Introduction to Physics

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the definition of physics, its status as a fundamental science, historical branches, and its foundational role in other scientific and engineering disciplines.

Physics

The study of various physical phenomena and the fundamental laws governing them.

Laws of Physics

The principles of nature that are discovered by people rather than invented.

Fundamental science

A classification of physics because it deals with the most basic things of nature like force, motion, matter, and energy.

Physical Phenomenon

A natural occurrence such as the formation of a rainbow or the formation of clouds.

Chemical Phenomenon

A chemical process such as the conversion of wood into ash or the rusting of iron.

Biological Phenomenon

A process in living organisms such as the pumping of blood by the heart or the exchange of gases through the lungs.

Classical Physics

The branch of physics developed before the $19^{th}$ century, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and optics.

Modern Physics

The branch of physics developed after the $19^{th}$ century, including atomic, nuclear, and quantum physics.

Classical Mechanics

The study of effects produced by a force, such as the motion of a car or loading on a bridge.

Wave Physics

The study of effects produced by a vibration or an oscillation, including sound and waves on a water surface.

Thermodynamics

The study of effects produced by heat, such as the expansion of mercury in a thermometer or the working of a refrigerator.

Electromagnetism

The study of effects produced by an electric charge or a magnet.

Optics

The study of effects produced by light, such as eyesight correction using spectacles or the color of the sky.

Atomic Physics

The study of the structure of an atom and the characteristics of subatomic particles.

Nuclear Physics

The study of atomic nuclei and their constituent particles, used in radiotherapy and carbon dating.

Quantum Mechanics

The branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic scale, applied in technologies like smart phones and MRI.

Foundation of Science

The role of physics in providing the fundamental principles required for biology, chemistry, geology, and astronomy.

Foundation of Engineering

The role of physics in providing the set of rules used by civil, mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineers to design structures and systems.