LESSON 1

INTRODUCTION: PHYSICS AND ITS BRANCHES

Learning outcomes

In this lesson, you are expected to have:

a. explained what physics is; and

b. described the different branches of physics.

Time Frame: 3 hours

Let’s begin
Welcome to this first module of mechanics and heat. This module will introduce to
the students the overview of the course. It will tackle what physics and its branches is.
Physics plays an important role in many disciplines and contributes to understanding
energy, weather, and exploration in outer space.

Fuel the Thrill

Answer the question.

1. What is Physics?

Let’s discuss
Let us know first what Physics is.

The word physics is obtained from the Latin word “physical", meaning “natural
thing.”

Definition of Physics according to by the Oxford English Dictionary

“Physics is the branch of science concerned with the nature and properties
of matter and energy. The subject matter of physics includes mechanics,
heat, light and other radiation, sound, electricity, magnetism, and atoms'
structure.”

Definition of Physics according to by the Microsoft Encarta

“It is a major science dealing with the fundamental constituents of the
universe, the forces they exert on one another, and the results produced
 by these forces. Sometimes in modern physics, a more sophisticated
approach is taken that incorporates elements of the three areas listed
above; it relates to the laws of symmetry and conservation, such as those
about energy, momentum, charge, and parity.”

With these definitions, it indicates that physics is a branch of science that deals
with the properties of matter and energy and the relationship between them. It also tries
to explain the material world and the natural phenomena of the universe.

Watch the video on the introduction to physics:

https://www.khanacademy.org/science/ap-physics-1/ap-one-dimensional-motion/ap-
physics-foundations/v/introduction-to-physics.

Untwist the loop

Branches of Physics. Describe the following: (Answer in a long bond paper).

1. Classical Physics 7. Mechanics

2. Modern Physics 8. Acoustics
3. Nuclear Physics 9. Optics
4. Atomic Physics 10. Thermodynamics
5. Geophysics 11. Astrophysics
6. Biophysics

Speak your mind

Answer in a long bond paper.

1. List 20 famous physicist and their contributions to physics.

Extend your horizon

IMPORTANT CONCEPTS TO REMEMBER
• Physics is a branch of science that deals with the properties of matter and energy
and the relationship between them
• Physics helps us to organize the universe.

References
OpenStax College (2012). College Physics.OpenStax College, Rice Univesity.
http://cnx.org/content/col11406/latest/