Importance of Physics

Physics is all around us. It is present in the minute world of the atom and in the vast universe. There is physics in our everyday life. From the moment you arise to the time you go to sleep, your activities involve physics. When you cook your food, iron your clothes, wash the dishes, listen to the radio, or answer a telephone call, you make use of the principles of physics. There is physics in moving objects, running automobiles and trains, flying kites and airplanes, zooming jet planes, and orbiting satellites. Physics is applied in the construction of roads, bridges, houses, buildings, boats, and ships. Knowing the principles of physics enables us to comprehend, appreciate, and interact better with our environment. The occurrence of lightning and thunder or a rainbow in the sky can be explained by the principles and laws of physics. We can understand why rain falls, why there is night and day, and why there is low tide and high tide. Physics makes our lives more comfortable and enjoyable. The modern facilities in our homes such as refrigerators, washing machines, and floor polishers make our work easier. Modern means of transportation, systems of communication, and advancement in medicine, agriculture, and industry are brought about by the application of the principles of physics.

Steps in Scientific Method

Identify or define the problem The problem should be clear, specific, measurable, and attainable. This is usually started as a question which may start with how, why and what. Gather information relevant to the problem. Formulate hypothesis A hypothesis is an intelligent or educated guess, a tentative solution or answer to the problem. It is subject to change depending on the result of the experiment. If the test fails to support the hypothesis, it is considered null and untrue.

Test the hypothesis

In testing the hypothesis, gather as much information as possible and perform experiments to test their validity. The factors whose effects are being tested are called variables. The variables which are kept the same in an experiment are called constant or controlled while the one which is varied is called manipulated. Only one factor must be varied at a time while keeping all other factors constant.

Make a conclusion
After the data has been clearly analyzed and interpreted, a conclusion can be made. This is done when the analyses support the hypothesis. A conclusion is the final answer to a problem.

Verify the conclusion

Repeat the experiment using the same procedure. Check if it coincides with previous results. If it does, the conclusion is valid.

Make a generalization
Summarize all information.