Physics/wip/leadproposal3

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[edit] Lead proposal 3

Physics is the branch of science whose goal is to understand nature in terms of simple and universal truths. Physicists create theories to describe the underlying laws of nature in a predictive way, and state their theories in the language of mathematics to make them succinct and precise. Traditionally, physics has proceeded by understanding the smallest and simplest components of matter and the interactions between them, and involves ideas such as energy, forces, space, and time. The foundation of physics, like the other sciences, is the scientific method; experimental observation is the ultimate test of any physical theory.

Classical physics traditionally included the fields of mechanics, optics, electricity, magnetism, acoustics and heat. The more recent fields of general and special relativity have also usually been placed within this category. Modern physics is a term normally used to cover fields which rely on quantum theory, including quantum mechanics, atomic physics, nuclear physics, particle physics and condensed matter physics. Although this distinction can be commonly found in older writings, it is of limited current significance as quantum effects are now understood to be of importance even in fields previously considered purely classical.

Physics research is divided into two main branches: experimental physics and theoretical physics. Experimental physics focuses mainly on empirical research, and on the development and testing of theories against practical experiment. Theoretical physics is more closely related to mathematics, and involves generating and working through the mathematical implications of systems of physical theories, even where experimental evidence of their validity may not be immediately available.

—BryanD 23:50, 3 December 2006 (UTC)

• Last two paragraphs from Proposal 1