- Docente: Daniela Cavalcoli
- Credits: 6
- SSD: FIS/03
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Materials Science (cod. 6830)
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from Oct 22, 2025 to Jan 14, 2026
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course, the student possesses basic knowledge of the laws of Newtonian mechanics and thermodynamics. They are capable of applying general concepts and fundamental laws of kinematics and dynamics, energy exchanges, and transformations between different forms of energy to solve problems, particularly in the field of materials (state diagrams, thermodynamic potentials).
Course contents
Mechanics: Physical quantities and units of measurement. Kinematics and dynamics of the point mass. Work and energy. Mechanics of point mass and many body systems and mechanics of rigid bodies. Deformable solids and elasticity. Fluid mechanics. Numerical exercises. Applications of mechanics to the study of materials.
Thermodynamics: elements of thermology. First law of thermodynamics, conservation of energy and thermodynamic transformations. States of aggregation of matter. Second law of thermodynamics. Thermodynamic potentials. Numerical exercises.
Readings/Bibliography
Halliday and Resnick's Principles of Physics, 11th Edition, Global Edition
Any edition.
The lecture slides are available on the virtual platform.
Solved numerical exercises and explanatory videos are also available on the virtual platform.
Teaching methods
Lectures and exercises in the classroom with slides and / or blackboard (traditional or electronic)
Assessment methods
Student learning is assessed through a written exam and an oral exam. In order to be admitted to the oral exam, the written exam must be passed with at least a satisfactory grade. The written exam contributes to the final grade and remains valid throughout the entire exam session.
During the written exam, students are allowed to use a calculator and consult the textbook; however, the use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited.
The exam is intended to verify the achievement of the course objectives, including the acquisition of basic knowledge of Newtonian mechanics and thermodynamics. The written test specifically assesses the student’s ability to apply the fundamental laws of classical physics to the solution of simple problems.
Students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities are advised to contact the University Office in charge in advance (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ). The office will be responsible for proposing any necessary accommodations to the interested students, which must, however, be submitted at least 15 days in advance for approval by the instructor, who will assess their suitability in relation to the learning objectives of the course.
Teaching tools
slides and / or blackboard (traditional or electronic)
Office hours
See the website of Daniela Cavalcoli
SDGs



This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.