application to joints.
3. Fluid statics: Stevino's law.
4. Fluid dynamics and applications: continuity equation and Bernoulli's theorem.
5. Temperature measurements and thermal expansion of solids.