What is Physics?
Physics attempts to summarise phenomenon in nature according to scientific laws, for example, the laws of motion of Newton. Such laws are formulated to provide us with knowledge of the physical world. Physics, along with Chemistry and various divisions of Mathematics, form the foundation of Science and Technology. These subjects form part of from Engineering and various other applicable fields. The mission of the Physics subject group is primarily focused on training, while research in Astrophysics, Space Physics and Material Science is conducted within the Centre for Space Research (CSR) and Material Science Innovation and Modelling (MaSIM). This centre is also involved with the South African National Antarctic Centre, where research is conducted in Antarctica. Physics provides an individual with a unique approach to problem-solving, a logical scientific mindset, as well as insight and a perspective on the world we live in. These skills contribute to a physicist’s ability to adapt in careers outside of Physics. The Physics subject group has an elaborate bursary scheme aimed at training outstanding students as physicists and helping to reduce the significant shortage of natural scientists in South Africa.
Physics consists of the following subjects:
- Mechanics, Oscillations, Waves and Theory of Heat
- Physics for Biology
- Electricity, Magnetism, Optics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Optics
- Special Relativity
- Introductory Quantum Physics
- Electromagnetism
- Wave Mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Nuclear Physics and Elementary Particles
- Astro- and Space physics
- Solid-State Physics