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Physics for Biomedicine (PHYC10007)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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This subject will develop students' appreciation of the importance of physical principles to biomedicine as well as their understanding of the principles underpinning human structure and function, medical diagnostics and therapeutics. Lectures for this subject contain an extensive range of live in-lecture demonstrations where many of the topics are demonstrated with experiments using apparatus from the School of Physics collection.

Physics for Biomedicine provides the fundamental physics concepts required to understand many biological and medical applications. By taking this subject you will study the mechanics behind the movement of the human body, the physical principles of various human systems and the biophysics that underpin cell biology. You will also learn concepts central to medical imaging and diagnostics. Physics for Biomedicine will help you develop your problem solving and laboratory skills in the context of the medical applications of physics.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • understand and explain the importance of physical principles to biological and environmental sciences;
  • understand and explain the physics principles of translational mechanics, light and mechanical waves, fluids, electricity and magnetism, atomic, radiation and imaging physics in the context of biomedical applications;
  • apply these principles using logical reasoning, together with appropriate mathematical reasoning, to a variety of familiar and novel situations and problems in the biological and environmental sciences; and
  • acquire experimental data using a range of measurement instruments and interpret these data.

Generic skills

A student who completes this subject should be able to:

  • explain their understanding of scientific principles and applications lucidly, both in writing and orally;
  • acquire and interpret experimental data and design experimental investigations;
  • participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions, laboratory and study groups;
  • think independently and analytically, and direct their own learning;
  • manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular practical and tutorial classes, tests and the examination.

Last updated: 8 November 2024