The importance of multidimensionality in the tunneling effect.
Authorship
D.C.A.G.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
D.C.A.G.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
09.18.2025 09:00
09.18.2025 09:00
Summary
This work consists of an in-depth study of the crucial role played by quantum tunneling in chemical kinetics, focusing on two systems that are particularly sensitive to this phenomenon: the tautomerizations of Thiouracils and the formation of Vitamin D. By means of ab initio simulations, various theoretical models are studied to calculate reaction rate constants using both one-dimensional and multidimensional formulations. The canonical variational transition state theory will be used, comparing different methods to compute the quantum contributions to the rate constant, including one-dimensional models such as Eckart’s, historically relevant but poorly aligned with experimental data, and multidimensional models, where zero curvature tunneling and small curvature tunneling will be analyzed. By comparing the results obtained with the different methods, the study aims to identify which model best represents the real kinetic behavior of the system, thereby determining the importance of taking the multidimensional nature of these into account. This study aims to improve the prediction of reaction rates, along with a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved, offering an essential approach for various fields of research.
This work consists of an in-depth study of the crucial role played by quantum tunneling in chemical kinetics, focusing on two systems that are particularly sensitive to this phenomenon: the tautomerizations of Thiouracils and the formation of Vitamin D. By means of ab initio simulations, various theoretical models are studied to calculate reaction rate constants using both one-dimensional and multidimensional formulations. The canonical variational transition state theory will be used, comparing different methods to compute the quantum contributions to the rate constant, including one-dimensional models such as Eckart’s, historically relevant but poorly aligned with experimental data, and multidimensional models, where zero curvature tunneling and small curvature tunneling will be analyzed. By comparing the results obtained with the different methods, the study aims to identify which model best represents the real kinetic behavior of the system, thereby determining the importance of taking the multidimensional nature of these into account. This study aims to improve the prediction of reaction rates, along with a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved, offering an essential approach for various fields of research.
Direction
FERRO COSTAS, DAVID (Tutorships)
FERRO COSTAS, DAVID (Tutorships)
Court
FERNANDEZ RAMOS, ANTONIO (Chairman)
CASAIS LAIÑO, Mª DEL CARMEN (Secretary)
RODIL RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DEL ROSARIO (Member)
FERNANDEZ RAMOS, ANTONIO (Chairman)
CASAIS LAIÑO, Mª DEL CARMEN (Secretary)
RODIL RODRIGUEZ, MARIA DEL ROSARIO (Member)
Correlation between rainfall events in the Ulla River basin and the measured streamflow
Authorship
A.B.O.
Bachelor of Physics
A.B.O.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
All over this work, the relationship between precipitation and streamflow in the Ulla river basin, the third-longest river in Galicia, will be studied. To this end, we begin with basic concepts of hydrology, specifically the water balance equation, which represents the equilibrium between the inputs and outputs of a hydrological system. These concepts are grounded in fundamental laws, such as the conservation of mass and energy, as well as in physical properties of water, including surface tension and heat capacity. The study adopts an empirical approach, with the analysis centered on daily data of accumulated precipitation and mean streamflow. A key aspect of the work is the estimation of accumulated rainfall over the basin. For this purpose, data recorded by the pluviometers of the MeteoGalicia meteorological network are combined by matching them with measurements from the weather radar located at Monte Xesteiras, Pontevedra. The interpolation is carried out using the following statistical methods: generalized additive model (GAM), ordinary kriging (OK), and inverse distance weighting (IDW). The study period covers a total of sixteen months, which makes it possible to identify and compare seasonal patterns. The results reveal that the response of streamflow to a rainfall event is not immediate but shows a temporal delay. This delay is associated with hydrological processes such as infiltration. The resulting graphs highlight the complexity of establishing a direct relationship between rainfall and streamflow, since the hydrological cycle consists of numerous interdependent processes that are difficult to measure and that modulate streamflow behavior.
All over this work, the relationship between precipitation and streamflow in the Ulla river basin, the third-longest river in Galicia, will be studied. To this end, we begin with basic concepts of hydrology, specifically the water balance equation, which represents the equilibrium between the inputs and outputs of a hydrological system. These concepts are grounded in fundamental laws, such as the conservation of mass and energy, as well as in physical properties of water, including surface tension and heat capacity. The study adopts an empirical approach, with the analysis centered on daily data of accumulated precipitation and mean streamflow. A key aspect of the work is the estimation of accumulated rainfall over the basin. For this purpose, data recorded by the pluviometers of the MeteoGalicia meteorological network are combined by matching them with measurements from the weather radar located at Monte Xesteiras, Pontevedra. The interpolation is carried out using the following statistical methods: generalized additive model (GAM), ordinary kriging (OK), and inverse distance weighting (IDW). The study period covers a total of sixteen months, which makes it possible to identify and compare seasonal patterns. The results reveal that the response of streamflow to a rainfall event is not immediate but shows a temporal delay. This delay is associated with hydrological processes such as infiltration. The resulting graphs highlight the complexity of establishing a direct relationship between rainfall and streamflow, since the hydrological cycle consists of numerous interdependent processes that are difficult to measure and that modulate streamflow behavior.
Direction
Pérez Muñuzuri, Vicente (Tutorships)
Pérez Muñuzuri, Vicente (Tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Implementation of a Compact System for Ionizing Radiation Detection Using an APD
Authorship
N.B.A.
Bachelor of Physics
N.B.A.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
This work presents the development of an ionizing radiation dosimeter based on a silicon avalanche photodiode (APD). The system consists of several functional stages: detection, signal conditioning, and subsequent digitization. The conditioning stage was carried out using an analog circuit designed to amplify and integrate the electrical signals generated by the APD. The signal was then digitized using the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) integrated into the ESP32-C3 microcontroller. Data processing was implemented using MicroPython. A Wi-Fi connection was also established to transmit the measured values in real time to external devices. The circuit was designed using the KiCad software and its performance was simulated using SPICE. Finally, the complete device was assembled in the laboratory and the signals at each stage were analyzed. Technical and economic feasibility of the developed system was also evaluated.
This work presents the development of an ionizing radiation dosimeter based on a silicon avalanche photodiode (APD). The system consists of several functional stages: detection, signal conditioning, and subsequent digitization. The conditioning stage was carried out using an analog circuit designed to amplify and integrate the electrical signals generated by the APD. The signal was then digitized using the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) integrated into the ESP32-C3 microcontroller. Data processing was implemented using MicroPython. A Wi-Fi connection was also established to transmit the measured values in real time to external devices. The circuit was designed using the KiCad software and its performance was simulated using SPICE. Finally, the complete device was assembled in the laboratory and the signals at each stage were analyzed. Technical and economic feasibility of the developed system was also evaluated.
Direction
ALVAREZ POL, HECTOR (Tutorships)
CASAREJOS RUIZ, ENRIQUE (Co-tutorships)
ALVAREZ POL, HECTOR (Tutorships)
CASAREJOS RUIZ, ENRIQUE (Co-tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Scintillation in noble gases and noble gases mixtures: an analytic description for gaseous detectors
Authorship
M.C.C.
Bachelor of Physics
M.C.C.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
Advances in particle physics, as in any other science, are closely linked to the development of the technologies used. The main topic of this work, gaseous detectors, specifically gaseous TPCs,represents one of these technological advances. This study aims to characterize the key aspects of noble gases that are used, or could potentially be used, in such devices. The main objective is to find a theoretical model that is simple yet effective, capable of reflecting the behavior of these gases (primarily xenon), and to compare it with the data obtained for them.
Advances in particle physics, as in any other science, are closely linked to the development of the technologies used. The main topic of this work, gaseous detectors, specifically gaseous TPCs,represents one of these technological advances. This study aims to characterize the key aspects of noble gases that are used, or could potentially be used, in such devices. The main objective is to find a theoretical model that is simple yet effective, capable of reflecting the behavior of these gases (primarily xenon), and to compare it with the data obtained for them.
Direction
GONZALEZ DIAZ, DIEGO (Tutorships)
GONZALEZ DIAZ, DIEGO (Tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Black-Scholes: A bridge between statistical physics and finance
Authorship
J.C.I.
Bachelor of Physics
J.C.I.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
In this final degree work, a review of the model for financial option pricing formulated by Black, Scholes and Merton in 1973 will be made. For this purpose, the relevant financial concepts will be introduced, as well as the mathematical tools necessary to arrive at the Black-Scholes differential equation. A deduction will be made of the two solutions that the equation has depending on the type of derivative we are dealing with, and finally, we will show a series of results with the aim of understanding the behavior of the price of derivatives depending on the different parameters involved in the valuation.
In this final degree work, a review of the model for financial option pricing formulated by Black, Scholes and Merton in 1973 will be made. For this purpose, the relevant financial concepts will be introduced, as well as the mathematical tools necessary to arrive at the Black-Scholes differential equation. A deduction will be made of the two solutions that the equation has depending on the type of derivative we are dealing with, and finally, we will show a series of results with the aim of understanding the behavior of the price of derivatives depending on the different parameters involved in the valuation.
Direction
Varela Cabo, Luis Miguel (Tutorships)
OTERO LEMA, MARTIN (Co-tutorships)
Varela Cabo, Luis Miguel (Tutorships)
OTERO LEMA, MARTIN (Co-tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Colour Superconductivity in Dense Quark Matter
Authorship
I.C.T.
Bachelor of Physics
I.C.T.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
Colour superconductivity in dense quark matter focuses on the behaviour of matter at high densities and low temperatures. In this framework, the relevant degrees of freedom are the light quarks (u, d, s) and the gluons. Before addressing this phenomenon, the basics of the Standard Model and QCD are introduced, with emphasis on key concepts such as asymptotic freedom, confinement and symmetries and their spontaneous breaking. We then turn to conventional superconductivity, reviewing BCS theory and the formation of Cooper pairs. An instability at the Fermi surface favours quark pairing. At asymptotically high densities, pairing is symmetric and leads to the CFL phase, from which essential parameters can be extracted from first principles. At lower densities, the non-negligible mass of the strange quark induces stresses in the pairing, giving rise to a variety of less symmetric superconducting phases. In this regime, only semi-quantitative predictions can be obtained, depending on the effective model employed. Finally, we discuss possible astrophysical observables that could provide indirect evidence for the existence of this exotic state of matter in the densest objects of the Universe: neutron stars.
Colour superconductivity in dense quark matter focuses on the behaviour of matter at high densities and low temperatures. In this framework, the relevant degrees of freedom are the light quarks (u, d, s) and the gluons. Before addressing this phenomenon, the basics of the Standard Model and QCD are introduced, with emphasis on key concepts such as asymptotic freedom, confinement and symmetries and their spontaneous breaking. We then turn to conventional superconductivity, reviewing BCS theory and the formation of Cooper pairs. An instability at the Fermi surface favours quark pairing. At asymptotically high densities, pairing is symmetric and leads to the CFL phase, from which essential parameters can be extracted from first principles. At lower densities, the non-negligible mass of the strange quark induces stresses in the pairing, giving rise to a variety of less symmetric superconducting phases. In this regime, only semi-quantitative predictions can be obtained, depending on the effective model employed. Finally, we discuss possible astrophysical observables that could provide indirect evidence for the existence of this exotic state of matter in the densest objects of the Universe: neutron stars.
Direction
MERINO GAYOSO, CARLOS MIGUEL (Tutorships)
MERINO GAYOSO, CARLOS MIGUEL (Tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Prediction and Financial Analysis Models Using Deep Learning Techniques
Authorship
L.M.C.D.
Bachelor of Physics
L.M.C.D.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
Machine Learning (ML) techniques allow predictions to be made based on variables extracted from a specific domain. ML is a widely used methodology today to address the resolution of complex problems across various scientific fields. The main objective of this work is the development of predictive models in the field of financial markets. For this purpose, time series data extracted from publicly available repositories will be used. The specific objectives to be addressed are as follows: Study and understanding of the problem to be solved. Implementation and training of neural networks using well-known software packages. Evaluation of the predictive capacity of the developed models with respect to asset prices, as well as other inherent characteristics such as volatility or expected return.
Machine Learning (ML) techniques allow predictions to be made based on variables extracted from a specific domain. ML is a widely used methodology today to address the resolution of complex problems across various scientific fields. The main objective of this work is the development of predictive models in the field of financial markets. For this purpose, time series data extracted from publicly available repositories will be used. The specific objectives to be addressed are as follows: Study and understanding of the problem to be solved. Implementation and training of neural networks using well-known software packages. Evaluation of the predictive capacity of the developed models with respect to asset prices, as well as other inherent characteristics such as volatility or expected return.
Direction
GARCIA TAHOCES, PABLO (Tutorships)
GARCIA TAHOCES, PABLO (Tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Spatio-temporal structures near a Hopf bifurcation in reaction-diffusion systems
Authorship
A.D.S.
Bachelor of Physics
A.D.S.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
Nonlinear dynamical systems are widely utilized for the better understanding of complex natural phenomena, such as turbulence, weather evolution or epidemiology. One example of this is the Fitzhugh-Nagumo model, commonly applied to cardiac dynamics or to nerve impulses. In the present work, we head back to this model’s relevance and carry out a fundamental study, obtaining its work regimes through custom-developed software. This allows us to understand the origin of the usefulness of these regimes, which are connected through a Hopf bifurcation.
Nonlinear dynamical systems are widely utilized for the better understanding of complex natural phenomena, such as turbulence, weather evolution or epidemiology. One example of this is the Fitzhugh-Nagumo model, commonly applied to cardiac dynamics or to nerve impulses. In the present work, we head back to this model’s relevance and carry out a fundamental study, obtaining its work regimes through custom-developed software. This allows us to understand the origin of the usefulness of these regimes, which are connected through a Hopf bifurcation.
Direction
Pérez Muñuzuri, Alberto (Tutorships)
Suárez Vázquez, Marcos (Co-tutorships)
Pérez Muñuzuri, Alberto (Tutorships)
Suárez Vázquez, Marcos (Co-tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Neutron generation with ultra-intense lasers
Authorship
C.D.L.M.L.G.
Bachelor of Physics
C.D.L.M.L.G.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
This thesis studies laser-driven neutron generation, using the 7Li(p,n)7Be reaction, through three simulations carried out with the FLUKA code. Each one of them is based on experimental data and has a specific objective: to evaluate FLUKA's capability to simulate neutrons replicating a real experiment, to estimate how many neutrons could be generated with the Laser Laboratory for Acceleration and Applications (L2A2) laser system and to compare the neutron production from this reaction to the one obtained from the d(d,n)3He reaction. The thesis is composed by four chapters. The first one is the introduction, which presents the interest of laser-driven neutron generation and this thesis's objectives. The second one explains the theoretical foundations of laser-driven neutron generation, while the third one describes the performed simulations and their results. The fourth chapter summarizes the thesis's conclusions. In the first simulation it was determined that FLUKA is able to properly simulate the neutron generation, because of the similarities between the results of the simulation and those of the experiment. In the second one, after obtaining a neutron flux below 1e3 n/sr, it was concluded that the L2A2 laser system does not have the needed intensity to be an efficient neutron source. In the third simulation the neutron flux with a lithium target was of 7.19e8 n/sr, while in the experiment with deuterium the flux was of 2.1e9 n/sr, so it was concluded that with the d(d,n)3H reaction more neutrons are generated.
This thesis studies laser-driven neutron generation, using the 7Li(p,n)7Be reaction, through three simulations carried out with the FLUKA code. Each one of them is based on experimental data and has a specific objective: to evaluate FLUKA's capability to simulate neutrons replicating a real experiment, to estimate how many neutrons could be generated with the Laser Laboratory for Acceleration and Applications (L2A2) laser system and to compare the neutron production from this reaction to the one obtained from the d(d,n)3He reaction. The thesis is composed by four chapters. The first one is the introduction, which presents the interest of laser-driven neutron generation and this thesis's objectives. The second one explains the theoretical foundations of laser-driven neutron generation, while the third one describes the performed simulations and their results. The fourth chapter summarizes the thesis's conclusions. In the first simulation it was determined that FLUKA is able to properly simulate the neutron generation, because of the similarities between the results of the simulation and those of the experiment. In the second one, after obtaining a neutron flux below 1e3 n/sr, it was concluded that the L2A2 laser system does not have the needed intensity to be an efficient neutron source. In the third simulation the neutron flux with a lithium target was of 7.19e8 n/sr, while in the experiment with deuterium the flux was of 2.1e9 n/sr, so it was concluded that with the d(d,n)3H reaction more neutrons are generated.
Direction
ALEJO ALONSO, AARON JOSE (Tutorships)
ALEJO ALONSO, AARON JOSE (Tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Energy storage systems
Authorship
M.M.F.
Bachelor of Physics
M.M.F.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
This final degree project reviews current energy storage systems, focusing on their operation, applications, innovations, and future prospects. Five main categories are examined: mechanical systems (flywheels, pumped hydro, and compressed air), electrochemical (conventional and flow batteries), thermal (sensible, latent, and thermochemical heat), chemical (hydrogen and fuel cells), and electrical (supercapacitors and superconducting magnets), highlighting key parameters such as efficiency, energy density, costs, and environmental impact. Additionally, the work analyzes four case studies: two in Galicia, the Sil-Xares-Santiago project (pumped hydro) and the Green H2 Industrial Alliance (renewable hydrogen) ; and two in nearby regions, the supercapacitors in La Palma Island and the lithium-ion batteries in Pego (Portugal). These examples illustrate the technical feasibility and challenges of the technologies in different geographic and energy contexts. The research reveals that while pumped hydro and lithium batteries are mature technologies with high capacity, green hydrogen and supercapacitors offer promising solutions for flexibility and fast response. It concludes that the optimal system choice depends on factors such as scale, location, and grid needs, underscoring the key role of storage in the energy transition.
This final degree project reviews current energy storage systems, focusing on their operation, applications, innovations, and future prospects. Five main categories are examined: mechanical systems (flywheels, pumped hydro, and compressed air), electrochemical (conventional and flow batteries), thermal (sensible, latent, and thermochemical heat), chemical (hydrogen and fuel cells), and electrical (supercapacitors and superconducting magnets), highlighting key parameters such as efficiency, energy density, costs, and environmental impact. Additionally, the work analyzes four case studies: two in Galicia, the Sil-Xares-Santiago project (pumped hydro) and the Green H2 Industrial Alliance (renewable hydrogen) ; and two in nearby regions, the supercapacitors in La Palma Island and the lithium-ion batteries in Pego (Portugal). These examples illustrate the technical feasibility and challenges of the technologies in different geographic and energy contexts. The research reveals that while pumped hydro and lithium batteries are mature technologies with high capacity, green hydrogen and supercapacitors offer promising solutions for flexibility and fast response. It concludes that the optimal system choice depends on factors such as scale, location, and grid needs, underscoring the key role of storage in the energy transition.
Direction
MENDEZ MORALES, TRINIDAD (Tutorships)
Montes Campos, Hadrián (Co-tutorships)
MENDEZ MORALES, TRINIDAD (Tutorships)
Montes Campos, Hadrián (Co-tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Neural networks for target alignment for laser acceleration
Authorship
X.R.R.
Bachelor of Physics
X.R.R.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
This Bachelor’s Degree Final Project explores the feasibility of using neural networks to automate the alignment of targets in laser-driven acceleration experiments based on the Target Normal Sheath Acceleration (TNSA) mechanism. The current method relies on a position sensor that cannot operate under vacuum conditions and must be mounted and dismounted for each use. To overcome these limitations, we propose the use of CMOS camera images of the targets, processed by a neural network that estimates their position. For training, a dataset of over 16,000 images was built, labeled according to the sensor measurements and downscaled to 256x256 pixels. Several convolutional network architectures were evaluated, prioritizing lightweight models suited to the laboratory’s hardware. Results show that the best-performing network achieves a standard deviation of about 10 microns with respect to the sensor, ensuring that most targets remain within the Rayleigh range of the optical system. To guarantee that all targets fall inside this range, an iterative approach is proposed, feasible because the network’s inference time is significantly lower than that of the current method. As future work, we propose validating the method in the final experimental setup and testing its performance with targets made of different materials.
This Bachelor’s Degree Final Project explores the feasibility of using neural networks to automate the alignment of targets in laser-driven acceleration experiments based on the Target Normal Sheath Acceleration (TNSA) mechanism. The current method relies on a position sensor that cannot operate under vacuum conditions and must be mounted and dismounted for each use. To overcome these limitations, we propose the use of CMOS camera images of the targets, processed by a neural network that estimates their position. For training, a dataset of over 16,000 images was built, labeled according to the sensor measurements and downscaled to 256x256 pixels. Several convolutional network architectures were evaluated, prioritizing lightweight models suited to the laboratory’s hardware. Results show that the best-performing network achieves a standard deviation of about 10 microns with respect to the sensor, ensuring that most targets remain within the Rayleigh range of the optical system. To guarantee that all targets fall inside this range, an iterative approach is proposed, feasible because the network’s inference time is significantly lower than that of the current method. As future work, we propose validating the method in the final experimental setup and testing its performance with targets made of different materials.
Direction
ALEJO ALONSO, AARON JOSE (Tutorships)
ALEJO ALONSO, AARON JOSE (Tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Search for astrophysical sources of neutrinos and gamma rays through space-time autocorrelations of atmospheric cascades at the Pierre Auger Observatory
Authorship
M.S.B.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
M.S.B.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
09.15.2025 11:00
09.15.2025 11:00
Summary
This work is a study of cosmic rays focused on the analysis of their arrival directions at Earth and the identification of their astrophysical sources using computational and statistical methods, based on public data from the Pierre Auger Observatory. The study addressed the case in which the distribution of arrival directions of cosmic rays at Earth is isotropic or not, thereby evaluating the hypothesis of isotropy against the existence of sources of transient events, specifically active galactic nuclei. The comparison methodology was based on analyzing the temporal differences of cosmic rays incident in the atmosphere and counting simultaneous events or doublets.
This work is a study of cosmic rays focused on the analysis of their arrival directions at Earth and the identification of their astrophysical sources using computational and statistical methods, based on public data from the Pierre Auger Observatory. The study addressed the case in which the distribution of arrival directions of cosmic rays at Earth is isotropic or not, thereby evaluating the hypothesis of isotropy against the existence of sources of transient events, specifically active galactic nuclei. The comparison methodology was based on analyzing the temporal differences of cosmic rays incident in the atmosphere and counting simultaneous events or doublets.
Direction
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
JESUS DA SILVA MARTINS, MIGUEL ALEXANDRE (Co-tutorships)
CAZON BOADO, LORENZO (Tutorships)
JESUS DA SILVA MARTINS, MIGUEL ALEXANDRE (Co-tutorships)
Court
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
GONZALEZ FERREIRO, ELENA (Chairman)
VAZQUEZ RAMALLO, MANUEL (Secretary)
BAO VARELA, Mª CARMEN (Member)
Conformational Study of Cycloalkanes
Authorship
M.S.B.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
M.S.B.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
09.18.2025 09:00
09.18.2025 09:00
Summary
In this work, a conformational study of cycloalkanes with rings containing between six and ten carbon atoms has been carried out using a conformational search algorithm for cyclic systems developed by Professor Fernández-Ramos’s group, at both high and low computational levels. First, low-level calculations were performed using the Hartree-Fock method, and the minima on the potential energy surface (PES) were studied. To explore a broader conformational space and gain a more detailed perspective of the possible conformations and their interconversion, transition states (TS) were also studied, which could subsequently evolve into stable conformations (PES minima). Density Functional Theory (DFT) was used as the high-level method to optimize the structures obtained at the low level. The analysis of the structures was based on the comparison of Cremer-Pople (CP) coordinates, for which a Python script was developed, and visual comparison with conformers reported in scientific publications. The experimentally found conformers mostly correspond to those described in the literature, although in some cases new structures were also discovered.
In this work, a conformational study of cycloalkanes with rings containing between six and ten carbon atoms has been carried out using a conformational search algorithm for cyclic systems developed by Professor Fernández-Ramos’s group, at both high and low computational levels. First, low-level calculations were performed using the Hartree-Fock method, and the minima on the potential energy surface (PES) were studied. To explore a broader conformational space and gain a more detailed perspective of the possible conformations and their interconversion, transition states (TS) were also studied, which could subsequently evolve into stable conformations (PES minima). Density Functional Theory (DFT) was used as the high-level method to optimize the structures obtained at the low level. The analysis of the structures was based on the comparison of Cremer-Pople (CP) coordinates, for which a Python script was developed, and visual comparison with conformers reported in scientific publications. The experimentally found conformers mostly correspond to those described in the literature, although in some cases new structures were also discovered.
Direction
FERNANDEZ RAMOS, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
CASTIÑEIRA REIS, MARTA (Co-tutorships)
FERNANDEZ RAMOS, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
CASTIÑEIRA REIS, MARTA (Co-tutorships)
Court
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, BERTA (Chairman)
ESTEVEZ VALCARCEL, CARLOS MANUEL (Secretary)
YEBRA BIURRUN, MARIA DEL CARMEN (Member)
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, BERTA (Chairman)
ESTEVEZ VALCARCEL, CARLOS MANUEL (Secretary)
YEBRA BIURRUN, MARIA DEL CARMEN (Member)
Orbital Dynamics in the Sun-Jupiter System: A Planar Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem Approach
Authorship
A.S.C.
Bachelor of Physics
A.S.C.
Bachelor of Physics
Defense date
09.16.2025 10:30
09.16.2025 10:30
Summary
The Planar Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem (PCRTBP) is a fundamental model in celestial mechanics. This work presents a detailed analysis of its theoretical framework and the stability of its solutions, the Lagrange points, applying it to the Sun-Jupiter system as a case study. Starting from the two-body problem, the PCRTBP equations are developed and the positions of its equilibrium points for the Sun-Jupiter system are determined. The dynamics in their vicinity are then numerically explored, allowing for the visualization of the instability of the collinear points and the stability of the triangular ones. This stability is theoretically justified through a linear analysis that reveals the origin of the characteristic libration motion at the L4 and L5 points. Finally, the work culminates in the application of the entire model to the Trojan asteroid (588) Achilles, demonstrating that its actual trajectory corresponds to a stable libration orbit around the L4 point. This result validates the effectiveness of the PCRTBP for describing co-orbital phenomena in the Solar System.
The Planar Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem (PCRTBP) is a fundamental model in celestial mechanics. This work presents a detailed analysis of its theoretical framework and the stability of its solutions, the Lagrange points, applying it to the Sun-Jupiter system as a case study. Starting from the two-body problem, the PCRTBP equations are developed and the positions of its equilibrium points for the Sun-Jupiter system are determined. The dynamics in their vicinity are then numerically explored, allowing for the visualization of the instability of the collinear points and the stability of the triangular ones. This stability is theoretically justified through a linear analysis that reveals the origin of the characteristic libration motion at the L4 and L5 points. Finally, the work culminates in the application of the entire model to the Trojan asteroid (588) Achilles, demonstrating that its actual trajectory corresponds to a stable libration orbit around the L4 point. This result validates the effectiveness of the PCRTBP for describing co-orbital phenomena in the Solar System.
Direction
NICOLAS AVILA, BEGOÑA (Tutorships)
NICOLAS AVILA, BEGOÑA (Tutorships)
Court
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
LIÑARES BEIRAS, JESUS (Chairman)
AROSA LOBATO, YAGO (Secretary)
VILLANUEVA LOPEZ, MARIA (Member)
Undergraduate dissertation
Authorship
M.J.S.P.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
M.J.S.P.
Double bachelor degree in Physics and Chemistry
Defense date
09.18.2025 09:00
09.18.2025 09:00
Summary
Eutrophication is an environmental issue caused by the accumulation of nutrients, primarily phosphate and nitrate. The main consequences include the proliferation of microorganisms and aquatic plants, which lead to anoxic conditions and hinder photosynthesis. This results in a decline in water quality and damage to aquatic ecosystems. To address the problems caused by eutrophication in aquatic environments, nutrient reduction was investigated using iron hydroxides and Technosols. The effectiveness of these adsorbent materials for phosphate retention was evaluated as a function of pH in the presence of simple organic acids, used as precursors of natural organic matter. Additionally, the “ferrous wheel” hypothesis was applied to nitrate removal through its reduction in the presence of ferrihydrite or Technosol and simple organic acids. The results confirm that this approach is a viable alternative to mitigate the problem. Regarding phosphate, ferrihydrite demonstrated significant adsorption capacity, which decreased with increasing pH and in the presence of organic acids due to anion competition. In the case of nitrate, its removal was found to depend on both the pH and the nature of the organic acid, owing to their influence on the redox processes involved in anion reduction.
Eutrophication is an environmental issue caused by the accumulation of nutrients, primarily phosphate and nitrate. The main consequences include the proliferation of microorganisms and aquatic plants, which lead to anoxic conditions and hinder photosynthesis. This results in a decline in water quality and damage to aquatic ecosystems. To address the problems caused by eutrophication in aquatic environments, nutrient reduction was investigated using iron hydroxides and Technosols. The effectiveness of these adsorbent materials for phosphate retention was evaluated as a function of pH in the presence of simple organic acids, used as precursors of natural organic matter. Additionally, the “ferrous wheel” hypothesis was applied to nitrate removal through its reduction in the presence of ferrihydrite or Technosol and simple organic acids. The results confirm that this approach is a viable alternative to mitigate the problem. Regarding phosphate, ferrihydrite demonstrated significant adsorption capacity, which decreased with increasing pH and in the presence of organic acids due to anion competition. In the case of nitrate, its removal was found to depend on both the pH and the nature of the organic acid, owing to their influence on the redox processes involved in anion reduction.
Direction
Fiol López, Sarah (Tutorships)
Antelo Martínez, Juan (Co-tutorships)
Fiol López, Sarah (Tutorships)
Antelo Martínez, Juan (Co-tutorships)
Court
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, BERTA (Chairman)
ESTEVEZ VALCARCEL, CARLOS MANUEL (Secretary)
YEBRA BIURRUN, MARIA DEL CARMEN (Member)
FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ, BERTA (Chairman)
ESTEVEZ VALCARCEL, CARLOS MANUEL (Secretary)
YEBRA BIURRUN, MARIA DEL CARMEN (Member)