Introduction to Physics and Historical Figures

Vocabulary flashcards detailing the definitions, Greek origins, and key historical figures of physics including Isaac Newton and Galileo Galilei.

Physics

A branch of science that studies matter, energy, motion, force, time, and space, and how they interact with one another.

$$Phusis$$

The Ancient Greek word meaning nature, from which the word Physics originated.

$$Physike$$

The Ancient Greek term meaning knowledge of nature.

Natural Philosophy

The field of study from which Physics started before developing during the Scientific Revolution.

Isaac Newton

The Father of Classical Physics whose major contributions include the Laws of motion, the Universal Law of Gravitation, the development of calculus, and the study of light and optics.

Galileo Galilei

The Father of Modern Physics who improved the telescope, studied falling objects, supported heliocentric theory, and laid the foundation for the modern scientific method.

Paul Hewitt

The author who described science as a body of knowledge about nature representing the collective effort, findings, insight, and wisdom of the human race.

Scientific Revolution

The historical period led by Galileo Galilei and Isaac Newton during which Physics was significantly developed.