Want to know how the world works?
At its most basic level, physics is the study of the fundamental laws that govern matter and energy in the universe. The core areas of classical dynamics (17th century), electromagnetism (19th century), and thermodynamics were well understood by 1900. In 1900, Lord Kelvin said: "There is nothing new to be discovered in physics now. All that remains is more and more precise measurement." However, by 1905 physics had seen the birth of relativity and quantum theory. It seems physics was not quite finished after all. New discoveries and computational advances continue to change our view of the physical universe. Dark matter & dark energy, superconductivity, and quantum gravity are just some of the topics at the forefront of current research in physics. Clearly, there is much yet to learn.
Alumni & Students in Action
- Dr. Douglas Hudgins, a physics and chemistry major, earned his doctorate at Cornell University and is an astrochemist and administrator for NASA.
- Physics and math major Mary Hofbeck earned a graduate degree in acoustics at Penn State University, then joined Boeing as an acoustical physicist.
- Adrian graduates are successful physics teachers.
- Summer research sites include University of Notre Dame, Michigan State, Indiana University and others.
