Physics

Course summary

Physics is a fundamental science. Through the language of mathematics and conceptual models, Physics has advanced our understanding of the material world we live in. It has made possible such things as the car, the mobile phone, and the light bulb – almost everything we use and touch. It is a rigorous subject and can help develop vital skills for careers in engineering, computing, communications and many other fields. Physics is the study of how things work. It can explain the mysteries of gravity, electricity, magnetism and nuclear power. Satellite navigation, broadband communications, aerial drones and electric cars are just a few recent advances which physics has made possible. It has even enabled us to discover thousands of new planets circling around distant stars. Physics works by developing new ideas, and also by carrying out experiments. Both components are vital. Major experiments include the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva, and the drive for nuclear fusion power in France and England. These have arisen from the ideas created by a previous generation of physicists. In the future, these experiments could lead the way to clean energy with no threat of global warming or environmental damage.