Introduction to Physics Concepts

Physics

• Physics studies matter, motion, behaviour through space and time, and concepts like energy and force.
• Branches include classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics (relativity, quantum mechanics).
• Classical mechanics uses Newton's laws and energy conservation for macroscopic objects.
• Thermodynamics relates heat, work, and other energy forms.
• Electromagnetism describes electric and magnetic interactions.
• Optics studies light behaviour (reflection, refraction, diffraction).
• Modern physics explores atomic and subatomic phenomena (quantum mechanics, relativity).
• Fundamental forces are gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear forces.
• Key concepts include motion, force, energy, momentum, and angular momentum.
• Mathematics is crucial for describing and analyzing physical phenomena.

Chemistry

• Chemistry investigates matter's composition, properties, and reactions.
• It examines atoms, molecules, and their interactions.
• Key branches are organic (carbon compounds), inorganic (non-carbon), physical (chemical processes), analytical (identifying matter), and biochemistry (biological processes).
• Atoms, molecules, ions and their properties are vital.
• Chemical bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic) explains how atoms link.
• Chemical reactions involve changes in substance composition through bond breaking/forming.
• Stoichiometry measures reactants and products in reactions.
• Acids, bases, and salts affect reactions and pH.
• Solutions (homogenous mixtures) are important.
• Chemical kinetics studies reaction rates, and equilibrium describes final states.

Biology

• Biology studies life and living organisms.
• Topics include cell structure/function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and life diversity.
• Cell biology analyses the fundamentals of the cell.
• Molecular biology studies biological molecules.
• Genetics investigates heredity and variation.
• Evolutionary biology explores life's development and diversity.
• Ecology studies organism-environment interactions.
• Physiology examines physical/chemical processes within organisms.
• Organismal biology examines individual organism structure/function.
• Life diversity encompasses prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and many species.
• Key biological processes involve metabolism, reproduction, development, and adaptation.
• The scientific method is used in biological research.