Physics

GENERAL OBJECTIVES: The main aim of the course is to introduce students to the basic equations describing fluid flows by mean of a careful mathematical treatment of the involved physical aspects. The Lagrangian and Eulerian views will be introduced and their applications to both ideal and realistic fluids and gases presented and discussed. In particular, the unavoidable numerical treatment of dynamics of gases and fluids in astrophysical conditions will be discussed. The, Lagrangian, Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics method (SPH) will be presented as one of the best suited to applications where a body force, like gravity, is present. At the end of the course the students should be able to deal with methods and basic techniques to deal with problems of dynamics of fluids in both terrestrial and astrophysical context. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: A - Knowledge and understanding OF 1) To know the constitutive equations underlying fluid dynamics and energetics. OF 2) To understand the physical processes that control the evolution of fluids, from gases to liquids and plasmas. OF 3) To understand the differences of the fluid dynamics in a terrestrial context respect to the astrophysical one. B - Application skills OF 4) To be able to apply, both on a theoretical and numerical side, the acquired knowledge to the interpretation and explanation of phenomena involving fluids in terrestrial and astrophysical context. C - Autonomy of judgment OF 5) To be able to evaluate the coherence between the physical framework and the mathematical scheme of representation adopted. D - Communication skills To be able to describe in a clear and critical way the contents of the various topics approached in the course. E - Ability to learn OF 6) Have the ability to deal with available didactic and scientific reference textbooks and papers in order to further explore some of the topics introduced during the course.