I How can we distinguish classical physics and modern physics?

AI Thread Summary
The classification of topics into classical or modern physics is often determined by academic curriculum rather than strict definitions. Modern physics generally refers to concepts developed after 1900, including relativity and quantum physics, and is often used as a course title in various universities. The distinction may not hold significant meaning, as many topics overlap and can be relevant in both contexts. The discussion highlights that the organization of physics topics is more fluid than rigidly categorized. Ultimately, the relevance of these classifications may be limited in practical academic settings.
Aafia
Messages
70
Reaction score
1
How to decide whether a particular topic is studied in classical physics or modern physics?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Aafia said:
How to decide whether a particular topic is studied in classical physics or modern physics?
Who cares?
 
PeroK said:
Who cares?
What do you mean by it?
 
Aafia said:
What do you mean by it?
Why does it matter what classification is given to a topic?
 
Aafia said:
How to decide whether a particular topic is studied in classical physics or modern physics?
Typically, they are studied in an order or grouping determined by the college's plan of study, and how to classify them isn't really a relevant issue.
 
russ_watters said:
Typically, they are studied in an order or grouping determined by the college's plan of study, and how to classify them isn't really a relevant issue.
I actually wanted to know what are the different branches of classical physics and modern physics.
 
Aafia said:
I actually wanted to know what are the different branches of classical physics and modern physics.

Who says classical physics can't be modern?
 
The term "Modern" Physics may be specific to US and Canada.
It is more like an academic term (used as a course name in college).
Includes mainly relativity and "quantum physics" (which may not be the same as quantum mechanics proper but rather atomic and nuclear physics). I suppose includes the physics advances made after about 1900.
 
nasu said:
The term "Modern" Physics may be specific to US and Canada.
It is more like an academic term (used as a course name in college).
Includes mainly relativity and "quantum physics" (which may not be the same as quantum mechanics proper but rather atomic and nuclear physics). I suppose includes the physics advances made after about 1900.
Modern physics is used as the title for the first year quantum mechanics and special relativity course at some universities in the UK also.
 
  • #10
Aafia said:
I actually wanted to know what are the different branches of classical physics and modern physics.
Ultimately, I think what the collective answers here are telling you is that these questions don't have a lot of meaning. The level of organization of topics you are suggesting you want to know about doesn't really exist.
 
  • #11
russ_watters said:
Ultimately, I think what the collective answers here are telling you is that these questions don't have a lot of meaning. The level of organization of topics you are suggesting you want to know about doesn't really exist.
Oh.. Okay! Thank you
 
  • #12
Vagn said:
Modern physics is used as the title for the first year quantum mechanics and special relativity course at some universities in the UK also.
Yes you are right.
 

Similar threads

A Classical interpretation of the Thomson experiment compared to the modern quantum perspective
Replies
7
Views
1K
Equations of State in Modern Classical Physics (Thorne/Blandford)
Replies
7
Views
2K
B Is Relativity the Evolution of Classical Physics?
Replies
9
Views
2K
I Physical reality of nontrivial loops in SO(3)
Replies
6
Views
2K
A Radiation back reaction in classical electrodynamics
Replies
5
Views
2K
Quantum Looking for upper division modern physics book
Replies
9
Views
2K
I Deriving formula for kinetic energy
Replies
3
Views
1K
A What are the most important open questions in classical physics?
Replies
6
Views
2K
I Is physics of living matter an undiscovered territory?
Replies
8
Views
1K
I Relationship between nuclear magnetic physics and Maxwell's demon
Replies
1
Views
127

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top