Advanced Topics in Physics

Knowledge of physical phenomena and methods, which are compulsory for the study of geophysics: gravitational field; dynamics of rigid bodies; oscillatory systems and wave phenomena; basic theory of electromagnetic fields. The discussion of these topics requires the knowledge of some mathematical concepts (differential operators, partial differential equations and basic methods for their analytical solution), which are introduced during the lectures.

At the end of the course unit, the students will acquire:
1) Knowledge skills (ability to describe, in correct mathematical and physical terms, the motion of rigid bodies, the gravitational field, the behavior of oscillatory systems and wave phenomena, the propagation of electromagnetic waves; ability to solve problems, referred to these topics);
2) Communication skills (ability of exposing scientific topics, related to basic elements of mechanics and electrodynamics);
3) Learning skills (ability to read scientific papers and books to improve the knowledge on the topics introduced during the lectures).