PARAMOUNT SCHOOL SYSTEM
Subject: Physics – I
Unit 9: Nature of Science and Physics
EXERCISE
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
QI. Choose the best possible option.
1. What is the best definition of the term “theory,” as it is used in science?
A. A theory is a guess or hunch about something that has occurred in nature
B. A theory is a comprehensive set of ideas explaining a phenomenon in nature
C. A theory is based on verifiable laws and can be proven true
D. A theory is a hypothesis that uses laws and observation to make an assumption
2. Which statement below correctly identifies the difference between laws and theories?
A. Laws describe phenomena, while theories explain why phenomena exist
B. Laws are a statement of fact, while theories are a statement of opinion
C. Laws explain why phenomena exist, while theories explain how
D. Laws are a prediction of phenomena, while theories are an explanation
3. Why do scientists develop a hypothesis before conducting research?
A. It gives them direction on how to interpret the results of their research
B. It helps to predict outcomes and define the parameters of the research
C. Hypotheses give the researcher an outcome to shape their work around
D. Hypotheses help a researcher decide which observations to record and which to ignore
4. The branch of Physics that is most important when studying how glasses help people see:
A. Thermodynamics B. Electromagnetism C. Mechanics D. Optics
5. When studying how air conditioners cool your house, then it is:
A. Thermodynamics B. Electromagnetism C. Nuclear Physics D. Optics
6. The branch of Physics that deals with the particles such as neutrons and protons:
A. Solid State Physics B. Plasma Physics C. Electricity D. Nuclear Physics
7. Which branch of science plays an important role in engineering?
A. Biology B. Chemistry C. Physics D. Genetics
8. Physics is one of the branches of:
A. Physical sciences B. Biological sciences C. Social science D. Life sciences
SHORT RESPONSE QUESTIONS
Q.II Give a short response to the following questions
1. Define the following branches of physics: Biophysics, Astrophysics, Optics, Relativistic Mechanics, Nuclear Physics, Acoustics and Computational Physics.
Define the terms theory and law. Also give two examples of each.
Biophysics:
The branch of physics that applies the principles and methods of physics to understand biological systems, such as the behavior of cells, proteins, and other biological molecules.
Astrophysics:
The branch of physics that deals with the study of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and galaxies, as well as the physical processes that govern their formation, structure, and evolution.
Optics:
The branch of physics that focuses on the behavior and properties of light, including its interactions with matter and the construction of devices that use or detect light, such as lenses and microscopes.
Relativistic Mechanics:
The branch of physics that deals with the motion of objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light, where the principles of Einstein’s theory of relativity are applicable.
Nuclear Physics:
The branch of physics that studies the constituents and interactions of atomic nuclei, including phenomena such as nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, and the properties of subatomic particles like protons and neutrons.
Acoustics:
The branch of physics that deals with the study of sound, including its production, transmission, and effects, as well as the design of instruments and environments to control sound.
Computational Physics:
The branch of physics that uses computational methods and numerical algorithms to solve complex physical problems and simulate natural phenomena.
Theory:
A theory is a well-supported explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on rigorous testing and verified evidence. It explains how nature behaves under specific conditions and has predictive and extrapolative power.
Examples:
- Kinetic Molecular Theory
- Theory of General Relativity
Law:
A law is a statement that summarizes an observed regularity or pattern in nature and describes the relationship between variables. It is based on rigorously tested hypotheses and is considered provably true until new evidence disproves it.
Examples:
- Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation
- Boyle’s Law
2. Define Hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a tentative assumption or explanation made before conducting any research. It is formulated to be tested through investigation and experimentation to determine whether it is true or false.
Example:
A scientist might hypothesize that plants grow faster with more sunlight.
3. What is the difference between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics?
| Classical Mechanics | Quantum Mechanics |
| The study of the motion of macroscopic objects under the action of forces. | The study of the mathematical description of microscopic particles under different situations. |
| Applies to everyday objects and systems | Applies to subatomic particles and quantum systems |
| Deals with large objects visible to the naked eye. | Deals with tiny particles like atoms, electrons, and photons |
4. What determines the validity of a theory?
The validity of a theory is determined by how much evidence supports it. A theory is considered valid when it has been tested many times and can accurately explain and predict things that happen in nature.
5. Which part of the study is not handled by the classical study of physics?
Classical physics does not handle the behavior of microscopic particles. This is the focus of quantum mechanics. Classical physics primarily deals with macroscopic objects and their motion under forces.
LONG RESPONSE QUESTIONS
Q.III Give a detailed response to the questions below.
1. Discuss the importance of physics in our daily life.
Physics is essential in our daily life as it explains the principles behind natural phenomena and modern technology
Importance of physics in daily life:
Technology:
Physics is behind everyday technologies like cell phones, GPS, and airplanes, making modern communication and travel possible.
Natural Phenomena:
It helps us understand natural occurrences like gravity, the movement of birds, and the scattering of light in the atmosphere.
Energy and Motion:
Physics explains how vehicles move, how airplanes take off, and how energy is transferred in machines.
Problem Solving:
The principles of physics are applied in designing solutions for real-world problems, such as improving technology and infrastructure.
Scientific Understanding:
Physics helps us comprehend the fundamental forces of nature, improving our understanding of the universe.
2. Briefly discuss the importance of physics in other disciplines of science.
Physics plays a crucial role in various scientific disciplines by providing fundamental principles that explain natural phenomena.
Biology:
Physics helps understand biological processes such as fluid movement (e.g., blood flow) and respiration, as well as the mechanisms behind medical imaging and radiation therapy (biophysics).
Chemistry:
The principles of physics, especially those of subatomic particles, are crucial for understanding chemical reactions and the structure of matter at atomic and molecular levels.
Geology:
Physics, particularly the study of seismic waves and energy transfer, is essential for understanding natural phenomena like earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Astronomy:
The laws of physics, including the theory of relativity, are fundamental in studying celestial bodies and the universe’s structure, movement, and origins.
Astrophysics:
Astrophysics applies physics to explore the physical nature of stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies, as well as their behavior and interactions in space.
Cosmology:
Physics provides the foundation for studying the origin, evolution, and future of the universe, including its large-scale structure and the fundamental forces that shape it.
Geophysics:
Physics is key to studying the Earth’s physical processes, such as its internal structure, magnetic field, and seismic activity.
3. Differentiate the terms ‘science’, “technology’ and ‘engineering with suitable examples.
Science:
- The systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and reasoning.
- Aims to understand the principles or laws that govern natural phenomena.
Example:
Physics studies the laws of motion and gravity to understand how objects move and interact.
Technology:
- The application of scientific knowledge to develop tools, machines, and systems that solve practical problems or fulfill human needs.
- Uses principles discovered by science to create products or processes.
Example:
Smartphones are technological devices that use scientific principles of physics and electronics for communication and computation.
Engineering:
- The practical application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, devices, and systems.
- Focuses on solving real-world problems through creativity and innovation.
Example:
Civil engineering involves constructing bridges, buildings, and roads using principles of materials science and structural mechanics.
4. Explain the terms, hypothesis, theory and law with examples.
Hypothesis:
A hypothesis is a tentative assumption or explanation made before conducting any research. It is formulated to be tested through investigation and experimentation to determine whether it is true or false.
Example:
A scientist might hypothesize that plants grow faster with more sunlight.
Theory:
A theory is a well-supported explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on rigorous testing and verified evidence. It explains how nature behaves under specific conditions and has predictive and extrapolative power.
Examples:
- Kinetic Molecular Theory
- Theory of General Relativity
Law:
A law is a statement that summarizes an observed regularity or pattern in nature and describes the relationship between variables. It is based on rigorously tested hypotheses and is considered provably true until new evidence disproves it.
Examples:
- Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation
- Boyle’s Law