What are the major branches of physics?
In general, physics is the study of natural phenomena. In a practical sense, this really means physicists study energy, typically the transfer of energy. This can be represented by motion, magnetism, nuclear forces, chemistry, and biology among others. Fields of interest in today’s society overlap most major technical industries. For example, the US Department of Energy employs physicists to study nuclear power (including weapons), fossil fuels, solar energy, tidal energy, wind power, and alternative sources. Most of these studies are aimed at converting or releasing energy into something useful for meeting our power and transportation needs. Physicists also are employed in helping understand mathematical models of real events. They help develop computer codes that simulate forces that range from quantum to planetary and galactic scales. Many physicists today find themselves more and more in the theoretical side of things, rarely doing experimental work in a ‘hands-on’ sense, instead w
