What is Physics: Definition and 990 Discussions

Physics (from Ancient Greek: φυσική (ἐπιστήμη), romanized: physikḗ (epistḗmē), lit. 'knowledge of nature', from φύσις phýsis 'nature') is the natural science that studies matter, its motion and behavior through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. Physics is one of the most fundamental scientific disciplines, and its main goal is to understand how the universe behaves.Physics is one of the oldest academic disciplines and, through its inclusion of astronomy, perhaps the oldest. Over much of the past two millennia, physics, chemistry, biology, and certain branches of mathematics were a part of natural philosophy, but during the Scientific Revolution in the 17th century these natural sciences emerged as unique research endeavors in their own right. Physics intersects with many interdisciplinary areas of research, such as biophysics and quantum chemistry, and the boundaries of physics are not rigidly defined. New ideas in physics often explain the fundamental mechanisms studied by other sciences and suggest new avenues of research in academic disciplines such as mathematics and philosophy.
Advances in physics often enable advances in new technologies. For example, advances in the understanding of electromagnetism, solid-state physics, and nuclear physics led directly to the development of new products that have dramatically transformed modern-day society, such as television, computers, domestic appliances, and nuclear weapons; advances in thermodynamics led to the development of industrialization; and advances in mechanics inspired the development of calculus.

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  1. tanzeelaanum

    What drives a dedicated physicist to explore the wonders of the universe?

    Hello Everyone, I am thrilled to join this esteemed Physics Forum, a space where the wonders of the universe are explored and discussed with fervor. Allow me to introduce myself as a dedicated aficionado of all things physics, driven by an insatiable curiosity to delve into the depths of this...
  2. panda02

    Where Should the Pivot Be Placed to Balance a See-Saw?

    Torque_left = 100 kg * 1 m = 100 kg·m Torque_right = 200 kg * (13 - x) m = 200(13 - x) kg·m 100 kg·m = 200(13 - x) kg·m 100 = 200(13 - x) x = 12.5 meters pivot = 12.5 m
  3. L

    Can the Speed of Light Limit Our Cosmos Observation?

    How the physics and science limit our cosmos observation and link it to speed of light? I could not find any equation, study or science that can support and limit our observation parameters.
  4. MatinSAR

    Change in reading of the scale when putting ball in a container of alcohol

    The container and water inside it are at rest. ##F_{net,y}=ma_y## ##N - (m_{container}+m_{water})g = 0 ## ##N = (m_{container}+m_{water})g## ##m_{container}+m_{water}=700g## ##m_{container}+\rho_{water} V=700g## ##m_{container}+0.8(10*10*8)=700g## ##m_{container}=60g=0.06kg## Now we put a ball...
  5. S

    S=u*t+a*t^2/2 VS ratio 1:2:3:5... t1/t10= ...

    Hello! I can do this task just using this formula s=u*t+a*t^2/2. But just saw an example where someone used this Galileo toerem. Here is task: "An observer stands on the platform at the front edge of the first bogie of a stationary train. The train starts moving with uniform acceleration and...
  6. A

    Does Electricity Need a Complete Circuit? Exploring Basic Physics Questions

    Hi Folks. I've been retired for a decade. Waaaaay back in time (1980) I got an engineering degree; in other words, in the mid-70s I took three freshman physics courses: Laws of Motion; Electromagnetics; Relativity/Quantum Mechanics. I doubt that I remember anything at all from these classes...
  7. C

    Calculate the following commutator [[AB,iℏ], A]

    I've seen this question in a textbook Calculate the following commutator [[AB,iℏ], A] I'm not to sure how you go about it i know [A,B] = AB-BA
  8. J

    I Is Tipler's Theory of Immortality Worth Considering Without Religious Bias?

    In 1994 Frank J. Tipler wrote a book titled: "The Physics of Immortality" which appeared to suggest that physics and religion could be united. Absent religious or anti-religious prisms, if the universe were found to be closed (I know, it's not), is Tipler's physics worthy of serious consideration?
  9. elijahmiles

    Where Can I Get Help with My Physics Homework?

    HI, I need help wtih my physics work and dont know where to ask
  10. K

    I Three questions regarding QG theories

    Hi all! Im gonna try to keep it short but as detailed as possible. First of all, sorry for my lower level english, possible misunderstandings of the physics Im talking about and misusage of the forum, Im not sure if vague threads like this is allowed at all. Please feel free to just answer...
  11. Ali sulieman

    Engineering Looking for resources to develop my skills in undergraduate Physics and Mathematics

    I want YouTube channels that systematically raise my mathematics and physics level
  12. rohit_astro2004

    What are the latest developments in pulsar research at TIFR, India?

    Heyy Guys, I am Rohit Nair, SYBSC physics maths student from st. Xavier's College, Mumbai, India. I have a strong curiosity and thirst to learn and solve maths and physics problems. Currently working under a project on pulsars in TIFR, India's research institute. Also, I am into experimental...
  13. kuruman

    Block sliding on vertical track with friction (Solved problem)

    This problem is a reformulation and solution of a problem posted earlier that did not go very far. A streamlined solution is posted here for future reference. Solution Shown below are two FBDs for the two paths. From the top FBD, ##N+mg\cos\theta=m\omega^2 R\implies N=m\omega^2...
  14. vcerna

    Hi! Hoping to broaden my horizons :)

    Hello, you can call me V! I just got into highschool and am interested in physics, but I am super bad at math and science... I've been an english and art person my whole life so it's been tough LOL. I joined in the hopes that surrounding myself with STEM related stuff will have a positive...
  15. Y

    LaTeX What do you use to write formulas here in Physics Forum?

    I was here over 10yrs ago, at the time, I use LaTex. You still using that today or there's something new? I am encouraging my grand daughter to come to this forum as she's going to college soon. I don't want to tell her to learn the wrong thing as it's been over 10yrs already. Thanks Alan
  16. A

    What is the Exciting World of Physics All About?

    Hello, I am Aiswarya Lakshmi S, from India. Currently, I am pursuing Masters in Physics. I am very much interested in exploring this subject. Looking forward for a great experience!
  17. A

    E-beam evaporation, Physical vapour deposition

    Hi all, Hope we have some electron beam evaporation specialists in the house. I'm working with an Telemark Electron Beam Source (Linear Multi-pocket and would like some help with the issues I am facing currently. I'm seeing blue light around both sides of the crucible when the e-beam is turned...
  18. C

    I'm searching for a theme for my matura project

    Hello I'd like to write my matura project on a topic of physics. But I can't really find a topic. I think I'd like to do something in the field of mechanics with reference to everyday life. The project requires an input of myself in this work, that means, i have to do something empirical and...
  19. gunjanaga

    What drives the behavior of particles in the universe?

    I am curious to understand how the universe works. I love to imagine if I were the universe or a particle why would I behave the way it does. It's a fun exercise. I am currently preparing for IIT JAM exam. I am glad to be part of this community. I am looking forward to getting to know you...
  20. jazzywatermelon

    Just a physics student trying to grasp a little more!

    So excited to learn more about physics and to further my understanding! :partytime: This seems like a nice little corner of the internet. :]
  21. ikarma

    What is Physics? Exploring the Fascinating World of Science

    Numerous curiosities that all have answers hidden in physics.
  22. Praksh

    Looking forward to interact with great minds!

    For starters, Im just an average student who just so happens to take an interest in physics. Yet this does not stop me from trying to gain more conceptual clarity on it. As a student, I feel I lack on explaining learnt concepts and discussing it. I believe this forum will help me overcome this...
  23. K

    I PADME latest Oct 2, 2023 paper, searching for X17 particle

    PADME previous papers arXiv:2305.08684 (hep-ex) [Submitted on 15 May 2023] Status and Prospects of PADME Comments: 6 pages, 12 figures, proceedings from Moriond EW 2023 Subjects: High Energy Physics - Experiment (hep-ex)...
  24. oldmember

    Is it possible to do advanced physics online?

    TL;DR Summary: Some universities offer online MSc and phd in physics,are they wirth it? I am what you would describe as wannabe physicist, i like the topic and want to study it but in my country there are no reputable universities that teach the topic in advanced lvls. So can i study it online...
  25. AndreasC

    Weird tendency of many professors

    I've noticed lots of physics professors reply before you finish talking. Not specifically talking about questions in a lecture etc, I mean more generally. Not sure how common it is in other disciplines or why, but generally they don't tend to let you finish. As a result often when someone has a...
  26. giodude

    MIT OCW 8.01 PS10.6: A Massive Pulley and a Block on an Incline

    Set up the force equations: (1) ##mgsin(\beta) - T = ma_{1}## (2) ##TR = I_{s}\alpha_{1}## Multiply (1) by ##R## and isolate ##TR##: ##R(mgsin(\beta) - T) = R(ma_{1})## ##mRgsin(\beta) - TR = mRa_{1}## ##TR = mRgsin(\beta) - mRa_{1}## Plug ##TR## into (2): ##TR = I_{s}\alpha_{1}##...
  27. DrClaude

    Nobel Prize 2023: Attosecond pulses

    https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/physics/2023/summary/
  28. K

    What resources are available for finding a mentor in physics?

    Hee, I believe I have to introduce myself here?😂 So my name is Kate (short for my real name haha). I’m still a teen and interested in physics. I’d like a mentor or something but idk where to get one 😂😂 Well, that’s all for now, Kate
  29. FlowiwGhar

    Physics problem - Salmon jumping waterfall

    m * g * h + (1/2) * m * v² = m * g * y Simplifying the equation: g * h + (1/2) * v² = g * y Substituting the values: g * 0.614 + (1/2) * v² = g * 2.73 * sin(26.7°) Now, let's solve for v: (1/2) * v² = g * 2.73 * sin(26.7°) - g * 0.614 v² = 2 * (g * 2.73 * sin(26.7°) - g * 0.614) v = √(2...
  30. Z

    How Do Optics, Astronomy, and Programming Shape a Scientist's Journey?

    I received my degree some years ago. Been very focused on optics, astronomy, programming.
  31. Hak

    Is Exponential Form Better for Balloon with Inserted Load Calculation?

    My attempt is: Archimedes' thrust on the balloon minus the weight of the air inside it is F=(\rho-\rho_{\rm in})Vg, where \rho_{in} is the density of the hot air inside. Now we have, in general, \rho=\mu {n \over V}=\mu {P \over RT} from the perfect gas law (\mu would be the molar mass of the...
  32. P

    Help with question on motion: Avoiding a rear-end collision

    The question : A car and a truck are both traveling with a constant speed of 20 m/s. The car is 10 m behind the truck. The truck driver suddenly applies his brakes, causing the truck to slow to a stop at the constant rate of 2 m/s2. Two seconds later, the driver of the car applies their brakes...
  33. Savem c10

    How can I learn about race car physics and suspension set up?

    Interested in race car physics whether it be asphalt or dirt CT and chassis set up and all things racing .
  34. B

    What is it Like to Study Physics in High School in Seattle?

    hii guys I am studen of physics in high school of Seattle.
  35. F

    How do I properly post a schoolwork problem on PF?

    Hello, I am new to this website and just don't get everything yet (like attempt to a solution). I'm in the third grade of highschool and this is my first year of having physics as a apart subject.
  36. Hak

    Foucault Pendulum at the North Pole

    Consider a pendulum swinging at the North Pole in an inertial frame of reference xyz with the x and y axes in the plane tangent to the pole and the suspension placed at elevation z = l. There is no induction \mathbf{B} and in the chosen system the plane of oscillation xz of the pendulum is...
  37. A

    Calculating Torque on this Square

    So I started by just figuring out what forces are going to have torque. I know the one heading straight down from the pivot won’t have any and the one going at an angle from the pivot won’t be included in the net torque since it’s at the pivot. The rest of the forces have torque and they are...
  38. J

    What do physics majors in university study after physics 1 and 2?

    So after Newtonian mechanics and electricity/magnetism, what do physics majors study? Also, is there a textbook you can reference me to that applies to that?
  39. TurtleKrampus

    Why are Physicists so informal with mathematics?

    I realize of course that this will probably not apply to all physicists, but at least every physicist in my university's math department is very unrigorous when it comes to mathematics. This is frustrating because some of the physics material seems genuinely interesting, but the lack of an...
  40. P

    Classical A relearning experience - self study edition

    Hi, I graduated with an undergraduate degree in physics 16 years ago, and I would like to go back and relearn all that great knowledge that I forgot. I was thinking of the following series of books. -Do you recommend changing the order in which I go through them? -Do you recommend adding a...
  41. T

    Beam Expansion: Distance between 2 lenses in a Keplerian beam expander

    Basically this is the Exercise In Fundamentals of Photonics book. We also need to use these two equation (1) and (2) As we all know, in order to make the z' as far as possible, we must place 2 lens with this distance I already figure that thank to the initial condition of the first lens...
  42. JoeDGreat

    What is the rocket's initial acceleration?

    Help me solve... I'm getting errors here..
  43. P

    Intro Physics “Fundamental University Physics” by Alonso and Finn - out of date?

    Hi, I was going through “Fundamental University Physics” by Alonso and Finn, and I’m wondering how much of it is out of date. Obviously the tone and style is from the 60s, but if I were to go through all 3 volumes in depth, how much of the info would be inaccurate/wrong based on what we know...
  44. scribkibs

    What are the best physics lingo/starter pack/staples? (websites and resources)

    Forgive me for my bad explaining. What are all the usual sites/tools/etc. that physicists and physics students use? For example--arXiv, LaTeX, the best journals to keep up with the latest physics research/discoveries, the Feynman Lectures (and Feynman himself), Griffiths Electrodynamics, CERN...
  45. scribkibs

    Other Can't take physics my first year

    As an undergraduate highly considering graduate school, what are some ways I can still remain engaged with physics and with my institution's physics department despite my delayed start (I cannot take intro physics until my second year)? I was thinking of regularly attending department colloquia...
  46. scribkibs

    What drives a young physicist's passion for learning and research?

    Hey! I'm Parker, an undergraduate physics student with hopes of going to graduate school. I'm excited to learn as much as possible and to interact with people just as passionate about physics as I am :)
  47. G

    I Doubts about isotropy of space

    I might have some other questions related to this topic, but I will ask them in further replies. Isotropy of space is explained such as it should look the same in every direction. It's not enough to imagine ourselves to be in the center of the sphere, because definition says that to call space...
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