Physics Introduction
Physics Introduction
Science: Physics
Exploring Key Concepts in Physics
Presented by: [Sana Shafiq]
What is Physics?
• Definition: The study of matter, energy, and the
fundamental forces that shape our universe.
• Importance: Helps us understand the laws that govern
nature, from tiny subatomic particles to vast galaxies.
• Major Divisions:
- Classical Physics: Newtonian mechanics,
electromagnetism, thermodynamics.
• - Modern Physics: Relativity, quantum mechanics,
particle physics.
• - Applied Physics: Bridges physics with technology and
engineering.
• - Theoretical Physics: Explores mathematical models
to explain physical phenomena.
The Theory of Relativity - Introduction
• Developed by: Albert Einstein in the early 20th
century.
• Revolutionized Physics: Changed how we
understand time, space, and gravity.
• Two Major Components:
• - Special Relativity (1905): Deals with high-
speed motion and the constancy of the speed of
light.
• - General Relativity (1915): Describes how
gravity affects space and time.
• Impact on Modern Science: Basis for GPS
technology, space exploration, and black hole
studies.
Key Concepts of Special Relativity
• Postulates:
• - The laws of physics are the same in all inertial frames.
• - The speed of light in a vacuum is constant, regardless
of the observer's motion.
• Effects of Special Relativity:
- Time Dilation: Moving clocks tick slower as speed
increases.
- Length Contraction: Objects appear shorter in the
direction of motion.
- Mass-Energy Equivalence: E = mc² (Energy and mass
are interchangeable).
- Relativistic Doppler Effect: Frequency shift of light from
moving objects.
Quantum Behavior and Uncertainty
• Introduction to Quantum Mechanics:
• - Explores physics at atomic and subatomic levels.
• - Introduces probability-based interpretations of reality.
• Key Principles:
• - Wave-Particle Duality: Particles like electrons behave
as both waves and particles.
• - Uncertainty Principle (Heisenberg): One cannot
precisely measure both position and momentum
simultaneously.
• - Quantum Entanglement: Particles can be instantly
correlated over long distances.
• - Quantum Superposition: Particles exist in multiple
states until measured.
Astrophysics and Cosmology -
Introduction
• Astrophysics: The study of celestial
objects and their interactions.
• Cosmology: The study of the origin,
structure, and evolution of the universe.
• Key Questions:
• - How did the universe begin?
• - What is the fate of the universe?
• - What are dark matter and dark energy?
• - Are we alone in the universe?
Light - Properties and Behavior
• Definition: Electromagnetic radiation that can
travel through a vacuum.
• Wave-Particle Duality: Behaves as both a wave
and a particle.
• Key Properties:
• - Speed: 3 × 10⁸ m/s in a vacuum.
• - Reflection, Refraction, and Dispersion.
• - Different wavelengths correspond to different
colors.
• - Polarization and Interference phenomena.
• Applications in fiber optics, photography, and
astronomy.
Sound - Properties and Behavior
• Definition: A mechanical wave that requires a medium to
travel.
• Key Properties:
• - Speed depends on the medium (fastest in solids,
slowest in gases).
• - Frequency determines pitch.
• - Amplitude determines loudness.
• - Doppler Effect: Frequency shift due to motion of the
source.
• Applications:
• - Ultrasound in medicine.
• - Echolocation in animals.
• - Noise-canceling technology.
• - Seismology (study of earthquakes and sound waves in
the Earth).
Conclusion
• Physics helps us understand fundamental principles
governing nature.
• The Theory of Relativity changed our view of space
and time.
• Quantum Mechanics reveals the mysteries of the
atomic world.
• Astrophysics and Cosmology explore the origins and
future of the universe.
• Light and sound play crucial roles in our daily lives
and technology.
• Physics continues to drive technological
advancements, from AI to space travel.