Ateneo - UPO

Introduction to the course: from basic physics to applications. Radiation-matter interaction, in particular for ionising radiation. Radiation detectors and first applications to environmental and health physics. Operating principles and applications of the laser. Operating principles of optical and electron microscopy with some applications. Working principle of semiconductor diode and applications: LED, photovoltaic cell. Case study: study of the energy balance of a low environmental impact house with assessment of heat exchanges with the environment and use of a photovoltaic system. Case study: Evaluation of the quality of medical images, for example: contrast angiography.

Provide a solid foundation on the principles of operation of devices based on physical technologies, including: radiation detectors, lasers, optical and electron microscopes, LEDs, photovoltaic cells. The student should be able to understand the role of these devices for various environmental and medical applications, including through case studies. The student should be able to make the connection between fundamental physics principles and applications. He/she should be able to thoroughly understand the specialized literature and keep in touch with technological developments.

- Knowledge and understanding:
Acquisition of methods and operating principles of devices widely used for applications of physics to the environment and health.

- Applying knowledge and understanding:
Knowing how to identify the appropriate methods and devices to address environmental and medical problems that can benefit from physical technologies.

- Making judgements:
To be able to critically analyse the recent literature on the applications of physics to environmental and health issues.

- Learning skills:
Acquisition of some mastery of the literature on the applications studied, so that one can expand his/her knowledge following future technological advances.