May 1, 2024
Updated May 8, 2025
23 minute read
Physics is the natural science that studies matter, its fundamental constituents, its motion and behavior through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. It's a discipline that seeks to understand the most fundamental mechanisms that govern the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies. The pursuit of physics is an endeavor to uncover the elegant and often surprising laws that describe reality.
Working in physics can be incredibly engaging. Imagine contributing to the development of new technologies that could revolutionize energy production, or designing experiments that probe the very nature of existence. Physicists are at the forefront of scientific discovery, constantly pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. Whether it's unraveling the mysteries of dark matter, designing next-generation computing devices, or developing new medical imaging techniques, the field offers a diverse range of intellectually stimulating challenges.
Introduction to Physics
Physics, at its core, is about asking fundamental questions and seeking answers through observation, experimentation, and mathematical reasoning. It's a journey into the heart of how things work, from the everyday phenomena we experience to the most exotic and counterintuitive aspects of the cosmos.
Definition and scope of physics as a natural science
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Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Physics.
This classic three-volume textbook presents a comprehensive overview of physics, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It is known for its clear explanations and engaging style. The authors were all Nobel laureates in physics.
This textbook is known for its clear and engaging explanations of physics concepts. It is also known for its wealth of examples and exercises.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of electrodynamics, including topics such as electrostatics, magnetostatics, and Maxwell's equations. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of thermal physics, including topics such as thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and kinetic theory. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of quantum mechanics, including topics such as the Schrödinger equation, the hydrogen atom, and spin. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of classical mechanics, including topics such as Newtonian mechanics, Lagrangian mechanics, and Hamiltonian mechanics. It is known for its clear explanations and rigorous treatment of the subject.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of particle physics, including topics such as the Standard Model, the Higgs boson, and dark matter. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of relativity, including topics such as special relativity, general relativity, and cosmology. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
This textbook provides a conceptual overview of physics, designed for non-science majors. It is known for its clear explanations and engaging style.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of physics, designed for students of science and engineering. It is known for its clear explanations and up-to-date coverage.
Provides a non-technical introduction to physics, based on six lectures given by Richard Feynman. It is known for its clear explanations and engaging style.
Provides a popular overview of string theory, a candidate for a theory of everything. It is written in a non-technical style and is accessible to a general audience.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
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