INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS

What is Physics?
Physics, as a science subject, can be defined as an aspect of science, which studies the
composition and behaviour of matter in relation to its energy.
Physics is a good example of experimental science, because it involves observations and
measurements. The entire concepts of physics is to help us to understand and survive in the
world in which we live in and those around us.
BRANCHES OF PHYSICS.
The whole body of knowledge of physics is developed into various ideas and concepts, some of
which are as follows:
1. Optics
2. Mechanics
3. Magnetism
4. Atomic physics
5. Astrophysics
6. Molecular physics
7. Electricity
8. Sound
9. Thermodynamics
10. Biophysics.

i. .ASTROPHYSICS: This is the study of the celestial world. One could design satellites,
with the knowledge of this field of physics. And even carry out research in outer space.
ii. MOLECULAR PHYSICS: The study of entire molecular and the binding forces in
atoms that form them.
iii. ATOMIC PHYSICS: This is the branch of physics that deals with atoms and their
structures
iv. BIOPHYSICS: This branch of physics deals with physics of living things. It is very
useful in medicine. And it combines physics with biology.
v. THERMODYNAMICS: It deals with the study of heat and temperature, and how they
relate with other forms of energy.
vi. OPTICS: This is the field of physics that studies the behaviour and properties of light
waves. It applications can be found in LASERS, X-Rays, Fluorescent tubes, Mechanics,
etc.
vii. .ELECTRICITY: This branch of physics explains the relationship between current flows
and voltage developed, as a result of flow of charges in a conductor.
viii. MECHANICS: This branch of physics studies the motion of matter (Solids, Liquids and
Gases). There are two sub-branches of mechanics; KINEMATICS and DYNAMICS
Kinematics Studies movement/motion of an object without considering the force causing
 it while Dynamics (or Kinetics) studies movement/motion of an object with respect to the
force causing it.
ix. SOUNDS: This branch of physics deals with the study of the disturbance of mass of air
molecules to produce sound waves with respect to energy. The greater the mass of air set
into vibration (disturbance) the louder the sound, and vice versa.
x. MAGNETISM: This is the branch of physics “studies the attracting properties of solid
substances. Due to tiny atomic current which exists in them.