Physics helps us understand how the universe works
Have you ever wondered how the universe started? Why the earth rotates around the sun? What the climate is like in outer space? Physicists study the entire universe, so studying physics provides you with the opportunity to learn more about the world we live in. One of the exciting things about physics is that there are so many different specialities. For example, biophysicists study how biology is affected by the laws of physics while particle physicists study the building blocks of the universe. This study not only provides you with a greater appreciation for the world around you, but also influences the development of new products.
Physics makes the modern world possible
Without the understanding of physics we have now, the world we live in would be completely different. Take aeroplanes, for instance. Physicist’s understanding of forces (lift, drag, weight and thrust) helps planes fly quickly and effectively. Similarly, physics theories have been applied to aeroplace design. Aeroplane wings are shaped to make air move faster over the top of the wing, which helps create a force that lifts the wing into the air. If you’re interested in aerospace design, it’s worth exploring a career as an aeronautical engineer, where you’ll design, build and maintain aerospace systems.
Aside from transport, physics theory has been used to develop products for the construction, telecommunication and even healthcare sectors.
Physics study provides transferable skills
Your physics experience will come in handy in a range of situations, many completely unrelated to physics. Conducting physics research gives you valuable skills, such as data analysis and problem solving. Furthermore, thinking about how the universe works and all the unanswered questions (is there life on other planets) develops your critical thinking and analytical skills. Such transferable skills are highly valuable in a range of industries, from careers in finance to law.
Physics helps us help others
Physics has helped transform the lives of so many people. Physics mentoring initiatives, educational programmes and scholarships help increase access to physics education. This allows students (especially those from underrepresented backgrounds) to pursue the STEM career of their dreams.
Physics has also helped revolutionise the medical sector. Medical physicists utilise their understanding of physics theories to design and develop healthcare products. Without physics, we wouldn’t have products like MRI scanners and X-rays.