What Is Physics?

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The discussion centers on defining physics, with participants sharing their thoughts on the subject. One contributor suggests that physics is the study of matter and energy, while another references a Wikipedia definition that includes various branches like mechanics and thermodynamics. There is a humorous comparison made, likening physics to pornography in that it is hard to define but recognizable. The conversation is noted to stray from the forum's intended focus, leading to its closure. Overall, the thread highlights the complexity and breadth of physics as a scientific discipline.
RaphaelHythlodaeus
I have been away from school the last two years but am planning on returning in the Spring of 2018. I am finishing up my major in Biochemistry and I am interested in finding a community where I can discuss scientific ideas.

My questions to all is: what is physics?
 
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RaphaelHythlodaeus said:
I have been away from school the last two years but am planning on returning in the Spring of 2018. I am finishing up my major in Biochemistry and I am interested in finding a community where I can discuss scientific ideas.

My questions to all is: what is physics?
What research have you done so far? What do YOU think physics is?
 
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phinds said:
What research have you done so far? What do YOU think physics is?
Well, I have not thoroughly researched the subject. I do have four semesters of physics but I was more interested in a survey of the question. I guess, that physics is the study of the basic constituents of matter and energy, that seems like a fairly simple definition.

What do you think?
 
RaphaelHythlodaeus said:
What do you think?
I'm perfectly happy w/ what the wiki says:
PHYSICS: the branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. The subject matter of physics, distinguished from that of chemistry and biology, includes mechanics, heat, light and other radiation, sound, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of atoms.

Although I think that definition shortchanges cosmology a bit.

OR ... to put it another way, physics is like pornography. I can't define it, but I know it when I see it.
 
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RaphaelHythlodaeus said:
I do have four semesters of physics but I was more interested in a survey of the question.

we don't really do surveys here

@phinds gave you a pretty good response
 
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Yes, this isn't really appropriate for what the forum is about. Locked.
 

Thread 'Need help understanding particle physics and quantum physics'

So I know that electrons are fundamental, there's no 'material' that makes them up, it's like talking about a colour itself rather than a car or a flower. Now protons and neutrons and quarks and whatever other stuff is there fundamentally, I want someone to kind of teach me these, I have a lot of questions that books might not give the answer in the way I understand. Thanks
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