why is physics important essay

Why Study Physics?

The goal of physics is to understand how things work from first principles.  We offer physics courses that are matched to a range of goals that students may have in studying physics -- taking elective courses to broaden one's scientific literacy, satisfying requirements for a major in the sciences or engineering, or working towards a degree in physics or engineering physics. Courses in physics reveal the mathematical beauty of the universe at scales ranging from subatomic to cosmological. Studying physics strengthens quantitative reasoning and problem solving skills that are valuable in areas beyond physics.

Where do I start?

• Students who have never studied physics before and would like a broad introduction should consider one of the introductory seminar courses in Physics or Applied Physics. Those interested in astronomy and astrophysics might enjoy PHYSICS 15, 16 or 17, which is intended for nontechnical majors.
• Students considering a career in science or engineering should start with the PHYSICS 20 & 40 series or PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 .
• The PHYSICS 20 series assumes no background in calculus, and is intended primarily for those who are majoring in the biological sciences. However, such students who have AP credit in calculus or physics should consider taking the PHYSICS 40 series, which will provide a depth and emphasis on problem solving that is of significant value in biological research, which today involves considerable physics-based technology.
• For those intending to major in engineering or the physical sciences, or simply wishing a stronger background in physics, the department offers the PHYSICS 40 series and PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 . Either of these series will satisfy the entry-level physics requirements of any Stanford major.  However, students majoring in Physics or Engineering Physics are required to take PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 -- possibly after completing PHYSICS 41 and 43. 
• PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 courses are intended for those who have already taken a physics course at the level of PHYSICS 41 and 43, or at least have a strong background in mechanics, some background in electricity and magnetism, and a strong background in calculus. To determine whether you are prepared for PHYSICS 61, take the the Physics Placement Diagnostic .
• The PHYSICS 40 series begins with PHYSICS 41 (mechanics), which is offered as a 4-unit course in both Autumn and Winter quarters, and continues with PHYSICS 43 (electricity and magnetism) in both Winter and Spring quarters, and PHYSICS 45 (thermodynamics and optics) in Autumn quarter.
• Beginning in academic year 2023/2024, a five-unit version of PHYSICS 41 is offered in the Winter quarter: PHYSICS 41E (Extended). This course is designed to enable students who have had little or no high school physics background to succeed in physics. 
• The PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 series begins in the Autumn quarter (only) with special relativity and a deeper dive into mechanics.   
• While most students are recommended to begin with mechanics in the PHYSICS 40 series (PHYSICS 41 or 41E), those who have had strong physics preparation in high school (such as a score of at least 4 on the Physics Advanced Placement C exam) may be ready to start with PHYSICS 45 in Autumn quarter (and then take PHYSICS 43 in the Winter quarter), or to start with PHYSICS 61 in the Autumn. 
• Students are individually advised on the best entry point into either the PHYSICS 40 series or PHYSICS 61, 71, 81 on the basis of their score on the Physics Placement Diagnostic , which is available online.

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• Why Physics?
• Introduction

Why Study Physics?

• Physics Careers
• Physics at Cornell

There are hundreds of possible college majors and minors. So why should you study physics?

Physics is interesting.

Physics helps us to understand how the world around us works , from can openers, light bulbs and cell phones to muscles, lungs and brains; from paints, piccolos and pirouettes to cameras, cars and cathedrals; from earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes to quarks, DNA and black holes. From the prosaic . . . to the profound . . . to the poetic. . .

Physics helps us to organize the universe. It deals with fundamentals, and helps us to see the connections between seemly disparate phenomena.

Physics gives us powerful tools to help us to express our creativity , to see the world in new ways and then to change it.

Physics is useful.

Physics provides quantitative and analytic skills needed for analyzing data and solving problems in the sciences, engineering and medicine, as well as in economics, finance, management, law and public policy.

Physics is the basis for most modern technology , and for the tools and instruments used in scientific, engineering and medical research and development. Manufacturing is dominated by physics-based technology.

Physics helps you to help others. Doctors that don’t understand physics can be dangerous. Medicine without physics technology would be barbaric. Schools without qualified physics teachers cut their students off from a host of well-respected, well paying careers.

Students who study physics do better on SAT, MCAT and GRE tests. Physics majors do better on MCATs than bio or chem majors .

Majoring in physics provides excellent preparation for graduate study not just in physics, but in all engineering and information/computer science disciplines; in the life sciences including molecular biology, genetics and neurobiology; in earth, atmospheric and ocean science; in finance and economics; and in public policy and journalism.

Physics opens the door to many career options.

More options, in fact, than almost any other college subject. Conversely, not taking physics closes the door to more career options. You can't become an engineer or a doctor without physics; you’re far less likely to get a job in teaching; your video games will be boring and your animated movies won’t look realistic; and your policy judgments on global warming will be less compelling.

College and corporate recruiters recognize the value of physics training.

Although the number of job ads specifically asking for physicists is smaller than, e.g., for engineers, the job market for those with skills in physics is more diverse and is always strong .

Because physics encourages quantitative, analytical and “big picture” thinking, physicists are more likely to end up in top management and policy positions than other technical professionals. Of the three top science-related positions in the U.S. government, two - Energy Secretary and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy - are currently held by physicists.

Physics is challenging.

This is one aspect that scares off many students. But it is precisely one of the most important reasons why you should study physics!

All of us - including professional physicists - find college physics courses challenging, because they require us to master the many concepts and skills that make training in physics so valuable in such a wide range of careers.

This also means that physics is much harder to learn after college (on your own or on the job) than other subjects like history or psychology or computer programming. You’ll get the most bang for your college buck if you take physics and other hard-to-learn subjects in your undergraduate years. You don't need to earn As or even Bs. You just need to learn enough to have a basis for future learning and professional growth.

Learn more about Physics at Cornell .

A. Physics. Definition

When learning about and discussing physics, we focus heavily on energy, the core element of the science. To better understand this connection, it helps to refer to a solid working definition of physics.

Physics. The science in which matter and energy are studied both separately and in combination with one another.

And a more detailed working definition of physics may be: The science of nature, or that which pertains to natural objects, which deals with the laws and properties of matter and the forces which act upon them. Quite often, physics concentrates upon the forces having an impact upon matter, that is, gravitation , heat , light , magnetism , electricity , and others.

B. Physics. Orientation

Because physics utilizes elements of other branches of sciences, biology and chemistry for example, it has the reputation of being more complicated than other sciences.

Physics, as opposed to natural philosophy (with which it was grouped until the 19 th century), relies upon scientific methods in order to describe the natural world.

To understand the fundamental principles of the universe, physics utilizes many workings from the other natural sciences. Because of this overlap, phenomena studied in physics (conservation of energy for example) are common to all material systems. The specific ways in which they apply to energy (hence, physics) are often referred to as the "laws of physics."

Because each of the other natural sciences biology, chemistry, geology, material science, medicine, engineering, and others, work with systems which adhere to the laws of physics, physics is often referred to as the "fundamental science."

For an example of how the laws of physics apply to all of the other sciences, consider that chemistry, the science of matter which studies atoms and molecules, complies with the theories of quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism in order to produce chemical compounds.

C. Physics and Mathematics

As a whole, physics is closely related to mathematics, for it provides the logical structure in which physical laws may be formulated and their predictions quantified. A great many of physics' definitions, models, and theories are expressed using mathematical symbols and formulas.

The central difference between physics and mathematics is that ultimately physics is concerned with descriptions of the material world whereas mathematics is focused on abstract logical patterns that may extend beyond the real world.

Because physics concentrates on the material world, it tests its theories through the process known as observation or experimentation. In theory, it may seem relatively easier to detect where physics leaves off and mathematics picks up. However, in reality, such a clean-cut distinction does not always exist. Hence, the gray areas in between physics and mathematics tend be called "mathematical physics."

Both engineering and technology also have ties to physics. For instance, electrical engineering studies the practical application of electromagnetism. That is why you will quite often find physics to be a component in the building of bridges, or in the creation of electronic equipment, nuclear weaponry, lasers, barometers, and other valuable measurement devices.

D. Physics. Range of Fields

While there are no definitive answers as to whether or not physics is more complex than other sciences, it is safe to say that physics has decidedly more branches, both traditional and modern.

Take for example the range of traditional subdivisions of physics that exist: acoustics, optics, mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism. And then there are those still considered to be modern extensions: atomic and nuclear physics, cryogenics, solid-state physics, particle physics, and plasma physics.

Below is a list, by no means comprehensive, of the dizzying variety of disciplines that exist within the science of physics:

• Acoustics. Study of sound and sound waves.
• Astronomy. Study of space.
• Astrophysics. Study of the physical properties of objects in space.
• Atomic Physics. Study of atoms, specifically the electron properties of the atom.
• Biophysics. Study of physics in living systems.
• Chaos. Study of systems with strong sensitivity to initial conditions, so that a slight change at the beginning quickly becomes major changes in the system.
• Chemical Physics. Study of physics in chemical systems.
• Computational Physics. Application of numerical methods to solve physical problems for which a quantitative theory already exists.
• Cosmology. Study of the universe as a whole, including its origins and evolution.
• Cryophysics, Cryogenics, and Low Temperature Physics. Study of physical properties in low temperature situations, far below the freezing point of water.
• Crystallography. Study of crystals and crystalline structures.
• Electromagnetism. Study of electrical and magnetic fields, which are two aspects of the same phenomenon.
• Electronics. Study of the flow of electrons, generally in a circuit.
• Fluid Dynamics and Fluid Mechanics. Study of the physical properties of "fluids," specifically defined in this case to be liquids and gases.
• Geophysics. Study of the physical properties of the Earth.
• High Energy Physics. Study of physics in extremely high energy systems, generally within particle physics.
• High Pressure Physics. Study of physics in extremely high pressure systems, generally related to fluid dynamics.
• Laser Physics. Study of the physical properties of lasers.
• Mathematical Physics. Discipline in which rigorous mathematical methods are applied to solving problems related to physics.
• Mechanics. Study of the motion of bodies in a frame of reference.
• Meteorology and Weather Physics. Physics of weather.
• Molecular Physics. Study of physical properties of molecules.
• Nanotechnology. Science of building circuits and machines from single molecules and atoms.
• Nuclear Physics. Study of the physical properties of the atomic nucleus.
• Optics and Light Physics. Study of the physical properties of light.
• Particle Physics. Study of fundamental particles and the forces of their interaction.
• Plasma Physics. Study of matter in the plasma phase.
• Quantum Electrodynamics. Study of how electrons and photons interact at the quantum mechanical level.
• Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Physics. Study of science where the smallest discrete values, or quanta, of matter and energy become relevant.
• Quantum Optics. Application of quantum physics to light.
• Quantum Field Theory. Application of quantum physics to fields, including the fundamental forces of the universe.
• Quantum Gravity. Application of quantum physics to gravity and the unification of gravity with the other fundamental particle interactions.
• Relativity. Study of systems displaying the properties of Einstein's theory of relativity, which generally involves moving at speeds very close to the speed of light.
• Statistical Mechanics. Study of large systems by statistically expanding the knowledge of smaller systems.
• String Theory and Superstring Theory. Study of the theory that all fundamental particles are vibrations of one-dimensional strings of energy, in a higher-dimensional universe.
• Thermodynamics. Physics of heat.

The reason so many subdivisions have evolved is that physics, as a whole, presents such a broad area of study. For scientists to perform meaningful research and studies, they must reduce the scope of their focus. By narrowing their field of study, they avoid becoming overwhelmed by the magnitude of knowledge and data that exists within the entire natural (physical) world.

E. Methods of Energy Production

Energy and work (energy as defined as the ability to do work) occupy an important part of our ordinary lives, and are among the most important topics in physics. Work, in terms of a physics related definition, has quite a different meaning than the type of work about which we normally think. In physics, work is performed only when an object is moved in the direction of an applied force.

Energy in physics is defined as the ability to do work. Doesn't this seem logical? For the more energy you have, the more work you can accomplish and the more activities you can engage in. In terms of a formula used, work is the force exerted multiplied by the distance moved, or W=F x d.

F. History of Physics

a. Prehistoric Era

Up until the Industrial Revolution during the late 1800s, humans had a limited call for energy. With fire for cooking, heating, and for safety purposes, along with animals for strength and transportation, humans really had the majority of their basic needs covered.

In addition to fire and animals, humans were also using wind as energy. This knowledge was acquired around 1200 BC in Polynesia, where people learned to use wind as a method for propelling their boats with the appendage known as a "sail."

Approximately 5000 years ago, the Chinese were the first to use magnetic energy. They relied upon the pull of magnetic iron objects to guide navigators and, thanks to the Earth's magnetic field, point them in the direction of north.

About 2500 years ago, the Greek philosopher Thales was credited with discovering electrical energy. By rubbing fur against a piece of amber, Thales found that dust and other particles clung to the amber with what is known as an electrostatic force.

And in 1000 BC, because it burned slower and longer than wood and provided more heat, the Chinese began to use coal as a source of fuel. Found to be a superior source of energy, this fuel was introduced to the Western World by Marco Polo in 1275, and was used for countless centuries thereafter.

b. 17 th Century

During the 1600s, the Netherlands discovered reserves of coal and began providing it to countries throughout Europe. In the 1700s England discovered its own source of coal and became both a manufacturer and distributor to neighboring countries. Within a short while, England broadened its distribution route, becoming the world's largest producer and supplier. Within this same time period, Europeans discovered solar heat had the ability to grow plants indoors during cold weather months.

c. 18 th Century

During the 1700s, due to diminished forested territories, England's primary source of fuel was coal. Further contributing to the demand for coal at this time was the invention of the steam engine. Devised to pump water out of coal mines, later models of the steam engine sported an increased number of cylinders and a more efficient method for burning the coal.

Eventually, the newly improved steam engine served as the primary impetus for the Industrial Revolution.

d. 19 th Century

During the 19 th century, the Industrial Revolution was well under way. Beginning in England and moving throughout Europe, North America, and the rest of the world, the Revolution was marked by mass production, the by-product of newly introduced machinery. With the advent of such flourishing mechanized activity came an unprecedented need for additional sources of energy.

Along with the steam engine, the first steamboat debuted in 1807 and the first steam locomotive in 1804. Again, with new technology came an increased need for productive, high-capacity engines, and more inexpensive forms of energy.

During this era, scientists were aware that energy supplies were limited and began to seek out alternative sources, for example, solar energy, hydroelectric energy, and geothermal energy. Not only were they worried about coal shortages, but they were also concerned about the residual effects (exhaust fumes, and so on) caused by coal's combustible output (fossil fuels).

During the mid-1800s, alternative energy sources were the focus of a great deal of study, research, and experimentation. Mouchout developed solar energy in 1860. Although Charles Tellier, John Ericsson, Henry E. Willsie, Eneas, et al ., all made notable improvements in the solar engine; it failed to catch on commercially because coal was widely available and significantly less expensive.

In the 19 th century, additional energy related highlights included:

• Construction of small hydroelectric power plants .
• Windmills developed to produce electric power .
• Geothermal energy used to heat up houses and, by the end of the century, capable of contributing to the production of electricity.
• Crude petroleum oil drilled out of the ground in Titusville, Pennsylvania.
• Internal combustion engines mounted in automobiles.
• Petroleum gradually began to dominate coal in the energy industry.
• French inventor Lenoir invented an internal combustion engine that used gasoline as fuel.
• German inventors Daimler and Benz invented the first automobile by mounting the engine on a carriage.
• Subsequently, Henry Ford later mass produced automobiles enabling the car to become a common means of transportation.
• The Wright brothers invented the first airplane with a gasoline engine, and, thus, ushered in an era of faster and cheaper transportation.

Modern Times

In modern times, some of the same energy sources which scientists had explored during the 19 th century, like solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal energy, are now being revisited as possible alternative options. Another contemporary power source is nuclear energy. Though widely used, many scientists are concerned about the fall out associated with the residual effects of nuclear energy, one of which includes the effect of radioactivity upon the environment.

Due to some misuses and exploitation, the world has depleted many of its long established supplies of energy sources. In the midst of these increasingly dire circumstances, scientists continue to seek out alternative forms of energy. Their primary requirements are to find energy sources that are not harmful to the environment, are accessible, inexpensive, and available in mass quantities.

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How Physics Works

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• M.S., Mathematics Education, Indiana University
• B.A., Physics, Wabash College

Physics is the scientific study of matter and energy and how they interact with each other. This energy can take the form of motion, light, electricity, radiation, gravity — just about anything, honestly. Physics deals with matter on scales ranging from sub-atomic particles (i.e. the particles that make up the atom and the particles that make up those particles) to stars and even entire galaxies.

As an experimental science, physics utilizes the scientific method to formulate and test hypotheses that are based on observation of the natural world. The goal of physics is to use the results of these experiments to formulate scientific laws , usually expressed in the language of mathematics, which can then be used to predict other phenomena.

When you talk about theoretical physics , you are speaking of the area of physics that is focused on developing these laws and using them to extrapolate into new predictions. These predictions from theoretical physicists then create new questions that experimental physicists then develop experiments to test. In this way, the theoretical and experimental components of physics (and science in general) interact with each other and push each other forward to develop new areas of knowledge.

The Role of Physics in Other Fields of Science

In a broader sense, physics can be seen as the most fundamental of the natural sciences. Chemistry, for example, can be viewed as a complex application of physics, as it focuses on the interaction of energy and matter in chemical systems. We also know that biology is, at its heart, an application of chemical properties in living things, which means that it is also, ultimately, ruled by the physical laws.

Of course, we don't think of these other fields as part of physics. When we investigate something scientifically, we look for patterns at the scale that is most appropriate. Though every living thing is acting in a way that is fundamentally driven by the particles of which it is composed, trying to explain an entire ecosystem in terms of the behavior of fundamental particles would be diving into an unhelpful level of detail. Even when looking at the behavior of a liquid, we look in general at the properties of the fluid as a whole through fluid dynamics , rather than paying particular attention to the behavior of the individual particles. 

Major Concepts in Physics

Because physics covers so much area, it is divided into several specific fields of study, such as electronics, quantum physics , astronomy, and biophysics .

Why Is Physics (Or Any Science) Important?

Physics includes the study of astronomy, and in many ways, astronomy was humanity's first organized field of science. Ancient peoples looked to the stars and recognized patterns there, then began using mathematical precision to make predictions about what would happen in the heavens based on those patterns. Whatever flaws there were in these specific predictions, the method of trying to understand the unknown was a worthy one.

Trying to understand the unknown is still a central problem in human life. Despite all of our advancements in science and technology, being a human being means that you are able to understand some things and also that there are things you do not understand. Science teaches you a methodology for approaching the unknown and asking questions that get to the heart of what is unknown and how to make it known.

Physics, in particular, focuses on some of the most fundamental of questions about our physical universe. Pretty much the only more fundamental questions that could be asked fall in the philosophical realm of "metaphysics" (named for being literally "beyond physics'), but the problem is that these questions are so fundamental that many of the questions in the metaphysical realm remain unresolved even after centuries or millennia of inquiry by most of history's greatest minds. Physics, on the other hand, has resolved many fundamental issues, even though those resolutions tend to open up whole new types of questions.

For more on this subject, check out " Why Study Physics?" (adapted, with permission, from the book Why Science? by James Trefil ).

• The Different Fields of Physics
• Five Great Problems in Theoretical Physics
• The Discovery of the Higgs Energy Field
• Understanding Cosmology and Its Impact
• Why Should You Study Physics?
• Quantum Physics Overview
• Particle Physics Fundamentals
• What Is a Boson?
• What Is Quantum Optics?
• Fundamental Physical Constants
• Could Matter-Antimatter Reactors Work?
• Leonard Susskind Bio
• What Chemistry Is and What Chemists Do
• 10 Things You Need To Know About Chemistry
• Engineer vs. Scientist: What's the Difference?
• Radiation in Space Gives Clues about the Universe

Why study Physics?

What is physics.

One of the oldest academic disciplines, physics is a natural science whose goal is to understand how everything works at its most fundamental level. Physicists study nature on scales as small as an atomic nucleus to as large as the observable universe. Physics is the cornerstone of the other natural sciences (chemistry, geology, biology, astronomy) and is essential to understanding our modern technological society. At the heart of physics is a combination of experiment, observation and the analysis of phenomena using mathematical and computational tools.

Examples of what physicists study include:

• The nature of fundamental particles (protons, quarks, electrons, neutrinos,…).
• The behavior of dark matter, dark energy, galaxies and black holes.
• The properties of matter in standard and exotic phases (solids, liquids, plasmas, superconductors, superfluids…).
• The behavior of complex systems (the stock market, cellular locomotion, infectious disease transmission, the motion of galaxy clusters or distant planetary systems).

Physicists attempt to understand the fundamental mathematical relationships that govern natural phenomena and apply those relationships to interesting problems. The main reason to study physics is because you are curious about how the world works. In addition to that knowledge, you gain a set of incredibly useful skills that make you attractive to a wide range of employers.

A physics degree trains you to become an expert problem solver. You will learn to break down a problem into its component parts and apply advanced mathematics, computing, data analysis and experimental techniques to arrive at a solution. We also emphasize technical writing and presentation skills, as well as working in teams.

Physics majors are well-prepared for further graduate study in physics or astronomy, or employment in a wide-range of sectors including:

• Engineering and manufacturing
• Computer programming/software design
• Finance and management consulting
• Defense and aerospace industry
• High school science teaching
• Journalism or science writing
• Law and government
• Physics & Astronomy research

Employers understand the strong analytical skill set that physics majors bring; physicists get good job offers with salaries comparable to engineering and computer science majors. Among all disciplines, physics students have among the very highest average scores on the MCAT and LSAT examinations , indicating that a physics degree also provides excellent preparation for law and medical school.

• Click here for more information on why you should study physics.
• What can you do with a Physics degree?
• Learn about our department degree programs.
• Visit the Physics Careers Fact Sheet and  Career Toolbox to learn about job options for physicists. Also check out the APS Professional Development Guidebook .
• Learn about preparing for a career in physics and the economics of a physics degree .
• Physicists come in all colors, shapes, sizes, genders, ethnicities, and religious or political affiliations. Read about profiles of all kinds of physicists . Physics is for everyone!

Becoming a Physics Teacher

There is an extreme shortage in New Jersey of high school teachers with physics training. Physics majors become well-qualified to teach not only physics but also geoscience, chemistry and all levels of mathematics. Our graduates regularly get attractive offers from excellent high schools in the region. Learn more about becoming a physics teacher at the links below:

• Becoming a physics teacher .
• Why teach physics?
• More information for prospective teachers.
• More about the shortage of physics teachers.
• Noyce Science Teacher Scholarship Program at Montclair State .
• Learn about our teaching certificate and degree programs .

Why study physics at Montclair State?

Physics is a difficult subject, and pursuing a physics degree will require more than just a passing interest in physics or astronomy. You will be expected to work hard and dig deeply into the subject. If you are up for the challenge, we hope you’ll consider joining our department. Some of the advantages of studying with us include:

• Our faculty size and number of majors allows for small classes and individual attention. Here, your professors will know you.
• There are multiple opportunities for research with faculty, including as part of a group focused on the LIGO gravitational-wave detector , which helped discover the first black hole collisions and led to the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics .
• Our active Physics Club connects you with other physics majors, weekly activities, and free food!
• Our recently revised curriculum provides excellent preparation for STEM careers or graduate study.
• Recently renovated lab spaces have state-of-the-art new equipment: learn about atomic/nuclear physics, optics, and more!
• Two seminar courses prepare you for the physics major and set you on the path for post-graduation success.
• Our students have a strong track record of acceptance to graduate schools, landing top high school teaching positions, and corporate employment. Multiple degree paths provide a range of options suited to your talents and interests.
• Our department wants you to succeed and provides a community to help you do so! Join us!

To learn more, contact our department chairperson, Prof. Marc Favata .

See also our department flyer for additional information.

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Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Take Physics Poster

The “Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Take Physics” poster is an informative and eye-catching poster explaining how students will benefit from taking physics. “Why Physics” uses humor to draw in the viewer while slipping in plenty of serious reasons to take a physics class.

The “Why Physics” poster hangs on hundreds of walls in high school hallways and classrooms, and in numerous university physics departments.

About Those Top Ten Reasons

Here is a deeper look into those top 10 reasons why you should take physics.

2. Physics Makes Things Possible Without physics there would be no:

• Grocery laser scanners
• Space rockets
• Light bulbs
• Digital cameras
• Cell phones
• Solar panels
• Fiber optics
• DVD players
• MP3 players
• Flatscreen TVs

1. Physics Will Help You Get into College, Get a Job, and Find Love Physics makes you more attractive to university recruiters, future employers, and that cutie you have your eye on. (You'll just have to trust us on that last one).

Poster Development and Credits

The "Why Take Physics?" poster was developed by a team of staff members from APS and AAPT.

Development Team APS: Gabriel Popkin, Crystal Bailey, Monica Plisch, Theodore Hodapp, Krystal Ferguson (Design) AAPS: Melissa Lapps, Marilyn Gardner, Warren Hein Spanish Translation: Wilson J. Gonzalez-Espada, Morehead State University

Why Physics Poster

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The Importance of Studying Physics

Type of Math Used in Electrical Engineering

Teachers must stress the importance of studying physics because students may not fully appreciate the advantages of physics in everyday life. Physics is one of the fields of knowledge that underlies the physical universe and applies constantly to people's everyday lives. The advantages of physics in everyday life can be as basic as the conversion of electrical energy to heat to make the morning coffee or as complex as plotting a space shuttle flight from Earth into orbit. Even though some concepts are initially difficult to grasp, the reward in terms of satisfaction and knowledge can make all the effort worth it given the incalculable importance of physics in science.

Making Technological Advances

The importance of studying physics can clearly be see in the development of cutting edge technologies. Advances in technology are often based on discoveries in physics and inventions based on a new interpretation of existing physics knowledge, thus demonstrating the importance of physics in science. For example, Wilhelm Rontgen discovered X-rays more than a century ago, and X-ray machines are now a piece of medical equipment taken completely for granted, designed and perfected by physicists and engineers working off the initial research. In the first half of the 20th century, Enrico Fermi studied existing knowledge on nuclear fission and experimented until he achieved the first nuclear chain reaction. Now the advantages of physics in everyday life are seen in the operation of nuclear energy plants that produce electricity to power homes and businesses worldwide.

Understanding the World

Not all of the benefits of physics involve material things because research and knowledge are themselves important. Astrophysics, quantum mechanics and investigations into atomic structure and energy have been able to explain much of the way the world works, even down to the original birth of the universe. Of course, the research results can also be used as the basis of new technology, as previously mentioned. At an individual level, studying physics can be personally rewarding as students begin to understand everyday objects and occurrences in terms of the concepts of physics that underlie them, such as acceleration of a car, gravity causing an apple to fall from the tree or electricity powering appliances.

Integrating with Other Disciplines

Physics is not a standalone field. The importance of physics in science extend to a wide variety of fields. For example, medical students need to know some basic physics to understand how blood and air flows in the body, taking into account concepts such as pressure, velocity of flow and changes in resistance to flow. Physics is also integral to engineering and is generally relevant for all the sciences.

Enjoying the Intellectual Challenge

Many people are afraid to study physics because it has a reputation as a difficult subject. Others don't understand the importance of studying physics or the advantages of physics in everyday life. Specific aspects of physics that many people find daunting include the need to understand different mathematical equations and graphs and then be able to translate those concepts into real life. While there may be easier subjects out there, one of the values of studying physics is that it is intrinsically challenging and therefore also extremely rewarding when a student understands it. The best place to learn physics is through formal education, as the concepts are much harder to grasp in self-directed learning.

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• Cornell University: Why Study Physics?
• Kent State University: Famous Physicists
• Nobelprize.org: Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen - Biographical
• International Journal of Environmental and Science Education: What Makes Physics Difficult?
• University of Wisconsin LaCrosse: Why Study Physics
• Bowling Green University: Physics and Astronomy
• TRIUMF: The Importance of Physics to Society

Jillian O'Keeffe has been a freelance writer since 2009. Her work appears in regional Irish newspapers including "The Connacht Tribune" and the "Sentinel." O'Keeffe has a Master of Arts in journalism from the National University of Ireland, Galway and a Bachelor of Science in microbiology from University College Cork.

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Why Study Physics

Recognizing the importance of physics in contemporary life and the need to keep abreast of rapid technological advances, the department strives to give students not only an understanding of basic concepts, but also insights into recent developments. A rigorous major provides students with the preparation required for graduate study in physics. It also provides flexibility, serving as a stepping stone to advanced work in related areas such as Astronomy, Engineering, Materials Science, Atmospheric Science and Meteorology, Oceanography, Biophysics, Environmental Science, and the Medical and Health-related fields. The department serves the liberal arts by offering courses for non-science students that enable them to attain a general understanding of a particular area of science. These courses provide the basis for further study and enable students to follow new developments in science with heightened awareness and comprehension.

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Why Studying Physics is Important for Engineers

Many aspiring engineering students are intimidated by both physics and calculus; and for good reason, they are difficult subjects. As a mentor, high school students often ask me if he or she should take physics in high school. My answer is a resounding,”Yes!”

An engineer needs to study physics because ALL engineering is simply applied physics.  Physics is the study of energy and matter in our natural world.  An engineer must understand how to use the laws of physics to diagnose, solve problems, create and innovate.

I recommend that high school students on an engineering career path take physics before college for three reasons. First, engineering is a tough major and taking physics is good preparation for the road ahead.

Second, taking physics is a good indicator if you want to be an engineer. After a year of high school physics, you will know if engineering is the right career for you. If not, you haven’t wasted much time and money and can still choose a new college major or career path.

Third, a high school physics class will be a good indicator of what type of engineer you will want to be. Physics is such a broad topic and you will be exposed to many of the engineering disciplines in a high school. Surely, one or two will stand out.

For me, I really enjoyed studying particle motion (kinematics and kinetics) and structural design. Taking physics in high school led me to want to study Mechanical Engineering. Although, part of me wished that I had shifted to control systems engineering.

ALL Engineering is Applied Physics

Looking over my college course requirements, I noticed that each class was simply taking a subject out of my high school physics class and expounding on and making application of it.

For example, we learned how the basic concept of Hooke’s Law (how springs behave) can be used with the mechanical properties of a material for the purpose of structural analysis using linear algebra. The Finite Element Analyis (FEA) process breaks large and complex structures down to millions of very small springs.

It was engineers (an mathematicians) that combined all of these concepts to make an easily usable tool for engineers to analyze structures for strength, thermal conductivity and buckling.

Applying Physics Based on Engineering Discipline

Mechanical engineering, solids / structures.

In mechanical engineering, things like forces and vectors were the basic building blocks for determining statics and dynamics.  If the forces and vectors canceled each other out, we were working with statics.  If they didn’t it is a dynamic situation.

By applying physics, we can determine how strong a building or bridge needs to be for the load intended. For those that design machines, we need to break our designs down into smaller and smaller subsystems to ensure structural integrity.

Physics is also important when dealing with energy and momentum.  We all want to know how much energy a system that is using and the basic physics principles give us the know how to do it. This has practical application in the automotive industry as there is always a push to get better fuel consumption.

As dynamic systems need to speed up and slow down, we need to address inertia. When you are driving your car and need to stop at a traffic light, you will notice that the car seems to lunge forward when you first press the brake.

This feeling will continue until after your wheels have come to a complete stop. The car will then rock back once all the inertia has been removed from the system.

The system mentioned above is based on physics, and you will be able to calculate them using information gained in your engineering dynamics class.

For me, I am really into roller coasters! Having been on more than 120, I have ridden some rough ones like Wildcat at Hershey Park and some glossy smooth ones like Fury 325 at Carowinds. Why is there such a difference?

Engineering will tell you that there are multiple things that come into play: track layout, forces applied to the structures, the materials used, the weather conditions and maintenance.

Lately, I have been studying how to design smooth transitions in roller coasters for those who want to build their own backyard roller coaster.

Building Your Own Backyard Roller Coaster

Fluid Mechanics

In fluid mechanics, physics covers the basics of how fluid flows in pipes and over surfaces. These ideas are further developed into topics such the Bernoulli Principle, Navier-Stokes Equations and fluid compressibility. Using these together, we can figure out what is necessary to accomplish space flight.

We also apply these basic physics to measure the wind speed (as opposed to ground speed) of an airplane or how much friction it takes to push a boat through the water.

Hydraulics is the direct application of the physical relation between force, pressure and area. Using this relationship, we are able to lift and move heavy objects with very little human effort.

Thermodynamics

In the last branch of mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, we study how heat will flow through walls, air, water and space. We can understand why it can be cold outside (say 46°F, 7°C) and feel warm because of the radiant heat from the sun.

Further development of thermodynamics, leads us to electrical power generation through steam cycles.

If we find the best ways to transfer heat in heat exchangers, we can develop HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems that run at high efficiencies (well over 100%). This allows your home to be nice and warm without breaking the bank.

Electrical Engineering

An electrical engineering co-worker of mine always spouts off that, “there is no such thing as an electrical problem.” Most people think that he is wrong, but he is not; electrons can only behave strictly according to the laws of physics. Many common “electrical problems” like loose or shorted wires require mechanical solutions, like securing a connection or removing a short, to resolve the issue.

Basic physics will also cover electricity and magnetism are inextricably linked together. Every wire in an electric circuit creates a magnetic field. As an electrical engineer, you will need to know that and provide shielding to components that may react negatively to magnets.

One benefit of the generated magnetic field is it gives us the ability to measure the current in a wire with out disconnecting it. We can clip the red part around one (an only 1) wire to measure the current. Since we aren’t physically putting the current through the meter, we can potentially measure very high currents safely.

My first internship was a company that did electrical, magnetic and radio frequency shielding for PC boards. My basic understanding of physics helped me to understand the goals of the engineers when they designed new products.

Another benefit of magnetism and electricity being tied together is that we can change rotary motion into electricity and vice versa. In a DC (direct current motor), there are electromagnets, minimum of 6, attached to a rotor (spinning part). The rotor is placed in a stator which has permanent magnets mounted on opposite sides.

On the rotor there are contact pads. These contact pads are connected to two electromagnets having opposite polarity. Brushes are used to transfer the electricity to the rotor on the contact pad, which energizes the electromagnets. As a result the magnets will want to attract and turn the shaft.

As the shaft spins, one set of brush contacts will drop off as another is being turned on. This ensures that a DC motor will always be able to give full torque.

Computer Engineering

Computer engineering will center around physics in the realms of data storage and processing.

More and more components are becoming solid state, a technology that replaces older mechanical actions (like relays) with semiconductors. These solid state components can switch on and off much faster and last far longer than their mechanical equivalents.

This technology is used to increase computer processor speed while minimizing size and heat generation. Solid state devices are important in the transmission of data through wires, fiber optic cables and even through space.

Computer engineers also need to understand how magnetics from current flow and outside radio frequencies will effect the components they design. I had an internship at a company that provided RFI / EMI shielding components. There is quite a lot of design that goes into producing shields for circuit boards.

Physics is instrumental in the study of optics. Back in the 1980s and 1990s, there was tons of research and development that went into optic and lasers (amplified light) for the purpose of data storage. CDs, DVDs and BluRay were the glorious product that resulted. Before this, magnetic tape and vinyl records were the best methods of storing data.

Writable CDs and DVDs were the standard for transmitting data from one computer to another until the early 2000s. This quickly ended with the advent of the USB thumb drive. I remember my first 15Mb (yeah, MEGA bytes). Now you can get them up to 1 TB!

Who knows what the future will hold in this arena, but we know that it will all be based on the latest discoveries in physics.

Mechatronics / Robotics

This combination of mechanical, electrical and computer science will be a very challenging field to be in. As demands for automation increase, engineers will need to maximize flow. As high speed automation increases, there will be limits to how fast and accurate machinery can move because of its inertia.

Also, as the need for robotics keeps increasing, we will need a wide variety of robots. We need them to be more compact to do very small jobs. We need them to lift more so that objects can be moved without the use of overhead cranes. Finally, we need the to be more precise.

All of these needs in robotics will heavily rely on physics to accomplish these goals.

Civil and Structural Engineering

Physics plays a critical role in both civil and structural engineering. First off, any road, bridge and building is built on the ground. I have a portion of the walkway to my house that is uneven because it has shifted over time. Civil engineers study soil and how to build on it extensively so that we don’t have another leaning tower of Dallas (I mean Pisa).

Knowing how soil compaction, weather patterns, and freeze depths affect a footing allows the engineer to select the right type of foundation for any job. This is critical so that roads don’t shift, buildings don’t lean and bridges don’t collapse. All these are purely based on physics.

Aside from soil considerations, structural and civil engineers also need to know about the materials used in design. For roads, the properties of asphalt and concrete have different properties (long term) based on the conditions when it is laid down. Things like temperature, humidity and the water absorption can drastically affect the properties and time to cure.

In buildings and bridges, we need physics to tell us the limits of stress, strain and buckling to make the lightest and strongest structures. Since the structures are constantly being loaded and unloaded, we need to understand the effects of cyclical loading (called fatigue) will affect the design.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineers will apply physics to airplanes and spacecraft largely through computational fluid dynamics (CFD). CDF Software packages are based on the Navier-Stokes equations that demonstrates how any fluid will flow around or over objects.

Aside from that, spacecrafts are subjected to large temperatures differentials. Materials in the sun can reach temperatures of 248°F (120°C) and in the shade -148°F (-100°C). Not only do you need good insulation for personnel, but the ship has electronics that cannot withstand those temperatures.

Most notable, is that materials will expand or shrink based on temperature. This is usually not a problem on earth, but with a 400°F temperature swing, this can create havoc in space. Aerospace engineers need to be researching new materials that have low coefficients of thermal expansion (like carbon fiber materials) to solve this problem.

Calculus or Non-Calculus Based Physics

To calculus or not to calculus; that is the question. If you are interested in physics, but don’t want to become an engineer or scientist, take non-calculus based physics. You will receive an understanding of the physical world without being bogged down with the math.

However, calculus is the language of our natural world. If you intend to become a mechanical engineer, you will be required to take calculus based physics. To be successful as an engineer, you will need to fluently speak Nature’s language.

It’s not as bad as it seems. With the advent of the internet and YouTube, you can get a lot of free help with your studies and hear lectures from multiple instructors. I didn’t have these things when I went to school and needed help from tutors as well. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

Physics is the building block of every discipline of engineering. Without physics, we couldn’t have any of the modern conveniences we enjoy!

Corey Rasmussen

Corey Rasmussen is an award-winning professional engineer (NC and TX) with over 20 years of product design and development experience. He has two patents related to aerial lifts machinery, has advanced certifications in hydraulics and electronic controls, and specializes in designing mobile equipment. Corey is the principal engineer of Rasmussen Designs and is based out of Durham, NC.

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The Importance of Physics in Our Daily Lives

Physics is the science that helps us understand various natural phenomena that are embedded in our reality. We use physics in our daily life activities such as walking, cutting, watching, cooking, and opening and closing things.

Physics is one of the most elementary sciences that contributes directly to the development of science and the development of new technologies. Let's have a look at the importance of physics in our daily lives.

What is the Importance of Physics in Our Daily Life?

Physics is one of the most important parts of our lives. Whatever we do, there is physics. We apply the principles of physics in our everyday life activities. In this article, we will discuss how important is physics in our daily life.

Why Do We Study Physics?

Physics helps us to understand the world around us, find quantitative physical laws for everything, bring a broad perspective to any problem and satisfy our curiosity.

Physics is one of the oldest and most complex sciences because it is related to the rest of the other sciences. Physics studies everything that takes place in the universe, including particles, natural phenomena and energy, and their relationship to each other. Physics is characterized by precision, which motivates scientists always to invent new tools and methods that take care of the accuracy and results of physical experiments.

There are many branches of physics , the most important of which are classical physics, modern physics, nuclear physics, atomic physics, molecular physics, biophysics, mechanical physics (mechanics), geophysics, astrophysics, acoustics, and each of these branches includes its own physical definitions and laws.

Some basic scientific theories in different areas of physics may include:

• The theory of classical mechanics.
• Electromagnetic theory.
• Quantum theory.
• Laws of Thermodynamics.
• Theory of Relativity.
• Theory of gravity.
• Kinetic theory of matter.
• Statistical mechanics theory.

The importance of physics in our lives is highlighted by the many applications that physics has made possible in people's lives, and which have become one of the indispensable necessities of life .

The Importance of Physics in Our Everyday Life

The importance of physics in our lives is highlighted by the many applications that physics has made possible in people's lives, and which have become one of the indispensable necessities of life.

It can be said that the reason for the great progress that human civilization has witnessed in recent centuries is due in one way or another to the science of physics, especially finding the laws of motion and after discovering the principles upon which many devices are built, such as means of communication.

Physics intersects with mathematics , and the two are considered twins in the sciences. Most natural phenomena and their various behaviors must be converted into important mathematical equations and formulas that serve human needs and predict these phenomena. Thus, it is concluded that mathematics and physics can never be separated.

Physics is divided into a huge number of branches, each of which specializes in a specific field. Perhaps the most prominent branches of physics are; Atomic and nuclear physics, acoustics, optics, astrophysics, geophysics, thermodynamics, and many other branches.

A large number of scientists have contributed to this enormous field of knowledge throughout humanity, which has brought physics to such a high level that it is at the present time.

Physics is of great importance in life and this is what we will learn about in the following points:

Science and technology play an important role in our daily life. Physics plays a decisive role in modern culture and is part of human history. Its development has contributed to the progress of many other human activities, from medicine to space travel, from economics to telecommunications, etc.

Physics deals with the things like matter, force, energy and motion. All these are related to our daily tasks. Physics defines how everything around us works. We cannot separate ourselves from the wonders of physics.

Physics influences our conception of the world and of man; It is the basis of all the devices we use; allows us to evaluate the possibilities and limitations of our activities.

Physics helps us analyze, evaluate, and distinguish solutions to different problems. Physics isn't just in labs, it's everywhere we look.

Physics allows us to better understand natural phenomena and relate them to our daily activities. In this way, we can explain how and why things happen in addition to experimenting and confirming the results. Where is the Earth's Center of Gravity Located?

We can walk easily only because of physics. When we put our foot on the ground, we apply a force to it. In doing this, the ground also applies an equal force to our foot, but in the opposite direction, and propels us forward. This is what we call Newton's third law.

When we want to open and close hinged doors, we use physics. The phenomenon involved in opening and closing doors is called "torque". Torque is the measure of the force required to rotate an object about an axis or fulcrum. The torque is positive when you open the door clockwise and negative if you open it anticlockwise.

We use a steam iron to give our clothes a professionally pressed look and feel from the comfort of our home. A steam iron uses a lot of physics principles to make it work like "Heat" (a form of energy that is transferred from one body to another as a result of a temperature difference).

We use physics in our kitchens to cook delicious foods. In the cooking process, we use a branch of physics called "thermodynamics". Thermodynamics deals with heat and temperature that are necessary for cooking foods.

When we cut fruits and vegetables, we use many principles of physics. In order to cut anything, we have to apply pressure to the knife. The pressure is directly dependent on the force and inversely dependent on the area. Therefore, when we increase the pressure on the knife, we can cut any object easily.

We use car seat belts to prevent us from sliding inside the car in the event of a collision. Our car seat belt works on the concept of physics called "inertia". In an accident, a fast-running car suddenly stops. So, the momentum of the car drops to zero in a very short time. The seat belt helps prevent the body from moving in the forward direction. As our body resists stopping due to inertia.

Sound is something we cannot see but hear or experience. Physics here works on the concept of quantum mechanics and studies the origin, propagation and properties of sound. Sound is vital for interacting with others, sharing information, creating art, and countless other aspects of life.

We use headphones/earphones to listen to music and sound. Our headphones/earphones work on the concept of physics called magnetism and sound waves. Headphones/earphones consist of two transducers that receive electrical impulses from an audio receiver, converting the impulses into radio waves. And then they convert radio waves into sound energy that our ears perceive.

We entertain ourselves by clicking our photos. The Lens used in our cameras works on the principle of physics called Optics, which studies the behavior and properties of light. The camera's digital sensor prepares to organize data coming from the light and the camera uses a set of convex lenses to take real inverted images on the film.

Topics That Interest in Physics

Physics is the science that is concerned with the study of nature, which consists of matter and energy, and accordingly, we can say that physics is concerned with defining the basic quantities in the universe (such as velocity, acceleration, charge, momentum, ...).

Physics also attempts to find relationships between these quantities in addition to the laws that describe them (such as Newton's laws, Coulomb's law, the laws of quantum mechanics, Bernoulli's principle, Theory of relativity, statistical mechanics, ...); This connection between quantities is usually done using mathematics, graphs, statistics, and other methods.

Physics raises many big questions, some of which have been answered, but most of them are still pending such ​as:

• How did the universe begin?
• What is the fate of the universe in the end?
• How did life evolve from nonliving matter?
• Why does time seem to flow only in one direction?
• What is a matter made of?
• Where do ultrahigh-energy particles come from?
• How big is space ?
• Why is the night sky dark?
• How does lightning happen?
• What are the forces controlling nature in the universe?
• Is there a theory that can describe everything?
• Can we find a unified theory of physics?

These and other questions are the domain of physics. If we can answer them,  this may lead us to great benefits.

For example, while previously humans were trying to answer some specific physics questions (such as Maxwell, Faraday,...) these and other scientists came up with what may be the greatest thing in our lives today; Which is electricity, generating it, and benefiting from it, and they reached it specifically when they were trying to answer a set of questions related to the study of light, electric and magnetic fields, and in more scientific words; Electromagnetic theory.

How to Learn Physics Easily

One of us may want to learn physics for several reasons; Such as a job, fame, money, desire for knowledge, love of science, or any other reason, and since the article aims to introduce the importance of physics, it is necessary to mention the way to learn physics.

Learning physics may seem complicated, but it is actually much simpler than we imagine since physics is in essence a search for answers that have plagued the human mind throughout the ages.

Physics aims first and foremost to understand the universe and its strange phenomena. The human mind picks up by observation the initial questions that his thinking later refines into mature questions that lead the world in its search for truth, ending with the amazing discovery of the answer to the question or perhaps other answers, or perhaps other new questions in most cases.

To learn physics, you must first realize that it takes a lot of effort to be able to understand physics, in addition to your need to learn many different things in the fields of natural sciences, computers, engineering, and others, so that you can understand physical theories and learn about their existing applications.

In order to fully understand physics, it is necessary to attend a university program in the field of physics. You will be able to get many opportunities there, and you will learn what you cannot learn from books or the Internet, such as scientific research methods in physics, and ways of thinking about physical problems, and you will get to know people who specialize in physics; Which will give you the opportunity to talk with them (whether they are professors or other students).

If a person wants more specialization and depth in studying physics, he must enroll in a university program specialized in physics, and this is the best way. It comes to mind, besides being able to participate in research teams.

It is important to mention the importance of the university in this way, as no matter how useful the means by which a person learns physics, it will not replace the university. But if it is difficult to enroll in a university program, perhaps some tips will be useful, and where the person has to do self-learning.

It is preferable to start studying mathematics, as it is the universal language. We use math concepts in almost every aspect of life . Using math formulas, physics provides solutions and various explanations for the phenomena of the universe.

It is a good idea to start by learning some basic math topics; Such as calculus, linear algebra, solving differential equations, learning about complex numbers, statistics and probability, and some special functions, then classical mechanics, optics, thermodynamics, solar system , electromagnetic theory, special theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and solid-state physics, Some advanced mathematics, nuclear physics, general relativity, astrophysics, cosmology, time, and high-energy physics. After that, the learner will be able to set out to explore and specialize in the field he wants.

Conclusion:

Physics plays a prominent role in the progress of human civilization and physics has many uses and applications in daily practical life.

The applications of physics do not involve only one field but are diverse to include energy, medicine, transportation, aviation, space, communications, and satellites, in addition to modern technology.

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Metaphysics: What Is It? Why Is It Important Today?

This article defines the philosophical branch of metaphysics, outlining its key focuses and discussing why it’s important today.

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W hat is the fundamental nature of reality? What is time? What is space? Is there a God? Is the world around us ‘real’? What is change? Do numbers exist? What is causation, and can there be such a thing as a ‘first cause’? Why is reality like it is? What does it mean for something to exist? Why does anything exist?

These are just a few of the questions posed by the oft-derided, mind-melting realm of metaphysics, perhaps the most obscure of philosophy’s four core branches .

As 18th-century German philosopher Immanuel Kant puts it:

Metaphysics is a dark ocean without shores or lighthouse, strewn with many a philosophic wreck.

What is metaphysics in simple words?

S o what is metaphysics, exactly? Like most metaphysical questions, that’s not an easy one to answer. We might think based on the word itself that it refers to some ‘meta’ version of physics, but that’s not quite accurate.

‘Metaphysics’ was actually coined by Andronicus of Rhodes, a bibliographer of Aristotle’s books in the first century BCE.

Andronicus was looking to categorize the works that came after Aristotle’s writings on ‘Physics’, and thus simply grouped them with the title ‘After Physics’ — or, ‘Metaphysics’.

Putting its rather arbitrary etymological origins to one side, we can say the word ‘metaphysics’ refers to the philosophical study of reality: metaphysics essentially attempts to establish a coherent picture of what reality ultimately is and how reality ultimately works .

In doing so, it explores basic issues around substance, existence, causality, determinism, modality, ontology, possibility, and nothingness — most of which are discussed by Aristotle in those initial writings grouped by Andronicus, but also by philosophers throughout history.

Giorgio de Chirico - The Enigma of an Autumn Afternoon, 1910, the first and defining work of the Pittura Metafisica (metaphysical painting) artistic movement.

To borrow American philosopher Wilfrid Sellars’s famous definition of philosophy, the aim of metaphysics is essentially...

to understand how things in the broadest possible sense of the term hang together in the broadest possible sense of the term.

What is the difference between metaphysics and physics?

O f course, there is overlap with the sciences here — notably physics — and we might think that actually physicists, backed by scientific data and experiment, are much better placed to ponder questions on the fundamental nature of reality than metaphysicians, who depend on armchair reasoning and deductive logic to construct their theories.

But, when it comes to reality, some philosophers argue there are questions that go beyond the scope of physics (after all, physics investigates what we are able to investigate, and philosophers have long suspected that what we are able to investigate may not be all there is).

Beyond or right on the edge of physics’ scope is thus where metaphysicians generally reside, restless in their creaking upholstery.

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A quick, dirty, and by no means foolproof way to distinguish metaphysics from the sciences is as follows: the sciences concern the specific ‘how’ of reality, metaphysics concerns the general ‘what’ and ‘why’.

For example, physicists may investigate the charge of a particle; a metaphysician asks what is charge, and what is a particle?

A physicist may investigate how particles causally interact; a metaphysician attempts to characterize causation itself.

A physicist may investigate the origins of the universe and theorize about its fundamental laws; a metaphysician asks why the universe exists — and why its laws obtain the way they do.

A physicist uses mathematics to express theory; a metaphysician asks what numbers are (i.e. whether numbers actually exist, or if they’re just useful fictions).

Indeed, ontology — the study of being or what it means for something to exist — has been a key battleground for metaphysicians throughout the ages.

Why is there something rather than nothing?

Scientists or mathematicians may very well ask these questions too; but when they do so, it should be recognized that they are making metaphysical inquiries, and metaphysical positions should not be taken for granted.

For instance, the principle of physicalism — that everything that exists in the universe is either physical or reducible down to physical ‘stuff’ — might seem commonsensical; but it is actually a metaphysical position — one that philosophers have long disputed, from George Berkeley denying the existence of matter (and claiming everything is made of ‘mental stuff’ instead) to philosophers of consciousness today challenging physicalist conceptions of the mind.

The point here is not so much about whether physicalism is correct: it’s recognizing that there is a debate to be had in the first place, and in surfacing and examining any and all presuppositions upon which our theories about the world may rest.

Metaphysics is a rabbit hole about which many disagree. Beyond the general lines of inquiry referenced above, debates abound over what metaphysics even is or should be — especially in its relation to modern science.

What questions does metaphysics investigate?

W hile the lines between metaphysics and the sciences may seem a little blurred, as a quick summary we can say that, at root, many problems in science and philosophy — including whether we have free will , whether consciousness is physical , and what causation is — are metaphysical in nature.

Here are some further questions metaphysicians might investigate:

• What is the fundamental nature of reality?
• What is time? What is space?
• What is the relationship between mind and body?
• What does it mean for something to exist?
• What does it mean for something not to exist?
• What is the cosmos and everything in it made out of, and why?
• Why does the cosmos exist in the way that it does?
• Why does the cosmos exist at all?
• Is ours the only cosmos that could exist?
• Is everything in the cosmos contingent? Or is anything necessary?
• What is identity? What is change? How is change possible?
• Who or what is the self?
• What happens to the self after death?
• What does it mean for someone to act freely?
• Is true freedom possible?

Why is metaphysics important today?

E xploring such abstract, evidence-resistant metaphysical questions might seem pointless. Why argue about things we may never have an answer to? Why spill oceans of ink over things so far removed from everyday life? Why intrude on what is clearly now science’s territory and try to make grand arguments and construct complex theories about the fundamental nature of reality, its laws and emergent properties?

Well, defenders of metaphysics might state that it’s only by running up against the limitations of our language, by attempting to be clear-sighted at the hazy frontiers of our knowledge, that we can inch-by-inch, foot-by-foot, make progress.

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Metaphysics adds a level of conceptual rigor and clarity that can only improve the steadfastness of our knowledge: it is not here to compete with or replace any other fields, it is here as a necessary supplement to them in our quest for truth about reality.

Indeed, some argue that there is no real need to create a hard distinction between metaphysics and the sciences at all, for their aims are continuous and complementary.

And besides: dwelling on the actuality behind life is interesting, and good for the soul.

As Bertrand Russell puts it about philosophy generally, in a quotation that could readily be used to defend the study of metaphysics specifically:

Philosophy is to be studied, not for the sake of any definite answers to its questions since no definite answers can, as a rule, be known to be true, but rather for the sake of the questions themselves; because these questions enlarge our conception of what is possible, enrich our intellectual imagination and diminish the dogmatic assurance which closes the mind against speculation; but above all because, through the greatness of the universe which philosophy contemplates, the mind also is rendered great, and becomes capable of that union with the universe which constitutes its highest good.

Learn more about metaphysics

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case study based questions on power sharing class 10

How does physics help improve our lives?

Physics helps us to understand how the world around us works, from can openers, light bulbs and cell phones to muscles, lungs and brains; from paints, piccolos and pirouettes to cameras, cars and cathedrals; from earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes to quarks, DNA and black holes.

What are some examples of physics in everyday life?

• Alarm Clock. Physics gets involved in your daily life right after you wake up in the morning.
• Steam Iron.
• Ball Point Pen.
• Headphones/Earphones.
• Car Seat-Belts.
• Camera Lens.
• Cell Phones.

How does physics change the world?

Physics has helped us better understand all the natural processes around us, and we have used this knowledge to create things to benefit society, such as the prediction of weather and natural disasters.

Why do we need physics?

Physics helps you to understand the world around you, and satisfy your curiosity. Studying physics develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Physicists are versatile, which opens a wide range of future careers.

What is the importance of science in our daily life?

Science generates solutions for everyday life and helps us to answer the great mysteries of the universe. In other words, science is one of the most important channels of knowledge.

How is physics used in technology?

Physics is the most fundamental of all the sciences and has a wide range of applications to modern technologies. The importance of physics in modern technology can be recognized because it enables mobile devices, computers, televisions, watches, and many other modern technologies to operate in an automated manner.

What is the importance of science in our daily life essay?

Science plays an important part in our daily life. It has made our life easier and more comfortable. Science is nothing but a systematic way of knowledge and living. Man’s behavior of inquiringly, alertness and keen observation of changes in natural happenings has given birth to science and scientific study.

Can live without physics?

We can conclusively say that physics governs our lives and ease our day-to-day operations. Without the understanding of physics today, many applications in physics such as electronics and mechanics would not exist today. We would be living without modern technology or instruments.

What problems can physics solve?

Physics not only helps us to understand how the world works, but also can help develop new technologies that address social issues such as energy generation and water purification.

What concepts is important to physics?

• The universe is made of matter and energy. At the smallest level, matter is made of elementary particles which have mass and charge.
• The universe evolves by means of interactions.
• Some quantities are conserved.
• There are four fundamental forces.
• Waves carry energy.

What is physics and why do we study it?

Physics is a natural science that studies matter, its motion and behaviour through space and time. It studies the related entities of energy and force. It is also one of the most fundamental science disciplines and its main goal is to understand how the universe works.

What type of knowledge is gained from physics?

Knowledge & Skills Gained as a Physics Major: Knowledge: Learn how to solve quantitative problems and find relationships between physical factors. Learn how to obtain, organize, analyze, and interpret scientific data.

How can I enjoy physics?

Instead of memorizing formulas, it is better to understand the derivations. Mugging up a number of formulas will only make you more apprehensive of the subject. Rather, if you try and understand where they come from, you will start enjoying physics and its applications!

What are the impact of science on society?

By drastically changing our means of communication, the way we work, our housing, clothes, and food, our methods of transportation, and, indeed, even the length and quality of life itself, science has generated changes in the moral values and basic philosophies of mankind.

What are 3 reasons why science is important?

Science is important for a variety of reasons including: Increases our fundamental knowledge. Creates new technology. Dreams up new applications. A pathway to share ideas.

How does science and technology affect society?

The essence of how science and technology contributes to society is the creation of new knowledge, and then utilization of that knowledge to boost the prosperity of human lives, and to solve the various issues facing society.

What is the role of physics in communication?

Physics allows us to understand the electromagnetic radiation we use to transmit data with fiber optics and satellites and to build computers that interpret those signals and transmit data on the Internet.

How is physics related to biology?

Biology and Physics Working Together Physics provides the basis for biology. Without space, matter, energy and time — components that make up the universe — living organisms would not exist. Physicist Richard Feynman said that everything on earth is made of atoms, basic units of matter, that constantly move.

How science has made our lives pleasant and comfortable?

In fact, science has provided us with so many amenities of life. Science has made human life immensely better than what it was in the past. Science has revolutionaries’ agriculture and now it is possible for us to grow more food it has also enabled us to dress ourselves in a much better manner than our forefathers.

What do you learn in physics?

Understanding of the laws and applications of motion, forces, and gravity. Understanding of the processes of work and energy and the laws of thermodynamics. Understanding of how light and sound waves function in our environment. Understanding of principles of electricity and magnetism and how they are applied.

Why should I take physics in high school?

Knowledge of physics is a prerequisite for many forms of employment. Success in school and on SAT is built on skills—physics builds analytical, critical reading, and problem solving skills. All science and engineering majors must take a 1 year college level Physics course.

Is physics a useful degree?

A Physics Degree is Valuable Physics is sometimes referred to as the “liberal arts” degree of technology because physics majors can go on to careers in fields such as computer science, engineering, and research and development.

How important is problem-solving in physics?

Problem-solving skills are clearly essential to success in a quantitative course in physics. More important, the ability to apply broad physical principles—usually represented by equations—to specific situations is a very powerful form of knowledge. It is much more powerful than memorizing a list of facts.

What is the biggest question in physics?

• What is matter made of?
• Why is gravity so weird?
• Why does time seem to flow only in one direction?
• Where did all the antimatter go?
• What happens in the gray zone between solid and liquid?
• Can we find a unified theory of physics?
• How did life evolve from nonliving matter?

What is the biggest unsolved problem in physics?

Quantum Gravity The biggest unsolved problem in fundamental physics is how gravity and the quantum will be made to coexist within the same theory.

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Meteorites: Why study them? What can they teach us about finding life beyond Earth?

by Laurence Tognetti, Universe Today

Universe Today has explored the importance of studying impact craters, planetary surfaces, exoplanets, astrobiology, solar physics, comets, planetary atmospheres, planetary geophysics, and cosmochemistry, and how this myriad of intricately linked scientific disciplines can assist us in better understanding our place in the cosmos and searching for life beyond Earth.

Here, we will discuss the incredible research field of meteorites and how they help researchers better understand the history of both our solar system and the cosmos, including the benefits and challenges, finding life beyond Earth, and potential routes for upcoming students who wish to pursue studying meteorites. So, why is it so important to study meteorites?

Dr. Alex Ruzicka, who is a Professor in the Department of Geology at Portland State University, tells Universe Today, "They provide our best information about how the solar system formed and evolved. This includes planet formation. We also obtain information on astrophysics (stellar processes) through studies of pre-solar grains."

There is often confusion regarding the differences between an asteroid, meteor, and meteorite , so it's important to explain their respective differences to help better understand why scientists study meteorites and how they study them. An asteroid is a physical, orbiting planetary body that is primarily comprised of rock, but can sometimes be comprised of additional water ice, with most asteroids orbiting in the Main Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter and the remaining orbiting as Trojan Asteroids in the orbit of Jupiter or in the Kuiper Belt with Pluto.

A meteor is the visual phenomena that an asteroid produces as it burns up in a planet's atmosphere, often seen as varying colors from the minerals within the asteroid when heated up. The pieces of the asteroid that survive the fiery entry and hit the ground are called meteorites, which scientists' study to try and learn about the larger asteroid body it came from, and where that asteroid could have come from, as well. But what are some of the benefits and challenges of studying meteorites?

Dr. Ruzicka tells Universe Today, "Benefits: scientific knowledge, information on potential resources (e.g., metals, water) for humans to utilize, information on how to link meteorites and asteroids, which can provide information on space collision hazards for Earth. Challenges: compared to Earth rocks, we lack field evidence for their source bodies and parent bodies (how they relate to other rocks), we have to factor in the element of time that is longer for space rocks than for Earth rocks, and sometimes we are dealing with formation environments completely unlikely what we have on Earth. So, the challenges are big and many."

According to NASA, more than 50,000 meteorites have been retrieved from all over the world, ranging from the deserts of Africa to the snowy plains of Antarctica. In terms of their origins, it is estimated that 99.8% of these meteorites have come from asteroids, with 0.1% coming from the moon and 0.1% coming from Mars.

The reason why we've found meteorites from the moon and Mars is due to pieces of these planetary bodies being catapulted off their surfaces (or sub-surfaces) after experiencing large impacts of their own, and these pieces then travel through the solar system for thousands, if not millions, of years before being caught in Earth's gravity and the rest is history. Therefore, with meteorites originating from multiple locations throughout the solar system, what can meteorites teach us about finding life beyond Earth?

"That the ingredients for making life formed in space and were delivered to Earth," Dr. Ruzicka tells Universe Today. "We know organic molecules formed in gas clouds, were incorporated in our solar system, and processed in asteroidal and cometary bodies under higher temperatures in the presence of water. These were then delivered to Earth which wouldn't have been very hospitable in early times due to sterilizing impacts. We also know that there must have been a lot of planetary rock swapping early when impact rates were high. Life itself may have been transplanted to Earth from Mars."

As it turns out, one of the most fascinating meteorites ever recovered did come from Mars, which was identified as ALH84001, as it was found in Allan Hills of Antarctica on December 27, 1984, during the 1984–85 field season where researchers from all over the world gather in Antarctica to search for meteorites using snowmobiles. Despite being collected in 1984, it wasn't until 1996 that a team of scientists discovered what initially appeared to be evidence of microscopic bacteria fossils within the 1.93-kilogram (4.25-pound) meteorite.

This immediately made headlines across the globe, resulting in countless non-scientific claims that these microfossils were clear evidence of life on Mars. However, both the researchers of the initial study and the scientific community were quick to point out the unlikelihood that these features resulted from life based on other observations made about ALH84001. For example, while ALH84001 is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old, which is when Mars is hypothesized to have possessed liquid water on its surface, radiometric dating techniques revealed that ALH84001 was catapulted off Mars approximately 17 million years ago and landed on Earth approximately 13,000 years ago.

To this day, there has been no clear evidence that ALH84001 ever contained traces of life. Despite this, ALH84001 has nonetheless helped launch the field of astrobiology into new heights, with present-day scientists claiming this one meteorite was the reason they pursued their career path to find life beyond Earth. But what have been the most exciting aspects about meteorites that Dr. Ruzicka has studied throughout his career?

Dr. Ruzicka tells Universe Today, "A lot is interesting, what's most exciting? That's hard to say. I get satisfaction from taking clues left by the rocks to figure out or constrain the processes that formed them. I am engaged in a meteoritic version of CSI, we can call it MSI (for meteoritic scene investigation)."

Like many scientific fields, this "meteoritic version of CSI" requires individuals from a myriad of backgrounds and disciplines, including geology, physics, geochemistry, cosmochemistry, mineralogy, and artificial intelligence , just to name a few, with the aforementioned radiometric dating frequently used to estimate the ages of meteorites by measuring the radioactive isotopes within the sample. It is through this constant collaboration and innovation that scientists continue to unlock the secrets of meteorites with the goal of understanding their origins and compositions, along with how our solar system, and life on Earth (and possibly elsewhere), came to be. Therefore, what advice can Dr. Ruzicka offer upcoming students who wish to pursue studying meteorites?

Dr. Ruzicka tells Universe Today, "Work hard and pursue your dreams. Find a rigorous program of study because it will come in handy."

While meteorites are space rocks that crash land on Earth after traveling through the heavens for millions, and possibly billions, of years, these incredible geologic specimens are slowly helping scientists' piece together the origins of the solar system and beyond, and even how life might have come to be on our small, blue world, and possibly elsewhere. With a myriad of tools and instruments at their disposal, scientists from all over the world will continue to study meteorites in hopes of answering the universe's toughest questions.

Dr. Ruzicka concludes by telling Universe Today, "Rocks from space are the best kinds of rocks to study. Way more cool than most rocks on Earth because they are in some ways more puzzling."

Provided by Universe Today

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A Solar Eclipse Means Big Science

By Katrina Miller April 1, 2024

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On April 8, cameras all over North America will make a “megamovie” of the sun’s corona, like this one from the 2017 eclipse. The time lapse will help scientists track the behavior of jets and plumes on the sun’s surface.

There’s more science happening along the path of totality →

An app named SunSketcher will help the public take pictures of the eclipse with their phones.

Scientists will use these images to study deviations in the shape of the solar surface , which will help them understand the sun’s churning behavior below.

The sun right now is approaching peak activity. More than 40 telescope stations along the eclipse’s path will record totality.

By comparing these videos to what was captured in 2017 — when the sun was at a lull — researchers can learn how the sun’s magnetism drives the solar wind, or particles that stream through the solar system.

Students will launch giant balloons equipped with cameras and sensors along the eclipse’s path.

Their measurements may improve weather forecasting , and also produce a bird’s eye view of the moon’s shadow moving across the Earth.

Ham radio operators will send signals to each other across the path of totality to study how the density of electrons in Earth’s upper atmosphere changes .

This can help quantify how space weather produced by the sun disrupts radar communication systems.

(Animation by Dr. Joseph Huba, Syntek Technologies; HamSCI Project, Dr. Nathaniel Frissell, the University of Scranton, NSF and NASA.)

NASA is also studying Earth’s atmosphere, but far from the path of totality.

In Virginia, the agency will launch rockets during the eclipse to measure how local drops in sunlight cause ripple effects hundreds of miles away . The data will clarify how eclipses and other solar events affect satellite communications, including GPS.

Biologists in San Antonio plan to stash recording devices in beehives to study how bees orient themselves using sunlight , and how the insects respond to the sudden atmospheric changes during a total eclipse.

Two researchers in southern Illinois will analyze social media posts to understand tourism patterns in remote towns , including when visitors arrive, where they come from and what they do during their visits.

Results can help bolster infrastructure to support large events in rural areas.

Read more about the eclipse:

Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Hearing the Eclipse:  A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Maine Brac es Itself :  Businesses and planning committees are eager for visitors, but some in remote Aroostook County are not sure how they feel  about lying smack in the path of totality.

A Dark Day for Buffalo:  When the sky above Buffalo briefly goes dark  on the afternoon of April 8, the city will transcend its dreary place in the public consciousness — measured as it so often is by snowstorms — if only for about three minutes. The city can’t wait.

Under the Moon’s Shadow:  The late Jay Pasachoff, who spent a lifetime chasing eclipses , inspired generations of students to become astronomers by dragging them to the ends of the Earth for a few precarious moments of ecstasy.

A Rare Return:  It is rare for a total solar eclipse to hit the same place twice — once every 366 years on average. People in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse  about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

A Small City’s Big Plans:  Let the big cities have their eclipse mega-events. In Plattsburgh, N.Y., success looks different  for everyone stopping to look up.

 No Power Outages:  When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice  a sudden loss of energy.

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Why a solar eclipse could ruin your phone camera

Cellphones need protection from the sun, too.

Cassidy Johncox , Senior News Editor

DETROIT – Experts anywhere will tell you that staring at the sun is not safe for your eyes -- including during a total solar eclipse , like the one happening next week across North America.

People who plan to watch the moon eclipse the sun on Monday, April 8 are urged to wear special glasses, or to use viewing devices designed for eclipses. The special glasses and viewers use filters and other methods to protect your eyes from the harsh sunlight while watching the phenomenon.

But what about your phone? Is it safe to point your cellphone camera to the sky during an eclipse?

The short answer: No.

The sun isn’t brighter, nor does it emit more dangerous UV rays during an eclipse. Still, the sun is extremely bright, and people are advised not to look directly at it ... pretty much ever.

Just as the sun can cause damage to eyeballs, it can damage cameras, too. The lens in your cellphone camera will actually concentrate the light coming from the sun, which can damage or destroy the camera, experts say.

The same can be said for larger cameras with larger lenses. The lenses can magnify the intensity of the sunlight and damage the equipment. People are especially urged not to look through the viewfinder of a camera while it is pointed directly at the sun, since that concentrated light can seriously damage your eyes.

---> Why you probably shouldn’t go to this Michigan city to watch April 8 solar eclipse

How to protect your cameras

Just as you protect your eyes with specially-filtered glasses, camera lenses can be protected with filters, too. It’s important to buy certified filters that meet safety standards, for both your eyes and your cameras.

For a cellphone, there are filters available for purchase that you can hold directly in front of the phone, protecting the lens from the sun.

For larger cameras, a solar filter should be placed on top of your lens for protection. Experts say it’s important to use a properly designated solar filter, rather than using a neutral density filter. Solar filters reportedly protect the camera and the cameraperson’s eyes from invisible infrared and ultraviolet radiation, in addition to dimming the sunlight.

People should only buy eclipse glasses and viewers that meet a certain safety standard known as ISO 12312-2 . That figure should be printed somewhere on a certified product.

---> Why experts say eclipse glasses shouldn’t be bought on Amazon, Temu

Important glasses safety tip

When wearing ISO-compliant solar viewers, it’s important not to look at the sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other device. The solar rays are more concentrated there, and can burn right through the filter and cause serious eye injury.

Where to buy safe eclipse-viewing glasses

The American Astronomical Society makes a significant effort to find and list all reliable sellers who have products that meet the specific ISO standard.

“We do not recommend searching for eclipse glasses on Amazon, eBay, Temu, or any other online marketplace and buying from whichever vendor offers the lowest price,” the AAS writes on its website. You can find the entire list of vendors that meet the requirements the AAS’ website here.

There are some large chains that are selling safe solar viewers and filters, though not all locations have them. The AAS says people can buy glasses and filters in store at the following businesses:

• Cracker Barrel
• Warby Parker (available in stores for free starting April 1 while supplies last; limit two per person)

Shoppers are urged to not buy glasses or viewers on those businesses’ websites, however, since “some chains use different suppliers for their websites than they do for their stores,” the AAS writes .

Click here to learn more about safe eclipse glasses and filters from the AAS.

Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

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Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.

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