ECTS - University of Pisa
| Modules | Area | Type | Hours | Teacher(s) | |
| STORIA CONCETTUALE DELLA FISICA | FIS/08 | LEZIONI | 48 |
|
Examination of the development of physical theories and methods from classical and mediaeval times through mid-20th century. The details will change each year based on the students' interests and experience. The parallel developments in Western (i.e., greco-latin) and non-Western cultures (e.g., China, India, Islam) will also enter. Topics include:
elementary principles of realism, space, time, displacement and change
development of kinematic and dynamical methods and the early use of geometrical and algebraic mathematical methods
concept of natural laws and regularities
use of symmetries and conservation principles from Aristotle through contemporary physics
the concept of field and active space
the role of the "paranormal" (i.e. magical thinking and methods) in the early modern period
a paper based on original sources (not merely a summary ala Wikipedia), selected on consultation, examining the development of some physical concept or examining a historical development or period.
lingua inglese, fisica 1,2, matematica (analise)
geometria sarebbe utile
Language: English
other: Fisica 1,2, matematica fino a analise 2
Lectures -- distance lecturing -- in English with bilingual discussions
Basic concepts of space, time, dynamics, force (from classical to 17th century)
Introduction of empirical methods to study natural phenomena
Application of mathematical reasoning to physical problems (14-19 century)
Extension to action-at-a-distance, fields (17 - 20 century)
A review, written essay based on original literature, following a physical concept and its development.
Students are recommended to contact the instructor before beginning the course.
