What is Physics?

PhysicsThe word Physics is originated from the

Greek word “physikos”. In physics, we study natural phenomena and

the properties of matter. The aim of physics is to explain the fundamental nature of the universe by using the concept of physics.

Physics involves the conduct of studies and experiments to find answers to the question “Why?” and “How?” in relation to the mysteries of the universe.

Physics cont.The majority of natural phenomena can be

explained using the principles of physics, for example:We cannot see an object behind a wall because

light travels in a straight line.The image of the pencil formed by the mirror is

due to the reflection of light.

Fields of PhysicsThe scope of physics very wide. Knowledge of

physics is grouped into different fields of study.Force and Motion (investigates the

action of force and motion)Forces and Pressure (pressure in liquids, gas

pressure, atmospheric pressure, Pascal’s principle, Archimedes’ principle, Bernoulli’s principle

Fields of Physics cont.Heat (Studies the influence of heat on different

types of matter.)Light (explains the different phenomenon due to

light)Electricity and Electromagnetism

(Investigates the interactions of electrical and magnetic fields.)

Electronics (studies the use of electronic devices in various fields

Waves (Understands the properties of different types of waves and their uses.)

Scientific MethodA systematic method of observing,

experimenting and analyzing data.

Steps of Scientific method1. Stating a Problem2. Research and gather information3. Form a hypothesis (should be in an if/then statement)4. Test the hypothesis (experiment)5. Analyze Data6. Draw conclusions ( was the hypothesis

supported?)

Your Turn!Design an experiment using the steps of the

scientific method.Your experiment must have dependent and

independent variables plus a control group.The independent variable in an experiment is

the variable that YOU change in order to affect the dependent variable.

The dependent variable is what is being measured, or what is being affected.