Physics is a natural science that involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts such as energy and force. It seeks to understand the fundamental principles of the universe, from the very smallest particles to the vast expanses of the cosmos.
Physics is divided into several different branches, including:
- Classical Physics: Deals with the laws of forces and motion, as explained by Isaac Newton. This includes mechanics, thermodynamics, acoustics, optics, etc.
- Quantum Physics: This branch studies the behaviors of atomic and subatomic particles, where classical physics is no longer sufficient to explain the phenomena.
- Relativity: Developed by Albert Einstein, this branch involves the study of phenomena in high-speed and high-gravity environments where space and time are interrelated.
- Statistical Mechanics: This field analyzes the behavior of a large number of particles to predict their collective behavior.
- Astrophysics: This is the application of physics to understand astronomical phenomena and the behavior of celestial bodies.
- Condensed Matter Physics: This branch looks at the physical properties of matter in its condensed phases, like solids and liquids.
- Particle Physics: This branch involves the study of the fundamental particles of the universe, such as quarks, leptons, and bosons.
- Biophysics: The application of physics principles to understand biological systems.
- Many more specialized fields, such as plasma physics, nuclear physics, and quantum field theory.
Physics plays a crucial role in all the natural sciences and has numerous technological applications, including in engineering, medicine, and computer science.
Physics Scholarships
Numerous scholarships are available for students pursuing a degree in Physics. Here are a few examples as of my last training cut-off in September 2021. Note that availability and conditions may have changed, so you'll need to check the current status.
- The HSF Scholarship: The Hispanic Scholarship Fund offers scholarships for Hispanic students majoring in a STEM field, such as physics. The amount of the scholarship ranges from $500 to $5,000 based on relative need.
- The Barry Goldwater Scholarship: This scholarship is available to sophomores and juniors who are planning a research career in mathematics, natural sciences, or engineering. The maximum annual amount is $7,500.
- The APS/IBM Research Internship for Undergraduate Women and Underrepresented Minorities: The American Physical Society (APS) and IBM co-sponsor a research internship program for undergraduate women and underrepresented minorities. In addition to gaining research experience, awardees also receive a stipend.
- The Society of Physics Students Scholarships: The Society of Physics Students offers several scholarships for undergraduate physics students. The award amounts vary.
- The National Space Club Keynote Scholarships: Available to high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students who have the intention to pursue a career in the STEM fields.
- SMART Scholarship Program: The Science, Mathematics, And Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program is an opportunity for students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines to receive a full scholarship and be gainfully employed by the Department of Defense upon degree completion.
- The American Astronomical Society's FAMOUS Travel Grants: The FAMOUS (Funds for Astronomical Meetings: Outreach to Underrepresented Scientists) program provides small grants to help undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, and early-career professionals in astronomy attend meetings, workshops, and conferences.
Always verify the current status, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application procedures directly from the organization or through the relevant department in your university. Also, consider looking at the financial aid department or academic advisors at your institution, as they may have additional resources or localized scholarships.
