April 24 : National Physics Day & Aristotle

On National Physics Day (USA), we remember Aristotle, the Father of Physics. Although most of his original theories have since been proven wrong, Aristotle started the new science and laid out the first principles of Physics in history, known as Aristotelian Physics.

Physics is a branch of science that deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. The history of physics dates back to ancient times, with Aristotle being the first to develop a systematic approach to the subject. Aristotle’s work on physics is contained in a collection of manuscripts known as the Corpus Aristotelicum. His approach to physics was based on principles, causes, and elements. He identified three principles: substances, opposites, and privation. Aristotle’s work was groundbreaking in that it was the first attempt to explain natural phenomena in a systematic and logical manner.

Aristotle’s work on physics was influential in the development of the field. His ideas on motion, force, and causality were the basis for much of the work done by later physicists. His work on the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water) was also influential in the development of chemistry.

The study of physics continued to evolve over the centuries. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the work of Galileo Galilei and Sir Isaac Newton revolutionized the field. Galileo’s work on motion and the laws of mechanics laid the foundation for Newton’s work on gravity and the laws of motion. Newton’s work was instrumental in the development of modern physics.

In the 20th century, the field of physics underwent a revolution with the development of quantum mechanics and relativity theory. Quantum mechanics deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level . Relativity theory deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the cosmic level . These two fields have had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe.

Below are some books about Physics and Science that you will find easy to read to learn about the subject. Then scroll further down to watch a crash course.