Applied physics, also known as engineering physics, is the connecting study between physics as a pure science, mathematics and engineering. Fundamental physics is combined with problem solving and engineering skills to brooded applications. This interdisciplinary knowledge is designed for continuous innovations occurring with technology.
The term “applied” is distinguished from “pure” by the motivation and nature of the research. Applied physicists conduct research to develop new technologies or solve engineering problems by the application of basic scientific principles; whereas physicists conduct research to prove new theories and discover new abstract concepts. For example, Einstein’s special theory of relativity was discovered by pure physicists. The design of fiber optic technology is an applied physics discovery.
The field of applied physics has a wide variety of research areas. Astronomy, Astrophysics and Relativity and Condensed Matter Physics and Optics are just a few examples of the vast range of research areas. These research areas are concerned with the potential for new technology or practical applications.
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