Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised May 16, 2026

Applied physics

Applied physics is the application of physics to solve scientific or engineering problems. It is usually considered a bridge or a connection between physics and engineering. "Applied" is distinguished from "pure" by a subtle combination of factors, such as the motivation and attitude of researchers and the nature of the relationship to the technology or science that may be affected by the work. Applied physics is rooted in the fundamental truths and basic concepts of the physical sciences but is concerned with the utilization of scientific principles in practical devices and systems and with the application of physics in other areas of science and high technology.

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May 16, 2026
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Experiment using a laser source ↗
A magnetic resonance image source ↗

Applied physics is the application of physics to solve scientific or engineering problems. It is usually considered a bridge or a connection between physics and engineering. "Applied" is distinguished from "pure" by a subtle combination of factors, such as the motivation and attitude of researchers and the nature of the relationship to the technology or science that may be affected by the work. Applied physics is rooted in the fundamental truths and basic concepts of the physical sciences but is concerned with the utilization of scientific principles in practical devices and systems and with the application of physics in other areas of science and high technology.1

Computer modeling of the Space Shuttle during re-entry source ↗

Examples of research and development areas

See also

See also

References

References

  1. "General Information on Applied Physics". Stanford Department of Applied Physics. Archived from the original on 7 March 2007.