Physics-The Study of Matter and Forces
Last Updated :
27 May, 2025
The term "physics" is derived from the Greek word physis (meaning “nature”) and physika (meaning “natural things”). It is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature, seeking to understand the behaviour of the universe from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies.
- Physics is divided into main branches such as Mechanics (motion and forces), thermodynamics (heat and energy), electromagnetism (electric and magnetic phenomena), and quantum physics (behaviour of matter and energy on atomic and subatomic scales).
- It explores the laws governing physical phenomena and the interactions between matter and energy, providing the foundation for much of modern science and technology.
Physics Definition
Standard Definition of Physics:
"Physics is a basic discipline in the category of natural sciences which deals with the study of the basic laws of nature and their manifestation in different natural phenomena."
~ NCERT (India's National Council of Educational Research and Training)
( It is an autonomous body under the Government of India that guides school education, develops curricula, and promotes educational research and training.)
Other Definitions : Here are definitions from different scientists, each offering a unique view of physics, focusing on the laws of nature, the behavior of matter and energy, and the fundamental principles governing the universe:
"Physics is the science of measuring and describing the natural world through mathematical laws, particularly those involving motion and forces."
~ Isaac Newton (1643–1727)
(English physicist and mathematician)
"Physics is an attempt to understand the basic laws of nature through observation, theory, and logical deduction, particularly emphasizing space, time, and energy."
~Albert Einstein (1879–1955)
(German-born theoretical physicist)
"Physics seeks to explain how physical phenomena can be unified under fundamental principles, such as in electromagnetism and energy transfer."
~James Clerk Maxwell (1831–1879)
(Scottish physicist and mathematician)
This guide covers key topics in physics, from foundational concepts to advanced areas like mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum physics. It explores how physics helps us understand the fundamental laws governing matter, energy, and the forces of nature.
Topics such as motion, energy transfer, forces, and the behavior of light and matter are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, specialized areas like relativity and particle physics are explored. Quizzes are included throughout to test your understanding and deepen your knowledge of the physical world.
Physics Fundamentals
Let’s begin with the fundamentals of physics, where you explore the core principles that govern the universe — from subatomic particles to galaxies. This section covers basic concepts of matter and energy, key branches of physics, standard systems of measurement, and the role of physics in everyday life.
Atoms & Nuclei
This field focuses on the tiny building blocks of matter, called atoms. It looks at how atoms are made up of a central nucleus (with protons and neutrons) and electrons that orbit around it. The study of nuclei explores how atoms interact, release energy, and change through processes like radioactivity and nuclear reactions. This reveals the forces that shape everything around us.
Properties of Matter
This field focuses on the different characteristics that define matter, such as its ability to stretch, compress, flow, and change under various forces. It looks at how materials respond to stress and strain, how fluids exert pressure, and how forces like surface tension and viscosity affect their behavior. The study of these properties helps explain the way solids, liquids, and gases behave in different environments, revealing the fundamental forces and interactions that shape the physical world around us.
Kinematics
Kinematics studies the motion of objects, focusing on their position, speed, velocity, and acceleration over time. It describes how objects move using concepts like displacement and time, without considering the forces behind the motion. This helps predict how objects move in different situations.
Laws of Motion
The Laws of Motion, formulated by Sir Isaac Newton, are fundamental principles that explain how objects move and interact with forces. These laws describe the relationship between an object’s motion and the forces acting on it, providing the foundation for classical mechanics. They allow us to predict the behavior of objects in motion, from simple everyday situations to complex systems in the universe.
Work, Energy & Power
Work, energy, and power describe how objects move and interact. Work is done when a force moves an object over a distance. Energy is the ability to do work and comes in forms like kinetic, potential, and thermal energy. Power measures the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred. These concepts explain how energy flows and transforms in physical systems and natural processes.
Heat
Heat is a form of energy that flows between two systems or bodies due to a temperature difference. It always flows from the hotter object (higher temperature) to the cooler object (lower temperature).
Gravitation
Gravitation is a fundamental force of nature that causes objects with mass to attract each other. It is most noticeable as the force that pulls objects towards the Earth, giving them weight and causing them to fall. This force not only governs the motion of objects on Earth but also influences the movement of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies in space.
Rotational Motion & Particles System
Rotational motion refers to the movement of an object around a central axis, involving concepts like angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration and the system of particles is a group of interacting particles, and their collective motion can be studied as a whole. This study helps explain the behavior of rigid bodies, moment of inertia, and angular momentum in various physical situations.
Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of heat, work, and energy transformations. It focuses on how energy is transferred within systems and how it can be transformed from one form to another. It provides a framework for the principles of energy conservation, the direction of natural processes, and the limits of efficiency in mechanical and biological systems.
Oscillations
Oscillations are repetitive variations of a physical quantity, such as displacement, velocity, or current, around a central equilibrium position. These motions, seen in both mechanical and electrical systems, are driven by restoring forces that act to return the system to its equilibrium state.
Electrostatics
Electrostatics is the branch of physics that studies stationary electric charges and the forces they exert on each other. It focuses on the behavior of charges at rest, the electric fields they generate, and the effects of these fields on other charges. Electrostatics plays a key role in everyday phenomena and technologies, such as capacitors, the behavior of charged particles in materials, and electrostatic interactions.
Did You Know?
- Electrostatic forces work even in a vacuum so, no medium is needed for charges to attract or repel each other.
- Static electricity can ignite fuel vapors , so grounding is critical when refueling aircraft or tankers.
Current Electricity
Current electricity refers to the flow of electric charge in a conductor, typically through a wire, driven by a potential difference (voltage) applied across the conductor. The flow of charged particles (usually electrons) creates an electric current, which is measured in amperes (A). Current electricity is the foundation of electrical circuits, devices, and power systems in our everyday lives.
Magnetism
Magnetism is a force produced by moving electric charges, resulting in magnetic fields that cause attraction or repulsion between objects. It’s closely related to electricity and forms the basis of electromagnetism.
Electromagnetic Induction
Electromagnetic induction is the process where a changing magnetic field generates an electric current in a conductor. Discovered by Michael Faraday, this principle is foundational to technologies like electric generators, transformers, and wireless charging. When a conductor moves through a magnetic field or when the magnetic field changes, it induces an electromotive force (EMF), driving an electric current. Electromagnetic induction plays a important role in energy generation, transmission, and various modern devices.
Ray Optics and Wave Optics
Ray optics and Wave optics are two fundamental branches of optics that describe the behavior of light. Ray optics treats light as rays traveling in straight lines, focusing on phenomena like reflection and refraction. Wave optics, on the other hand, treats light as a wave, explaining phenomena like diffraction and the rainbow effect.
Quantum Mechanics
The dual nature of radiation and matter is a concept in quantum mechanics stating that both light and matter exhibit properties of both particles and waves. Light behaves as particles (photons) in phenomena like the photoelectric effect, while matter, such as electrons, shows wave-like behavior in experiments like electron diffraction.
Semiconductor Electronics
Semiconductor electronics is the study and use of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide, in electronic devices. Semiconductors have electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators. Their conductivity can be controlled by doping, which creates n-type (negative) and p-type (positive) semiconductors. These materials are the foundation of modern electronic devices like diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits, and other technologies.
Communication Systems
Communication systems are technologies that enable the transmission and reception of information over distances. They consist of a transmitter to send signals, a medium (such as air, cables, or optical fibers) to carry them, and a receiver to decode the signals. These systems can be analog or digital and are important in fields like telecommunications, broadcasting, and the internet, facilitating global communication for voice, data, and video.
Facts about Physics
Some important facts of physics are:
- Facts About Energy
- Facts About Light
- Facts About Atoms
- Facts About Gravity
CBSE Physics (Class 8 - Class 12th)
Quick notes are a great way for students to revise the entire syllabus quickly. CBSE physics notes offer a concise summary of each chapter, highlighting key points that cover all concepts from the NCERT syllabus. These notes are designed to help students prepare efficiently for exams. Following are the links to the CBSE physics notes from Class 8 to Class 12:
Physics Syllabus ( Class 11th-Class 12th)
Here you can check out the detailed Physics syllabus for Class 11th and 12th, covering key topics that form the foundation for advanced studies:
NCERT Physics (Class 11th - Class 12th)
Important physics questions for CBSE classes 11–12 are available here. Our subject matter experts and educators have crafted these questions based on the NCERT curriculum and syllabus. By working through these questions, students can improve their understanding and perform well in their board exams. Following are the links to the NCERT solutions for Class 11 and Class 12 physics:
Here’s a list of key physics formulas that represent fundamental concepts in the field:
✤ List of Physics Formulas
Branches of Physics
This section lists important topics crucial for both board exams and competitive exams (like JEE/NEET), covering major physics branches such as Mechanics, Optics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, and Geophysics.
1. Mechanics
Mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the motion of objects and the forces that cause or affect this motion. It includes statics (objects at rest), dynamics (objects in motion), and kinematics (describing motion without considering forces). Mechanics is fundamental to classical physics and is widely applied in fields like engineering, astronomy, and daily life.
2. Optics
Optics is the branch of physics that studies light and its interactions with matter. It focuses on phenomena such as reflection, refraction, diffraction, and dispersion. The field includes geometrical optics (light as rays) and physical optics (light as waves). Optics is essential in technologies like lenses, microscopes, lasers, and fiber optics.
3. Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is the branch of Physics in which we study about interaction between heat, work, temperature, and energy. Thermodynamics broadly refers to the process of moving energy from one location or form to another. Thermodynamics is essential in the design of engines, refrigerators, and various natural processes.
4. Electromagnetism
Electromagnetism is the study of electric and magnetic fields and their interactions. It explains how electric currents generate magnetic fields and how changing magnetic fields induce electric currents. This fundamental force underlies technologies like motors, generators, and wireless communication.
5. Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Atomic physics studies the structure of atoms, focusing on electron behavior and interactions with electromagnetic radiation. Nuclear physics explores atomic nuclei, nuclear reactions, and radioactivity. Together, they are important for applications in energy, and particle physics.
6. Geophysics
Geophysics is the study of the physical properties and processes of the Earth and its surroundings. It involves using principles of physics to explore things like the Earth's structure, composition, and the forces at work beneath the surface, as well as how these processes impact the environment and human life
Why is Physics Important ?
The study of physics has played a important role in advancing human knowledge and technology. Through exploration of fundamental physical principles, we've made significant progress across various fields:
- Improves Technology: Physics has led to the development of technologies like semiconductors, lasers, and computer systems, which are foundational to modern electronics and communication.
- Advances Energy Solutions: Physics drives innovations in energy production, from nuclear power to renewable sources like solar and wind, helping address the world's energy needs.
- Enhances Medical Care: Physics has contributed to medical imaging technologies (e.g. X-rays, MRI) and radiation therapy, improving diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
- Boosts Space Exploration: Physics enables the development of spacecraft, satellite technology, and space exploration missions, expanding our knowledge of the universe.
- Facilitates Environmental Protection: Physics principles are applied in climate modeling, environmental monitoring, and developing cleaner technologies, aiding in the fight against climate change.
- Drives Innovation in Engineering: Physics provides the foundation for engineering advancements, from building materials to transportation systems, improving infrastructure and daily life.
Career & Jobs in Physics
Physics offers diverse career opportunities in research, technology, engineering, healthcare, and education, with roles ranging from quantum computing to medical physics and environmental science.
- Data Scientists
- Nuclear Physicist
- Meteorologist
- Materials Scientist
- Astrophysicist
- Accelerator Operator
| Degree | Career | Avg Salary (Per Annum) |
|---|
BSC ( Physics) | - Research Assistant
- Lab Technician
- Teaching Assistant
- Technical Support Specialist
- Quality Control Analyst
| - INR-₹3,00,000 - ₹5,00,000
- USD-$4,000 - $6,000
|
|---|
MSc (Physics) | - INR-₹5,00,000 - ₹8,00,000
- USD-$6,500 - $10,500
|
|---|
MSc (Specialized Fields) | - Theoretical Physicist
- Computational Physicist
- Applied Physicist
- Biophysicist
- Nanotechnology Researcher
- Plasma Physicist
- Condensed Matter Physicist
| - INR-₹8,00,000 - ₹12,00,000
- USD-$10,500 - $15,500
|
|---|
PhD (Physics) | - Senior Research Scientist
- University Professor
- Physicist in Government Research Labs
- R&D Specialist
- Particle Physicist
| - INR-₹12,00,000 - ₹20,00,000
- USD-$15,500 - $26,000
|
|---|
Advanced Roles (Post-PhD) | - Quantum Computing Specialist
- Space Science Research Lead
- Senior Physicist in Nuclear Industry
- Research Director
| - INR-₹20,00,000 - ₹40,00,000
- USD-$26,000 - $55,00
|
|---|
Application of Physics
Physics is an application based subject. In each branches of Physics, there are various modern applications developed on the base of Physics. We have categorized the application of Physics based on the branch of Physics.
Summary
Physics is a branch of science that investigates the fundamental laws of matter, energy, space, and time. It seeks to explain the workings of the universe, from subatomic particles to vast cosmic structures. As the most fundamental science, physics lays the groundwork for other scientific fields, offering insights that drive technological advancements and influence the natural world. Its principles underpin many modern innovations and continue to shape our future.
Common Questions on Physics
What study is physics?
Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature.
Who is the father of physics?
Galileo Galilei, often called the "Father of Modern Physics," was a key figure in the development of physics, alongside Isaac Newton, known for his laws of motion and gravity, and Albert Einstein, renowned for his theory of relativity.
The term "physics" originates from the Greek word physikos, meaning 'nature.' While there is no official full form of "physics," it is sometimes creatively expanded as "Physicists Positive Humble Yonder Studious Inexperienced Communicative Scientific" to reflect key traits associated with the field.
What is physics class 11?
Physics is the branch of science that explores the structure of matter and the interactions between the fundamental elements of the universe.
Why is physics important?
Physics is important because it explains the fundamental laws of nature, driving technological advancements and improving our daily lives.
Suggested Quiz
10 Questions
What is the primary focus of physics as a scientific discipline?
-
The study of living organisms
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The study of matter, energy, and forces
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The study of chemical reactions
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The study of celestial bodies
In mechanics, which branch focuses on the forces acting on objects at rest?
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Kinematics
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Dynamics
-
Statics
-
Fluid Mechanics
Which law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed?
-
Zeroth Law
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First Law
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Second Law
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Third Law
What phenomenon describes the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another?
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Reflection
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Refraction
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Diffraction
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Dispersion
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of electromagnetic waves?
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They can travel through a vacuum
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They require a medium to propagate
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They travel at the speed of light
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They exhibit wave-particle duality
What is the primary cause of gravitational force between two objects?
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Their mass
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Their volume
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Their temperature
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Their density
In the context of optics, what is total internal reflection?
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Reflection of light in a prism
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Bending of light at a boundary
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Reflection that occurs when light hits a boundary at a steep angle
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The complete reflection of light within a denser medium
Which of the following best describes the concept of work in physics?
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The force applied over a distance
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The energy stored in an object
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The rate of energy transfer
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The mass of an object in motion
What does the term "kinetic energy" refer to?
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Energy stored in an object
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Energy of motion
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Energy transferred through heat
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Energy associated with chemical reactions
Which principle states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction?
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Stress and Strain are the two terms in Physics that describe the forces causing the deformation of objects. Deformation is known as the change of the shape of an object by applications of force. The object experiences it due to external forces; for example, the forces might be like squeezing, squash
12 min read
Stress-Strain Curve
Stress-Strain Curve is a very crucial concept in the study of material science and engineering. It describes the relationship between stress and the strain applied on an object. We know that stress is the applied force on the material, and strain, is the resulting change (deformation or elongation)
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Elasticity and Plasticity
You've undoubtedly heard of the idea of elasticity by now. In layman's words, it indicates that after being stretched, some substances return to their former form. You've experimented with a slingshot. Didn't you? That is an elastic substance. Let us go into the ideas of elasticity and plasticity to
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Modulus of Elasticity
Modulus of Elasticity or Elastic Modulus is the measurement of resistance offered by a material against the deformation force acting on it. Modulus of Elasticity is also called Young's Modulus. It is given as the ratio of Stress to Strain. The unit of elastic modulus is megapascal or gigapascal Modu
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Modulus of Rigidity
Modulus of rigidity also known as shear modulus, is used to measure the rigidity of a given body. It is the ratio of shear stress to shear strain and is denoted by G or sometimes by S or μ. The modulus of rigidity of a material is directly proportional to its elastic modulus which depends on the mat
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Young's Modulus
Young's Modulus is the ratio of stress and strain. It is named after the famous British physicist Thomas Young. Young's Modulus provides a relation between stress and strain in any object. Â When a certain load is added to a rigid material, it deforms. When the weight is withdrawn from an elastic mat
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Bulk Modulus Formula
For every material, the bulk modulus is defined as the proportion of volumetric stress to volumetric strain. The bulk modulus, in simpler terms, is a numerical constant that is used to quantify and explain the elastic characteristics of a solid or fluid when pressure is applied. We'll go over the bu
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Shear Modulus and Bulk Modulus
A rigid body model is an idealised representation of an item that does not deform when subjected to external forces. It is extremely beneficial for evaluating mechanical systems—and many physical items are quite stiff. The degree to which an item may be regarded as stiff is determined by the physica
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Poisson's Ratio
Poisson's Ratio is the negative ratio of transversal strain or lateral strain to the longitudinal strain of a material under stress. When a material particularly a rubber-like material undergoes stress the deformation is not limited to only one direction, rather it happens along both transversal and
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Stress, Strain and Elastic Potential Energy
Elasticity, this term always reminds of objects like Rubber bands, etc. However, if the question arises, which one is more elastic- A rubber or an Iron piece? The answer will be an Iron piece. Why? The answer lies in the definition of Elasticity, elasticity is known to be the ability of the object t
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Thermodynamics
Basics Concepts of Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is concerned with the ideas of heat and temperature, as well as the exchange of heat and other forms of energy. The branch of science that is known as thermodynamics is related to the study of various kinds of energy and its interconversion. The behaviour of these quantities is govern
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Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics
Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics states that when two bodies are in thermal equilibrium with another third body than the two bodies are also in thermal equilibrium with each other. Ralph H. Fowler developed this law in the 1930s, many years after the first, second, and third laws of thermodynamics had a
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First Law of Thermodynamics
First Law of Thermodynamics adaptation of the Law of Conservation of Energy differentiates between three types of energy transfer: Heat, Thermodynamic Work, and Energy associated with matter transfer. It also relates each type of energy transfer to a property of a body's Internal Energy. The First L
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Second Law of Thermodynamics
Second Law of Thermodynamics defines that heat cannot move from a reservoir of lower temperature to a reservoir of higher temperature in a cyclic process. The second law of thermodynamics deals with transferring heat naturally from a hotter body to a colder body. Second Law of Thermodynamics is one
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Thermodynamic Cycles
Thermodynamic cycles are used to explain how heat engines, which convert heat into work, operate. A thermodynamic cycle is used to accomplish this. The application determines the kind of cycle that is employed in the engine. The thermodynamic cycle consists of a series of interrelated thermodynamic
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Thermodynamic State Variables and Equation of State
The branch of thermodynamics deals with the process of heat exchange by the gas or the temperature of the system of the gas. This branch also deals with the flow of heat from one part of the system to another part of the system. For systems that are present in the real world, there are some paramete
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Enthalpy: Definition, Formula and Reactions
Enthalpy is the measurement of heat or energy in the thermodynamic system. It is the most fundamental concept in the branch of thermodynamics. It is denoted by the symbol H. In other words, we can say, Enthalpy is the total heat of the system. Let's know more about Enthalpy in detail below.Enthalpy
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State Functions
State Functions are the functions that are independent of the path of the function i.e. they are concerned about the final state and not how the state is achieved. State Functions are most used in thermodynamics. In this article, we will learn the definition of state function, what are the state fun
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Carnot Engine
A Carnot motor is a hypothetical motor that works on the Carnot cycle. Nicolas Leonard Sadi Carnot fostered the fundamental model for this motor in 1824. In this unmistakable article, you will find out about the Carnot cycle and Carnot Theorem exhaustively. The Carnot motor is a hypothetical thermod
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Heat Engine - Definition, Working, PV Diagram, Efficiency, Types
Heat engines are devices that turn heat energy into motion or mechanical work. Heat engines are based on the principles of thermodynamics, specifically the conversion of heat into work according to the first and second laws of thermodynamics. They are found everywhere, from our cars, power plants to
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Wave and Oscillation
Introduction to Waves - Definition, Types, Properties
A wave is a propagating dynamic disturbance (change from equilibrium) of one or more quantities in physics, mathematics, and related subjects, commonly described by a wave equation. At least two field quantities in the wave medium are involved in physical waves. Periodic waves occur when variables o
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Wave Motion
Wave Motion refers to the transfer of energy and momentum from one point to another in a medium without actually transporting matter between the two points. Wave motion is a kind of disturbance from place to place. Wave can travel in solid medium, liquid medium, gas medium, and in a vacuum. Sound wa
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Oscillation
Oscillations are defined as the process of repeating vibrations of any quantity about its equilibrium position. The word “oscillation†originates from the Latin verb, which means to swing. An object oscillates whenever a force pushes or pulls it back toward its central point after displacement. This
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Oscillatory Motion Formula
Oscillatory Motion is a form of motion in which an item travels over a spot repeatedly. The optimum situation can be attained in a total vacuum since there will be no air to halt the item in oscillatory motion friction. Let's look at a pendulum as shown below. The vibrating of strings and the moveme
3 min read
Amplitude Formula
The largest deviation of a variable from its mean value is referred to as amplitude. It is the largest displacement from a particle's mean location in to and fro motion around a mean position. Periodic pressure variations, periodic current or voltage variations, periodic variations in electric or ma
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What is Frequency?
Frequency is the rate at which the repetitive event that occurs over a specific period. Frequency shows the oscillations of waves, operation of electrical circuits and the recognition of sound. The frequency is the basic concept for different fields from physics and engineering to music and many mor
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Amplitude, Time Period and Frequency of a Vibration
Sound is a form of energy generated by vibrating bodies. Its spread necessitates the use of a medium. As a result, sound cannot travel in a vacuum because there is no material to transfer sound waves. Sound vibration is the back and forth motion of an entity that causes the sound to be made. That is
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Energy of a Wave Formula
Wave energy, often referred to as the energy carried by waves, encompasses both the kinetic energy of their motion and the potential energy stored within their amplitude or frequency. This energy is not only essential for natural processes like ocean currents and seismic waves but also holds signifi
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Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple Harmonic Motion is a fundament concept in the study of motion, especially oscillatory motion; which helps us understand many physical phenomena around like how strings produce pleasing sounds in a musical instrument such as the sitar, guitar, violin, etc., and also, how vibrations in the memb
15+ min read
Displacement in Simple Harmonic Motion
The Oscillatory Motion has a big part to play in the world of Physics. Oscillatory motions are said to be harmonic if the displacement of the oscillatory body can be expressed as a function of sine or cosine of an angle depending upon time. In Harmonic Oscillations, the limits of oscillations on eit
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Sound
Production and Propagation of Sound
Have you ever wonder how are we able to hear different sounds produced around us. How are these sounds produced? Or how a single instrument can produce a wide variety of sounds? Also, why do astronauts communicate in sign languages in outer space? A sound is a form of energy that helps in hearing to
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What are the Characteristics of Sound Waves?
Sound is nothing but the vibrations (a form of energy) that propagates in the form of waves through a certain medium. Different types of medium affect the properties of the wave differently. Does this mean that Sound will not travel if the medium does not exist? Correct. It will not, It is impossibl
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Speed of Sound
Speed of Sound as the name suggests is the speed of the sound in any medium. We know that sound is a form of energy that is caused due to the vibration of the particles and sound travels in the form of waves. A wave is a vibratory disturbance that transfers energy from one point to another point wit
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Reflection of Sound
Reflection of Sound is the phenomenon of striking of sound with a barrier and bouncing back in the same medium. It is the most common phenomenon observed by us in our daily life. Let's take an example, suppose we are sitting in an empty hall and talking to a person we hear an echo sound which is cre
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Refraction of Sound
A sound is a vibration that travels as a mechanical wave across a medium. It can spread via a solid, a liquid, or a gas as the medium. In solids, sound travels the quickest, comparatively more slowly in liquids, and the slowest in gases. A sound wave is a pattern of disturbance caused by energy trav
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How do we hear?
Sound is produced from a vibrating object or the organ in the form of vibrations which is called propagation of sound and these vibrations have to be recognized by the brain to interpret the meaning which is possible only in the presence of a multi-functioning organ that is the ear which plays a hug
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Audible and Inaudible Sounds
We hear sound whenever we talk, listen to some music, or play any musical instrument, etc. But did you ever wondered what is that sound and how is it produced? Or why do we hear to our own voice when we shout in a big empty room loudly? What are the ranges of sound that we can hear? In this article,
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Explain the Working and Application of SONAR
Sound energy is the type of energy that allows our ears to sense something. When a body vibrates or moves in a ‘to-and-fro' motion, a sound is made. Sound needs a medium to flow through in order to propagate. This medium could be in the form of a gas, a liquid, or a solid. Sound propagates through a
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Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is the pollution caused by sound which results in various problems for Humans. A sound is a form of energy that enables us to hear. We hear the sound from the frequency range of 20 to 20000 Hertz (20kHz). Humans have a fixed range for which comfortably hear a sound if we are exposed
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Doppler Effect - Definition, Formula, Examples
Doppler Effect is an important phenomenon when it comes to waves. This phenomenon has applications in a lot of fields of science. From nature's physical process to planetary motion, this effect comes into play wherever there are waves and the objects are traveling with respect to the wave. In the re
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Doppler Shift Formula
When it comes to sound propagation, the Doppler Shift is the shift in pitch of a source as it travels. The frequency seems to grow as the source approaches the listener and decreases as the origin fades away from the ear. When the source is going toward the listener, its velocity is positive; when i
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Electrostatics
Electrostatics
Electrostatics is the study of electric charges that are fixed. It includes an study of the forces that exist between charges as defined by Coulomb's Law. The following concepts are involved in electrostatics: Electric charge, electric field, and electrostatic force.Electrostatic forces are non cont
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Electric Charge
Electric Charge is the basic property of a matter that causes the matter to experience a force when placed in a electromagnetic field. It is the amount of electric energy that is used for various purposes. Electric charges are categorized into two types, that are, Positive ChargeNegative ChargePosit
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Coulomb's Law
Coulomb’s Law is defined as a mathematical concept that defines the electric force between charged objects. Columb's Law states that the force between any two charged particles is directly proportional to the product of the charge but is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between t
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Electric Dipole
An electric dipole is defined as a pair of equal and opposite electric charges that are separated, by a small distance. An example of an electric dipole includes two atoms separated by small distances. The magnitude of the electric dipole is obtained by taking the product of either of the charge and
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Dipole Moment
Two small charges (equal and opposite in nature) when placed at small distances behave as a system and are called as Electric Dipole. Now, electric dipole movement is defined as the product of either charge with the distance between them. Electric dipole movement is helpful in determining the symmet
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Electrostatic Potential
Electrostatic potential refers to the amount of electrical potential energy present at a specific point in space due to the presence of electric charges. It represents how much work would be done to move a unit of positive charge from infinity to that point without causing any acceleration. The unit
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Electric Potential Energy
Electrical potential energy is the cumulative effect of the position and configuration of a charged object and its neighboring charges. The electric potential energy of a charged object governs its motion in the local electric field.Sometimes electrical potential energy is confused with electric pot
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Potential due to an Electric Dipole
The potential due to an electric dipole at a point in space is the electric potential energy per unit charge that a test charge would experience at that point due to the dipole. An electric potential is the amount of work needed to move a unit of positive charge from a reference point to a specific
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Equipotential Surfaces
When an external force acts to do work, moving a body from a point to another against a force like spring force or gravitational force, that work gets collected or stores as the potential energy of the body. When the external force is excluded, the body moves, gaining the kinetic energy and losing a
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Capacitor and Capacitance
Capacitor and Capacitance are related to each other as capacitance is nothing but the ability to store the charge of the capacitor. Capacitors are essential components in electronic circuits that store electrical energy in the form of an electric charge. They are widely used in various applications,
11 min read