Physics of the Brain

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The brain is the most complex organ in the human body. Paradoxically, it helps us understand the world but little about itself. Despite many breakthroughs in psychology and neuroscience, the brain remains largely a mystery. However, it always behaves according to the known laws of physics! In this course, the structure and functions of the brain will be discussed on the basis of fundamental physics principles, including topics such as soft-tissue mechanics; bioelectricity and biomagnetism; transport; fluid dynamics; the energetics of spiking, quantum phenomena; and neuronal networks. After studying the physics-related concepts behind the brain's functions, students will investigate both classical and cutting-edge techniques used for imaging the brain and for measuring its activity. This course will also survey how new discoveries in neurophysics and neuroscience have advanced our understanding about the neuronal system. This course is appropriate for students interested in the link between physics and medical fields.