Physics: The Way Things Work

<BODY BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF"> <CENTER> <img src="media/images/home/logomotion.gif" width=480 height=175 border="0" alt="Physics online logo"><br><img src="media/images/home/motto.gif" width="278" height="43" alt="The Way Things Work"> </CENTER> <P> <B>Introduction</B> <P> Physics is the study of nature in its simplest form. Limited abilities and limited time force all scientists to narrow the scope of their understanding of nature in some way. Thus a biologist may concentrate primarily on whole organisms, or on cells, or on molecular genetics. A geologist may study crustal movements, or concentrate on crystal formation in a particular rock type. Underlying both biology and geology is chemistry which helps to clarify how and why molecular structures change. Even more basic than chemistry, however, is physics. The physicist studies conditions of far less complexity than does the biologist, geologist, or chemist. In doing this, he/she can investigate the most fundamental forces in nature, which, presumably, are at the root of all the complex sciences. <P> By working at the very edge of human understanding, the physicist is not primarily explaining <I>why</I> something happens, but is describing <I>what</I> happens in as clear and comprehensive a way as possible. This is why some knowledge of physics is so essential to anyone who plans advanced study in one of the sciences or in engineering. <P> As it is our deepest and best understanding of nature, physics should be part of the studies of <I>any</I> well educated person. It has become fashionable in recent decades to think of the sciences and humanities as separate, compartmentalized disciplines with little to offer each other. <P> The study of physics reveals a unity and deep beauty in the universe that is not obvious to the casual observer. The physics you will learn is thought to be true for all space and all time, and perhaps the only subject you'll learn that is studied throughout the galaxy and universe. As you travel throughout the site, you will begin to glimpse a new and profound reality. <P> This web site is based upon Patrick H. Canan's book <U>a beginner's guide to Classical Physics</U> (copyright 1982). Mr. Canan's text has been used within his physics classes for several years. The complete text contains 23 chapters, covering kinematics, statics, dynamics, energy, gravity, fluid statics, thermodynamics, electricity, and magnetism. This site currently <NOWRAP>contains<IMG SRC="http://www.proaxis.com/~andrej/physics/media/images/temp/chps_done.gif">of</NOWRAP> the original 23 chapters. We are committed to converting the remaining chapters to supplement those already available. Please check back often for the latest updates at our <A HREF="http://www.proaxis.com/~andrej/physics/">mirror site</A>. <P>  <CENTER> <FONT SIZE=5>Sections</FONT> </CENTER> <P> <DL> <DT><A HREF="data/lessons.html">Lessons</A> <DD>Begin your education of physics by choosing a lesson to explore. Its recommended that you read the lessons in order to ensure your understanding of the concepts that later lessons build upon. <DT><A HREF="gather/upload/upload.html">Downloads/Uploads</A> <DD>Explore physics further through these educational calculator programs. You can download programs created by others or upload your own. <DT><A HREF="data/links.html">Links</A> <DD>Find out what others are doing with physics. This list of links acts as both a resource for physics related material and a link for those who want to explore physics further. <DT><A HREF="gather/wwwboard.html">Message Board</A> <DD>Communicate with physics students around the world. Discuss things going on in the world of physics, ask a question, or simply chat. <DT><A HREF="data/ref_desk.html">Reference Desk</A> <DD>Having trouble using the site, or looking for more information. We can help. Find out what conventions are used throughout the site, skills are assumed, and explore a list of frequently asked questions. </DL> </BODY>