What are the physics behind the internet?

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    Internet Physics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics underlying the internet, particularly focusing on the types of waves and electromagnetic radiation involved in its functioning. Participants explore various aspects of how information is transmitted and stored within the technology of the internet.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Kroose65 seeks information on the physics of the internet, specifically regarding the types of waves and electromagnetic radiation used for data transmission.
  • One participant suggests using Google and Wikipedia to find resources on how the internet functions.
  • Another participant argues that the internet is closely related to pure physics, as it involves phenomena such as light, magnetism, radiowaves, and voltage.
  • Bobbywhy challenges the notion that these phenomena are "pretty far away from pure physics," asserting their fundamental importance to understanding the internet.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the relationship between the internet and pure physics. While some participants view the internet as largely separate from physics, others argue that its functioning is deeply rooted in physical principles.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with the topic, and there are no settled definitions or frameworks for discussing the physics of the internet. The discussion reflects a range of perspectives on the relevance of physical phenomena to the technology.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in the intersection of physics and technology, particularly those exploring the scientific principles behind modern communication systems.

Kroose65
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Hi all,

First all I am new here so if this is in the wrong spot I am sorry. I need to do an assignment for school about physics in relation to a technology, I choose the internet. The only problem is that I am not sure the information I got is correct or even enough. I've got stuff about how computers are able to reach each other over the internet but I don't know where to find any stuff about what waves the internet uses/emr's etc. If anyone knew any websites or even books that will explain it clearly that would be a great help!

Thank you all in advance, Kroose65
 
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Kroose65, Welcome to Physics Forums.

Have you used Google with the search terms "how does the internet function" yet? I did and got tons of sites explaining exactly what you have asked.

We have a saying here: "Google is you friend" It is a saying here because it contains a big truth. Learn to use Googel and Wikipedia, they are both your friends. Let us know if you have questions or doubts about what you find there. We here at PF are ready and willing to assist you along your journey.
 
The internet is pretty far away from pure physics I'd say.

The internet is information. That information exists in various forms while traveling or stored: as light, as magnetism, as radiowaves or as voltage.

You could shortly explain each of these phenomenoi or narrow it down to a single subject, like magnetic storage.
 
Hulkiedulkie said:
The internet is pretty far away from pure physics I'd say.

The internet is information. That information exists in various forms while traveling or stored: as light, as magnetism, as radiowaves or as voltage.

You could shortly explain each of these phenomenoi or narrow it down to a single subject, like magnetic storage.

Hulkiedulkie, Welcome to Physics Forums!

I respectfully disagree with the statement that light, magnetism, radiowaves, voltage and magnetic storage are "pretty far away from pure physics". It seems to me those things form a large and important part of pure physics. How the internet functions depends completely on those kinds of phenomena.

You are correct that the internet is a source of information. We have never had such a source before!

Cheers, Bobbywhy
 
Thanks guys, I will have a go now!
 

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