Core - Physics

Chapter 1

Units, Dimensions, and Measurements

1.1 : The Scope of Physics

1.1 : The Scope of Physics

Physics is concerned with the interactions of energy, matter, space, and time, in order to discover the underlying mechanisms that underpin all phenomena. ...

1.2 : Orders of Magnitude

1.2 : Orders of Magnitude

The order of magnitude of a number is the power of 10 that most closely approximates it. Thus, the order of magnitude estimates the scale (or size) of its ...

1.3 : Models, Theories, and Laws

1.3 : Models, Theories, and Laws

Scientists frequently use models to help them comprehend a specific collection of phenomena. In physics, a model is a condensed version of a physical ...

1.4 : Units and Standards of Measurement

1.4 : Units and Standards of Measurement

A physical quantity is defined either by specifying its measurement method or by stating how it is calculated from other measurements. For example, ...

1.5 : Estimation of the Physical Quantities

1.5 : Estimation of the Physical Quantities

On many occasions, physicists, other scientists, and engineers need to make estimates of a particular quantity. These are sometimes referred to as ...

1.6 : Base Quantities and Derived Quantities

1.6 : Base Quantities and Derived Quantities

In any system of units, the units for some physical quantities must be specified through a measurement process. These measurements are the base quantities ...

1.7 : Conversion of Units

1.7 : Conversion of Units

Sometimes, there is a need to convert from one unit to another one. For instance, reading a cookbook in which quantities are expressed in units of liters ...

1.8 : Accuracy and Precision

1.8 : Accuracy and Precision

Scientists typically make repeated measurements of a quantity to ensure the quality of their findings and to evaluate both the precision and the accuracy ...

1.9 : Random and Systematic Errors

1.9 : Random and Systematic Errors

Scientists always try their best to record measurements with the utmost accuracy and precision. However, sometimes errors do occur. These errors can be ...

1.10 : Rules for Significant Figures

1.10 : Rules for Significant Figures

In any measurement, the precision of the measuring tool is an essential factor. An ordinary ruler, for example, can measure length to the closest ...

1.11 : Significant Figures in Calculations

1.11 : Significant Figures in Calculations

Uncertainty in measurements can be avoided by reporting the results of a calculation with the correct number of significant figures. This can be ...

1.12 : Dimensional Analysis

1.12 : Dimensional Analysis

The concept of dimension is important because every mathematical equation linking physical quantities must be dimensionally consistent, implying that ...

1.13 : Problem Solving: Dimensional Analysis

1.13 : Problem Solving: Dimensional Analysis

Every mathematical equation that connects separate distinct physical quantities must be dimensionally consistent, which implies it must abide by two ...

1.14 : Solving Problems in Physics

1.14 : Solving Problems in Physics

Problem-solving is the ability to apply general physical principles to specific situations, usually expressed by equations. It is an essential skill in ...

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