Essential Question: What is physics? Lesson 1.1 What is Physics? Essential Question: What is physics?

What happens to ice cream that is left out on the kitchen counter? Why do you slip when you try to climb a snow bank? What happens to the front of your car if you rear end the car in front of you?

What is physics? The study of the physical world, from motion and energy to light and electricity.

What is the goal of physics? Everything around you can be described using the tools of physics. The goal is to use a small number of basic concepts, equations, and assumptions to describe the physical world.

How would you use physics to build a car?

Thermodynamics Efficient engines, use of coolants Vibrations and mechanical waves Shock absorbers, radio speakers Electromagnetism Battery, starter, headlights Mechanics Spinning motion of the wheels, tires that provide enough friction for traction Optics Headlights, rearview mirrors

Physics surrounds us! Size Temperature Motion Shape Color Position

Areas within Physics Name Subjects Examples Mechanics Motion and its causes, interactions between objects Falling objects, friction, weight, spinning objects Thermodynamics Heat and temperature Melting and freezing processes, engines, refrigerators Vibrations and wave phenomena Specific types of repetitive motions Springs, pendulums, sound Optics Light Mirrors, lenses, color, astronomy Electromagnetism Electricity, magnetism, and light Electrical charge, circuitry, permanent magnets, electromagnets Relativity Particles moving at any speed, including very high speeds Particle collisions, particle accelerators, nuclear energy Quantum mechanics Behavior of submicroscopic particles The atom and its parts Areas within Physics

How do scientists study ideas in physics? The scientific method is used to discover general laws that can be used to make predictions about a variety of situations.

What is the scientific method? State conclusions in a form that can be evaluated by others. Interpret results, and revise the hypothesis if necessary. Formulate and objectively test hypotheses by experiments. Make observations and collect data that lead to a question.

Physics uses models that describe phenomena. A model is a pattern, plan, representation, or description designed to show the structure or workings of an object, system or concept. Many models used in physics are mathematical models.

How should I develop a model? Decide which parts are relevant to keep and which parts can be disregarded You’ll decide what to study and define the system. Summarize with a diagram

What is a system? A set of particles or interacting components considered to be a distinct physical entity for the purpose of study This is usually a single object and the items that immediately affect it.

Why should I use a model? It simplifies the situation and makes it less complex to study. It can help build hypotheses. It can help guide experimental design. Models help make predictions in new situations.

What is a hypothesis? An explanation that is based on prior scientific research or observations and that can be tested Any hypothesis must be tested in a controlled experiment, an experiment that tests only one factor at a time by using a comparison of a control group with an experimental group.

What is physics?