What is your first reaction when
you hear the word “Physics”?
SCIENCE
A systematized body of knowledge that is
based on facts gathered through unbiased
observations, experiences and experiments in
order uncover general truths or operations of
fundamental law or phenomenon.
BRANCHES OF SCIENCE
Where can we locate Physics?
Science
Social Science Applied Science Natural Science
- deals with human behavior primarily in its - application of the theoretical - deals with the understanding and description of nature
social and cultural aspects sciences
Physical Science Biological Science
- deals with the study of non-living things - deals with the understanding and description
of nature
Astronomy Chemistry - studies the substances that make up matter and how
matter changes, how these individual atoms can form
- scientific study of the universe, celestial objects such chemical bonds to create larger compounds and then,
as stars, planets and other cosmic phenomena be involved in different chemical reactions
Geology Physics
- study of Earth; study of things like the minerals in rocks - deals with the study of the very basic things found in
and soil, fossils and erosion patterns caused by wind and nature; study of matter and energy and their relationship
water
DOING
SCIENCE
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TWO BRANCHES OF PHYSICS
CLASSICAL PHYSICS – involves traditional topics in Physics
that are recognized and developed before the beginning of the
20th century; topics are concerned with matter and energy
under normal conditions (macrolevel)
MODERN PHYSICS – refers to the concepts in Physics that
have surfaced since the beginning of the 20th century up to the
present date; behavior of matter and energy under extreme
conditions
CLASSICAL PHYSICS
MECHANICS – study of forces acting on bodies, whether at rest
or in motion
OPTICS – study of light waves and their interactions
ACOUSTICS – study of the production and propagation of sound
waves
THERMODYNAMICS – study of the relationships between heat
and other forms of energy
ELECTROMAGNETISM – study of the properties of electric
current and magnetism and their interaction
MODERN PHYSICS
RELATIVISTIC PHYSICS – the study of phenomena that take place in forms of reference that is
in motion with respect to an observer
SOLID STATE PHYSICS – study of all properties of solid materials including electrical
conduction in crystals of semiconductors and metals
CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS – study of the properties of condensed materials (solids, and
liquids and those intermediate between them and dense gas) with the ultimate goal and
developing new material with better properties
LOW TEMPERATURE PHYSICS – the study of the production and maintenance of temperature
down to almost absolute zero and the various phenomena that occur at such temperature
ATOMIC AND NUCLEAR PHYSICS – the study of the components, structure and behavior of
the nucleus of the atom
QUANTUM PHYSICS – the study of the discrete nature of phenomena at the atomic and
subatomic levels, its focus is on the invisible units of energy called quanta as described by
the Quantum Theory
Physics is the natural science that explores the behavior
of matter, its fundamental constituents, and their
interactions. It delves into the study of motion, energy,
and force, unraveling the mysteries of the observable
universe.
To describe the basic phenomena in nature is essentially the
realm of physics. It aims to describe the function of everything
around us, from the movement of tiny charged particles to the
motion of people, cars, and spaceships.
Almost everything around you can be described quite accurately
by the laws of physics.
Applications of Physics
Knowledge of physics is useful in everyday situations.
• Helps you understand how microwave ovens work, or an
electric kettle works.
• Allows you to understand the hazards of radiation and
mitigate the hazard easily.
• Explains the reason why a black car radiator helps remove
heat in a car engine, and why a white roof helps keep the
inside of a house cool.
Physics is the foundation of many important disciplines and
contributes directly to others.
• In chemistry, which deals with the interactions of atoms and
molecules—is rooted in atomic and molecular physics.
• Most branches of engineering are applied physics.
• In architecture, physics is at the heart of structural stability,
and is involved in the acoustics, heating, lighting, and cooling
of buildings.
• Geologists rely heavily on physics, such as radioactive dating
of rocks, earthquake analysis, and heat transfer in the Earth.
Physics has many applications in the biological sciences. On
the microscopic level, it helps describe the properties of cell
walls and cell membranes.
On the macroscopic level, it can explain the heat, work, and power
associated with the human body.
Physics is involved in medical diagnostics, such as x-rays, magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasonic blood flow measurements.
The Language of Physics
Mathematics is the
alphabet with which
God has written the
universe.
– Galileo Galilei
Mathematics and physics share an intimate
relationship.
Expressing Laws and Theories
Mathematical equations allow us to express physical laws and theories
precisely.
Example: Newton’s laws of motion are elegantly captured using
mathematical formulas.
Quantitative Descriptions
Scientists use mathematical models to represent physical quantities,
relationships, and behaviors in describing natural phenomena.
Example: Calculating the trajectory of a projectile
Inspiration and Insight:
Physics inspires new mathematical techniques. Mathematicians draw
inspiration from theories like general relativity and quantum mechanics
to create novel mathematical tools.
Example: Discovery of Bose-Einstein Condensate
Thus, mathematics is inseparable from physics.
PHYSICS IS LIFE!