27533 - Physics 1

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student knows the basic principles of the the motion of bodies, of the thermodynamical behaviour of natural matter, and of the oscillatory phenomena and is able to solve simple physical problems.

Course contents

The course is divided into two parts of approximately 34 hours each. At the end of each part, an optional midterm assessment is offered.

Recommended prerequisites: basic knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, elementary functions, derivatives, and simple integrals.

First Part

Physical quantities, units of measurement, observations, and measurement uncertainties. Kinematics of a particle in one and more dimensions. Dynamics of a particle. Work, energy, and conservation principles. Linear momentum and collisions. Kinematics of rigid bodies. Rotational dynamics. Gravitation and Kepler’s laws.

Second Part

Static equilibrium and elasticity. Fluid statics and principles of fluid dynamics. Thermal phenomena, thermal expansion, and gas laws. Heat and the First Law of Thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Second Law of Thermodynamics and entropy. Oscillations, waves, and sound.

Problem-solving sessions are devoted to the application of theoretical concepts to physical problems, with particular emphasis on modelling, the correct use of physical quantities and units, and the interpretation of results.

Readings/Bibliography

equired Material

Lecture slides, problem sets, and supplementary materials made available by the instructor through the University’s Virtuale platform.

Recommended Textbooks

• D. C. Giancoli, Physics for Scientists and Engineers, Pearson.
• P. Mazzoldi, M. Nigro, C. Voci, Physics Vol. 1: Mechanics and Thermodynamics (or equivalent introductory university physics textbook covering mechanics and thermodynamics).

Additional reference material may be suggested during the course and made available through Virtuale platform.

Teaching methods

The course consists of lectures and classroom problem-solving sessions. Lectures introduce the fundamental principles of classical physics, while the problem-solving sessions guide students in applying these principles to quantitative problems.

The teaching activities are designed to develop both conceptual understanding of physical phenomena and the ability to formulate and solve elementary physics problems by selecting appropriate models and critically interpreting the results.

Assessment methods

Learning outcomes are assessed through a written examination followed by a short oral discussion of the written work.

The written examination includes multiple-choice questions, requests for formulas and definitions, and the solution of numerical or conceptual problems similar tot those solved during the problem-solving sessions in class (4 in total). The written test evaluates students’ knowledge of the physical principles covered in the course, their ability to use physical quantities and units correctly, and their competence in setting up and solving elementary physics problems.

Two optional midterm tests are offered during the semester, corresponding to the two parts of the syllabus. Successful completion of both tests may contribute to the final assessment according to procedures communicated by the instructor at the beginning of the course and published on Virtuale.

The oral discussion, following the written examination, aims to verify students’ understanding of their solutions, their reasoning processes, and their ability to establish connections among the different topics covered in the course.

Assessment Criteria

• 18–19/30: basic knowledge of the main topics; ability to solve simple problems with some uncertainty.
• 20–24/30: adequate understanding of the principal concepts and ability to apply standard formulas and procedures.
• 25–29/30: good command of the course topics, correct problem-solving approach, and ability to connect different concepts.
• 30–30 cum laude: comprehensive knowledge of the syllabus, autonomous problem-solving skills, rigorous use of scientific terminology, and critical interpretation of results.

The use of generative Artificial Intelligence tools during examinations is not permitted. Any use constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

The course makes use of the Virtuale e-learning platform, lecture slides, classroom board work, multimedia presentations, and problem-solving materials. Virtuale serves as the primary channel for distributing teaching materials, exercises, and course-related communications.

Generative AI tools may be used during individual study as support for summarization, reformulation of concepts, and self-assessment activities. However, they do not replace the study of official course materials and may not be used during examinations.

Office hours

See the website of Erika Brattich