Physics and its Branches

The term Science is derived from the latin word, Scientia which means 'know'. Physics is a branch of science deals with the study of matter and energy. The goal of physics is to comprehend the nature of matter and the reasons behind its behavior. It is the study to understand how energy is created, how it moves, and how it may be managed. The relationship between matter and energy, as well as how they influence one another over time and space, are other topics of interest to physicists. The Greek word for "physics" means "natural things." Semi-conductor devices, including the transistor, were created by solid-state physicists. The electronics sector grew significantly as a result of these devices. Astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and other sciences all benefit from knowledge gained by studying physics. Additionally, physics and real-world advancements in engineering, health, and technology are closely related. Physics is the first branch of science developed by man based on the motion of stars and celestial bodies. Modern physics and Classical physics are the two main branches of physics.

Classical Physics

Refers to the traditional physics that was identified and developed before the 20th century. The main branches are given below.

1. Classical Mechanics - The study of force exerted on an object in motion or at rest. Mechanics is the field of physics that studies the effects of forces on solids, liquids and gasses at rest or in motion. Mechanics can be divided into two branches - statics and dynamics. Statics studies bodies at rest or in motion at a constant speed and in a constant direction. Dynamics is the study of bodies that undergo a change of speed or direction or both, when forces at upon them. Kinematics and Kinetics are the two branches of Dynamics.

2. Thermodynamics - Thermodynamics is the study of various forms of energy, such as heat and work and of the conversion of energy from one form into another.

3. Optics - Optics is the branch of physics and engineering that is concerned with the properties of light. It describes how light is produced, how it is transmitted and how it can be dectected, measured and used.

4. Electricity and Magnetism - The study of electricity and magnetism and their interrelationships.

5. Acoustics - It is a branch of classical physics that deals with the study of sound, including its production, transmission, and effects.

6. Astrophysics - Astrophysics is a branch of physics that studies the physical and chemical structure of stars, planets, and other objects in space.

7. Relativity - One of the branches of theoretical physics, the study of the interrelationship of space, time, and energy when an object is in motion.

Modern Physics

Refers to a concept in physics that has emerged since the beginning of the 20th century.

1. Quantum Mechanics - Quantum Mechanics is a branch of physics that describes the nature, structure, phenomenon and motion of the atomic and sub atomic particles.

2. Atomic Physics - The branch of science that studies the structure and properties of atoms.

3. Nuclear Physics - Nuclear Physics is the branch of modern physics that deals with the study of properties, structure and reactions of atomic nuclei.

4. Condensed Matter Physics - This field of science includes the study of the properties of condensed matter, the developing fields of nanoscience, and photonics as subfields.

5. High Energy Physics - High Energy Physics or particle physics, is a branch of physics that focuses on the fundamental constituents of matter and radiation, and the forces that govern their interactions.

6. Electronics - Electronics is the branch of physics and engineering closely related to the science of electricity. It is the study of nature, control and application of electrons.