How can we distinguish classical physics and modern physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the classification of topics within classical and modern physics, exploring how to distinguish between the two categories. Participants express varying opinions on the significance of such classifications and inquire about the branches of each field.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the relevance of classifying topics as classical or modern physics.
  • Others suggest that the classification is often determined by academic curricula rather than strict definitions.
  • A few participants express a desire to understand the different branches of classical and modern physics.
  • There is a suggestion that "modern" physics may be a term more specific to certain regions, particularly in the US and Canada, and may refer to advances made after 1900.
  • Some participants note that "modern" physics is used as a course title in various educational institutions, including references to quantum mechanics and relativity.
  • One participant asserts that the organization of topics may not have a meaningful structure as suggested by others.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the importance of classifying physics topics, with some viewing it as irrelevant while others seek clarity on the branches of each field. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the significance and structure of these classifications.

Contextual Notes

There are indications that the definitions and classifications may depend on regional educational practices and that the organization of topics may not be universally applicable.

Aafia
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How to decide whether a particular topic is studied in classical physics or modern physics?
 
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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.
 

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