640-124 Biomedical Physics

Coordinator

Semester

Subject Description

An understanding of physics is essential in describing many biological processes and is central to the development of modern medical diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. This subject covers a number of areas in physics illustrated by applications to biological systems and in clinical technology. Selected topics in the areas of mechanics, properties of matter, thermal physics, optics, acoustics electricity and magnetism, atomic physics and nuclear physics will be covered.

On completion of this subject students should comprehend the laws of motion; the physics of vision and hearing; electricity and magnetism; elementary electronic circuits; the properties, hazards and applications of ionising radiation and biological imaging using light, ultrasound, x-rays and other techniques.

As part of this course, students will develop skills in analysing and solving physical and other quantitative problems.

Assessment

A 3-hour written examination at the end of the semester, plus written assignments during the semester. Students must satisfactorily complete assignment work as specified at the start of the semester.

Prescribed Texts

• Kane J W and Sternheim N M, Physics. 3rd ed., Wiley.