"Theoretical physics is a branch of physics that employs mathematical models and abstractions of physical objects and systems to rationalize, explain and predict natural phenomena."
A subfield that uses mathematical models and theoretical frameworks to describe and explain physical phenomena.
classical mechanics: The study of motion and its causes in the absence of external forces.
classical field theory: The study of physical fields and their behavior.
quantum mechanics: The study of the behavior of matter and energy at the quantum level.
quantum field theory: The study of the behavior of quantum mechanical systems and particles through the use of quantum fields.
quantum electrodynamics: The study of the interactions between electrically charged particles and the electromagnetic field.
statistical mechanics: The study of the behavior of large systems using statistical methods.
thermodynamics: The study of the relationships between thermal and mechanical energy.
relativity: The study of the relationships between space, time, and gravity.
cosmology: The study of the origin and evolution of the universe.
particle physics: The study of the behavior of subatomic particles.
string theory: A theoretical framework that seeks to unify all the forces of the universe.
black holes: A region of space-time exhibiting such strong gravitational effects that nothing can escape from it.
dark matter: Matter that does not emit, absorb or reflect any electromagnetic radiation, and can only be detected through its gravitational effect.
dark energy: A hypothetical form of energy that permeates all of space and tends to accelerate the expansion of the universe.
brane cosmology: A theoretical model of the universe that introduces additional dimensions beyond the usual four that we experience in everyday life.
"This is in contrast to experimental physics, which uses experimental tools to probe these phenomena."
"The advancement of science generally depends on the interplay between experimental studies and theory."
"In some cases, theoretical physics adheres to standards of mathematical rigor."
"For example, while developing special relativity, Albert Einstein was concerned with the Lorentz transformation which left Maxwell's equations invariant, but was apparently uninterested in the Michelson–Morley experiment on Earth's drift through a luminiferous aether."
"Albert Einstein was apparently uninterested in the Michelson–Morley experiment on Earth's drift through a luminiferous aether."
"The Michelson–Morley experiment on Earth's drift through a luminiferous aether."
"Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for explaining the photoelectric effect."
"The photoelectric effect was previously an experimental result lacking a theoretical formulation."
"Theoretical physics employs mathematical models and abstractions of physical objects and systems to rationalize, explain, and predict natural phenomena."
"Experimental physics uses experimental tools to probe these phenomena."
"In some cases, theoretical physics adheres to standards of mathematical rigor while giving little weight to experiments and observations."
"Albert Einstein was concerned with the Lorentz transformation which left Maxwell's equations invariant."
"The Lorentz transformation leaves Maxwell's equations invariant."
"The Michelson–Morley experiment is related to Earth's drift through a luminiferous aether."
"Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for explaining the photoelectric effect."
"The photoelectric effect was previously an experimental result lacking a theoretical formulation."
"Theoretical physics employs mathematical models and abstractions."
"Experimental physics uses experimental tools but does not necessarily rely on mathematical models."
"Theoretical physics employs mathematical models and abstractions of physical objects and systems to rationalize, explain, and predict natural phenomena."