Fundamental Physics

We will soon be adding a new section to the Windows to the Universe web site. The new section will be a broad overview of the science of physics. We have set up a temporary page, with links to many physics topics currently scattered around our site, for you to use until the new physics section is ready.

Physics is the study of basic properties, materials, and forces in our Universe. Our new physics section will start off with some background material about space, time, and matter. It will also include sections on mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermal physics, atomic physics and particle physics, and tools for math and science (vectors, coordinate systems, units of measurement, etc.).

The new physics section will also have links to many data sources relevant to Earth and space science. The links below provide access to some of the physics-related materials currently on the site. They are organized roughly into the categories we will use in the forthcoming physics section.

Starting Points for Science

Space - Distance - Astronomical Unit (AU), Angstrom, Wavelength
Time - Year, The Seasons
Matter

Mechanics

Gravity
The Four Fundamental Forces
Orbital Mechanics
- Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion - 1st Law, 2nd Law, 3rd Law
- Elliptical Orbits - Eccentricity, Perihelion & Aphelion
- Interactive Animation illustrating Orbital Elements
Fluid Mechanics

Electricity and Magnetism

Thermal Physics

No entries here yet. The new physics section will include topics like heat, temperature, the laws of thermodynamics, conduction & convection, etc.

Atomic Physics and Particle Physics

Tools for Math and Science

No entries here yet. The new physics section will include topics like vectors, coordinate systems, units of measurement, etc.

Data

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