Physics in Everyday Life – Introduction to Motion

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture on physics and motion.

Physics

The basic science that studies motion, forces, energy, matter, heat, sound, light, and the structure of atoms.

Classical Physics

Branch of physics dealing with motion, fluids, heat, sound, light, electricity, and magnetism—topics developed before the 20th-century revolution in science.

Modern Physics

Branch of physics that includes relativity, atomic structure, quantum theory, condensed-matter physics, nuclear physics, and astrophysics.

Motion

A change in the position of an object with respect to its surroundings during a given time interval.

Translational Motion

Movement of an object along a straight line or curved path without rotation.

Rotational Motion

Movement of an object about an internal or external axis.

Reference Frame

The coordinate system or viewpoint used to describe the position and motion of objects.

Relative Motion

The idea that motion depends on the observer’s chosen reference frame; no motion is absolute.

Distance

Total length of the path traveled between two positions; a scalar quantity.

Displacement

The change in position of an object from start to finish, including direction; a vector quantity.

Speed

Distance traveled divided by the time taken (s = d/t); a scalar quantity with magnitude only.

Average Speed

Total distance traveled divided by total time elapsed for a trip.

Velocity

Displacement divided by the time taken (v = Δx/Δt); includes both magnitude and direction.

Average Velocity

Total displacement divided by total time for a motion; may be positive or negative depending on direction.

Scalar Quantity

Physical quantity described by magnitude only, e.g., distance or speed.

Vector Quantity

Physical quantity described by both magnitude and direction, e.g., displacement or velocity.

Relativity

Modern-physics branch studying how motion at high speeds or in strong gravitational fields alters space, time, and energy.

Quantum Theory

Modern-physics framework explaining the discrete behavior of energy, matter, and subatomic particles.

Condensed-Matter Physics

Study of the physical properties of solids and liquids, including superconductivity and semiconductors.

Nuclear Physics

Field that investigates the structure, properties, and reactions of atomic nuclei.

Astrophysics

Application of physics to understand stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole.