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Basic Laws of Physics - A Complete Guide

Basic Laws of Physics - A Complete Guide

Edited By Vishal kumar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:49 PM IST

Physics is a branch of Science, where the occurrence of anything (Physical, Mechanical, Chemical) is governed by principles, deduced either experimentally or theoretically. Physics is the study of the reason or cause of any changes. Its study includes vast variations ranging from small atomic structures to ever-expanding universes. Every creature has experienced the effects of any laws explained in Physics in their life, so it's become very important to study and understand life governing “Fundamentals of Physics”. In this introductory chapter, we will study the Principles of Physics, and observe all laws of physics and their resemblance to our daily lives. We will study basic Physics and the nature of Physical laws.

This Story also Contains
  1. What are Laws?
  2. Principles of Physics
  3. Important Laws of Physics Class 12
  4. How Laws are Formulated?
  5. Summary
Basic Laws of Physics - A Complete Guide
Basic Laws of Physics - A Complete Guide

What are Laws?

It is a conclusion drawn from past references of scientific experiments and observation. These laws are being continuously checked or they are being under evaluation for proper validation. Broadly speaking study of Physics has been classified as:

  1. Classical Physics
  2. Atomic Physics

Principles of Physics

Any laws that we study in Physics are governed by its principles. According to Physics the physical laws of matter, energy and the fundamental forces of nature govern the interactions between different entities.

Important Laws of Physics Class 12

Here, we will see some basic physics laws for which they exist in our surroundings.

1. Newton’s laws of motion

The three Newton's laws of motion are:

  • The first Law of motion: An object remains at rest or of uniform motion unless compelled by an external force
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$F=0 \Rightarrow constant $

  • Second law of motion: The force acting on an object is equal to the product of its mass and acceleration.

$F=m a$

  • Third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

$
F_{\text {action }}=-F_{\text {reaction }}
$

2. Universal Law Of Gravitation

Newton's law of gravitation states that the attractive force between two masses is proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

$ F=G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}$

3. Law of Conservation Of Energy

The conservation of energy law explains that energy can neither be destroyed nor created and can only be transformed from one form to another form.

$
E_{\text {total }}=\text { constant }
$

4. Archimedes Principles

The Archimedes principle states that the object immersed in a fluid experiences a buoyant force which is equal to the fluid's weight displaced by the object.

$
F_b=\rho V g
$

5. Faraday’s laws

Faraday's law states that induced electromotive force in a closed circuit is proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux in that circuit.

$
\mathcal{E}=-\frac{d \Phi_B}{d t}
$

6. Laws of Thermodynamics

First law of thermodynamics: Change in internal energy is equal to the difference of heat added from work done by the system.

$
\Delta U=Q-W
$

The second law of thermodynamics: In a cyclic process the entropy never decreases

$
\Delta S \geq 0
$

7. Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle

It is impossible to precisely predict the momentum and position of a particle.

$
\Delta x \Delta p \geq \frac{\hbar}{2}
$

8. Conservation Of Momentum

The law of conservation of momentum states that the total momentum of an isolated system remains constant if there is no external force applied.

$
m_1 v_1+m_2 v_2=\text { constant }
$

9. Ohm's Law

Ohm's law states that current through a conductor is directly proportional to the product of voltage and resistance.

$
V=I R
$

10. Coulomb's Law

The force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance bet. This is called Coulomb's law.

$
F=k \frac{q_1 q_2}{r^2}
$

Apart from the above-mentioned basic laws of physics, there are numerous laws left behind.

How Laws are Formulated?

For any assumptions to be formulated as Laws, it should follow:

  • Must exist in confined (given) Space and Time.
  • Conservative in the state of quantity.
  • True, and must hold verification under specified condition
  • Must be derived in simplest form.

Nature of Physical laws

As we have studied before, laws are encapsulated by the conclusion drawn from past references and their universal acceptance.

Summary

This article gives an overview about what are the laws of physics, the principles of physics, how laws are formulated, the physics important laws, and the nature of physics laws. In this article, we have discussed the explanation and equation of some important physics laws.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the various ways of the formulation of the laws?

For a laws to be formulated, it has different ways:

  • Laws derived from approximations

  • Laws derived from the derivations

  • Laws derived from Mathematical concepts

2. Name the scientist who is called ‘the father of physics’?

Galileo Galilei

3. Who is the father of classical mechanics?

Sir Isaac Newton

4. Write basic laws in telugu.

ప్రాథమిక చట్టాలు

5. How are physics laws made?

After the  experimental observations, they are deduced and derived. In this way physics laws are made.

6. How does physics differ from other natural sciences?
Physics differs from other natural sciences in its focus on fundamental principles and mathematical models to describe the universe. While chemistry and biology study specific systems, physics aims to uncover universal laws that apply to all matter and energy, often using more abstract and quantitative approaches.
7. What are the basic laws of physics, and why are they important?
The basic laws of physics include Newton's laws of motion, the laws of thermodynamics, and the laws of electromagnetism. These laws are important because they provide a framework for understanding and predicting the behavior of physical systems, from the motion of planets to the behavior of subatomic particles.
8. Why is physics considered a fundamental science?
Physics is considered a fundamental science because it deals with the basic principles that govern the natural world. It provides the foundation for understanding other scientific disciplines, such as chemistry and biology, and its laws and theories can be applied to explain phenomena across various fields of study.
9. How does physics relate to everyday life?
Physics relates to everyday life in numerous ways, from the principles that allow smartphones and computers to function, to the laws governing the motion of vehicles and the operation of household appliances. Understanding physics can help explain natural phenomena, improve technology, and solve practical problems in various fields.
10. How do physicists use mathematics to describe the physical world?
Physicists use mathematics as a language to precisely describe physical phenomena and relationships. Mathematical equations and models allow physicists to make quantitative predictions, analyze data, and express complex ideas in a concise and unambiguous manner. This mathematical foundation enables the development and testing of physical theories.
11. What is meant by the "physical world" in physics?
The "physical world" in physics refers to the observable universe and all its components that can be studied through scientific methods. This includes matter, energy, forces, and their interactions across various scales, from subatomic particles to cosmic structures.
12. What is the scientific method, and how is it applied in physics?
The scientific method is a systematic approach to investigating phenomena, involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis. In physics, this method is applied by formulating theories based on observations, making predictions, and conducting experiments to test these predictions, leading to the refinement or development of new theories.
13. What is the role of experimentation in physics?
Experimentation plays a crucial role in physics by allowing scientists to test hypotheses, validate theories, and discover new phenomena. Experiments provide empirical evidence to support or refute theoretical predictions and often lead to unexpected discoveries that drive the field forward.
14. How does physics intersect with other scientific disciplines?
Physics intersects with other scientific disciplines in various ways. For example, it provides the foundation for understanding chemical bonding in chemistry, cellular processes in biology, and Earth's systems in geology. Interdisciplinary fields like biophysics, geophysics, and astrophysics demonstrate the broad applicability of physical principles across sciences.
15. What is the importance of symmetry in physics?
Symmetry is a fundamental concept in physics that helps simplify complex problems and reveal underlying principles. It plays a crucial role in formulating conservation laws, understanding particle physics, and developing unified theories. Symmetries in physical laws often reflect deeper truths about the nature of the universe.
16. What is the difference between classical and modern physics?
Classical physics generally refers to theories developed before the 20th century, focusing on macroscopic phenomena and based on Newton's laws and Maxwell's equations. Modern physics, including quantum mechanics and relativity, deals with phenomena at extreme scales (very small or very large) and high speeds, often challenging our intuitive understanding of the world.
17. How does physics contribute to technological advancements?
Physics contributes to technological advancements by providing the fundamental understanding of natural phenomena that can be harnessed for practical applications. Examples include the development of lasers, semiconductors, and nuclear energy, all of which stem from discoveries in physics and have led to numerous technological innovations.
18. How do physicists deal with the vast range of scales in the universe?
Physicists deal with different scales by developing specialized theories and tools for each domain. For example, quantum mechanics is used for subatomic scales, while general relativity is applied to cosmic scales. Physicists also work on unifying theories to bridge these different scales and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the universe.
19. What is the significance of constants in physics?
Constants in physics, such as the speed of light or Planck's constant, are fundamental values that remain unchanged under specific conditions. These constants play crucial roles in physical theories, providing fixed reference points and allowing for consistent calculations and predictions across different phenomena and scales.
20. How do physicists approach the concept of time?
Physicists approach the concept of time as a dimension that is intricately linked with space, forming the fabric of spacetime. In classical physics, time is treated as absolute, but in modern physics, particularly in relativity, time is understood to be relative and can be affected by motion and gravity. The nature of time remains an active area of research in physics.
21. What is the significance of the observer in physics?
The role of the observer is particularly significant in modern physics. In quantum mechanics, the act of observation can influence the outcome of experiments, as described by the measurement problem. In relativity, the observer's frame of reference is crucial for understanding phenomena like time dilation and length contraction. These concepts challenge our classical notions of objective reality and measurement.
22. How does physics deal with the concept of vacuum?
In physics, vacuum is not simply empty space but a complex state with its own properties. Quantum field theory suggests that the vacuum is filled with fluctuating quantum fields, leading to phenomena like virtual particle creation and annihilation. Understanding the nature of vacuum is crucial in areas such as particle physics, cosmology, and the study of dark energy.
23. What is the significance of phase transitions in physics?
Phase transitions are significant in physics as they represent dramatic changes in the properties of a system, often occurring abruptly as a parameter like temperature or pressure is varied. They play crucial roles in understanding phenomena from everyday occurrences like boiling water to exotic states of matter like superconductivity. The study of phase transitions bridges thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and condensed matter physics.
24. How does physics address the concept of information?
Physics addresses information as a fundamental concept related to entropy, order, and the state of physical systems. Information theory, originally developed in the context of communication, has found applications in various areas of physics, including thermodynamics and quantum mechanics. The relationship between information and physical reality is a subject of ongoing research, particularly in areas like black hole physics and quantum information theory.
25. What is the role of models in physics?
Models in physics are simplified representations of physical systems or phenomena that help scientists understand, predict, and explain complex behaviors. They range from conceptual models to mathematical equations and computer simulations. Models allow physicists to focus on essential features of a system while ignoring less relevant details.
26. How do physicists deal with uncertainty in measurements and predictions?
Physicists deal with uncertainty through statistical analysis and the concept of error margins. They use techniques like error propagation and confidence intervals to quantify and report uncertainties in measurements and predictions. In quantum mechanics, uncertainty is a fundamental principle, described by Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.
27. What is the significance of dimensional analysis in physics?
Dimensional analysis is a powerful tool in physics used to check the consistency of equations, derive relationships between physical quantities, and even make rough estimates. It involves analyzing the units of physical quantities to ensure that equations are dimensionally consistent and to gain insights into the nature of physical relationships.
28. How does physics address the concept of energy?
Physics addresses energy as a fundamental quantity that exists in various forms (kinetic, potential, thermal, etc.) and can be transformed from one form to another. The concept of energy conservation is a cornerstone of physics, stating that the total energy of an isolated system remains constant over time, though it may change forms.
29. What is the role of approximations in physics?
Approximations are essential in physics for simplifying complex problems and making them tractable. Physicists often use approximations to focus on the most relevant aspects of a system, neglecting smaller effects. While this can limit the accuracy of predictions, it allows for practical solutions and insights that would be difficult or impossible to obtain otherwise.
30. How do physicists approach the study of complex systems?
Physicists study complex systems by breaking them down into simpler components, identifying key interactions, and using statistical methods to describe collective behaviors. Techniques from chaos theory, network theory, and computational physics are often employed to model and understand systems with many interacting parts, such as climate systems or biological networks.
31. What is the significance of conservation laws in physics?
Conservation laws, such as the conservation of energy, momentum, and charge, are fundamental principles in physics that state certain quantities remain constant in closed systems over time. These laws provide powerful constraints on the behavior of physical systems, simplify problem-solving, and often reflect underlying symmetries in nature.
32. How does physics deal with the concept of force?
In physics, force is understood as an interaction that can cause an object to accelerate, deform, or change direction. Newton's laws of motion provide the classical framework for understanding forces, while in modern physics, forces are often described in terms of field interactions or particle exchanges. The concept of force is central to understanding the behavior of physical systems.
33. What is the role of observation in physics?
Observation plays a crucial role in physics as the foundation of the scientific method. Careful observations lead to the formulation of hypotheses and theories, which are then tested through further observations and experiments. In quantum mechanics, the act of observation itself can influence the behavior of systems, leading to profound philosophical implications.
34. How do physicists approach the concept of space?
Physicists view space as a fundamental aspect of the universe, intricately connected with time to form spacetime. In classical physics, space is treated as absolute and unchanging. However, in modern physics, particularly in general relativity, space is understood to be dynamic and can be curved by the presence of mass and energy.
35. What is the significance of symmetry breaking in physics?
Symmetry breaking is a crucial concept in physics that explains how seemingly symmetric systems can lead to asymmetric outcomes. It plays a vital role in understanding phenomena such as phase transitions, the origin of mass in particle physics, and even the evolution of the early universe. Symmetry breaking helps explain how complexity can arise from simple, symmetric laws.
36. How does physics address the concept of matter?
Physics addresses matter as a fundamental component of the universe, composed of particles that interact through various forces. The study of matter ranges from the behavior of bulk materials in classical physics to the quantum properties of elementary particles. Modern physics also explores the interchangeability of matter and energy, as described by Einstein's famous equation E=mc².
37. What is the role of thought experiments in physics?
Thought experiments are imaginary scenarios used by physicists to explore the consequences of theories and principles. They allow scientists to consider situations that may be impossible or impractical to create in reality. Famous thought experiments like Schrödinger's cat or Einstein's elevator have played crucial roles in developing and understanding complex physical concepts.
38. How do physicists approach the study of light?
Physicists study light as both a wave and a particle (photon), a concept known as wave-particle duality. The wave nature of light explains phenomena like interference and diffraction, while the particle nature accounts for effects like the photoelectric effect. The study of light encompasses optics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics, revealing fundamental properties of the universe.
39. What is the significance of scale in physics?
Scale is a crucial concept in physics as different physical laws and theories often apply at different scales. For example, quantum mechanics governs the behavior of particles at very small scales, while classical mechanics suffices for most everyday objects. Understanding how physical principles change across scales is essential for developing a comprehensive picture of the universe.
40. How does physics address the concept of time?
Physics addresses time as a fundamental dimension of the universe, closely linked with space. In classical physics, time is treated as absolute and uniform. However, Einstein's theory of relativity showed that time can be affected by motion and gravity, leading to phenomena like time dilation. The nature of time, including its direction and whether it's fundamental or emergent, remains an active area of research in physics.
41. What is the role of prediction in physics?
Prediction plays a crucial role in physics as a way to test and validate theories. A successful physical theory should not only explain observed phenomena but also make accurate predictions about future observations or experiments. The ability to make precise predictions, such as the existence of new particles or the behavior of celestial bodies, is a hallmark of powerful physical theories.
42. How do physicists approach the study of motion?
Physicists study motion by analyzing the change in position of objects over time. This includes understanding velocity, acceleration, and the forces that cause motion. While classical mechanics, based on Newton's laws, describes motion at everyday scales, relativistic mechanics is needed for objects moving at very high speeds, and quantum mechanics for motion at atomic and subatomic scales.
43. What is the significance of fields in physics?
Fields are a fundamental concept in physics, representing regions of space where a force or influence exists. Examples include electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields. The field concept allows physicists to describe action at a distance and provides a framework for understanding fundamental forces. In modern physics, fields are considered as fundamental as particles in describing the nature of reality.
44. How does physics deal with the concept of entropy?
Physics deals with entropy as a measure of disorder or randomness in a system. The concept is central to thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, playing a crucial role in understanding heat, energy transformations, and the direction of natural processes. The second law of thermodynamics, which states that the entropy of an isolated system always increases, has profound implications for the nature of time and the fate of the universe.
45. What is the role of symmetry in formulating physical laws?
Symmetry plays a fundamental role in formulating physical laws. Many laws of physics, such as conservation laws, arise from underlying symmetries in nature. For example, the conservation of energy stems from time-translation symmetry. Identifying and understanding symmetries helps physicists develop more general and powerful theories, as well as simplify complex problems.
46. How do physicists approach the study of waves?
Physicists study waves as disturbances that propagate through a medium or space, transferring energy without transferring matter. This includes mechanical waves like sound and water waves, as well as electromagnetic waves like light. Wave physics encompasses concepts such as frequency, amplitude, wavelength, and interference, which are applied across various branches of physics, from classical mechanics to quantum mechanics.
47. How does physics address the concept of causality?
Physics addresses causality as the relationship between causes and effects in physical systems. While classical physics assumes strict causality, quantum mechanics introduces elements of probabilistic causality. In relativity, the concept of causality is preserved but complicated by the fact that the order of events can depend on the observer's reference frame, leading to the idea of light cones and causal structure of spacetime.
48. What is the role of unification in physics?
Unification is a key goal in physics, aiming to combine different theories or forces into a single, coherent framework. Historical examples include Maxwell's unification of electricity and magnetism, and the electroweak theory unifying electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force. The search for a "theory of everything" that unifies all fundamental forces is an ongoing pursuit in theoretical physics.
49. How do physicists approach the study of particles?
Physicists study particles as fundamental constituents of matter and carriers of forces. This involves investigating their properties, interactions, and behavior using quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. The Standard Model of particle physics provides a framework for understanding known particles and their interactions, while research continues to explore phenomena beyond this model.
50. What is the significance of constants of nature in physics?
Constants of nature, such as the speed of light, Planck's constant, and the gravitational constant, are fundamental values that appear to be unchanging throughout the universe. These constants play crucial roles in physical theories and equations, providing fixed reference points for calculations and predictions. The precise values of these constants and why they have the values they do are subjects of ongoing research and speculation in physics.
51. What is the role of dimensionality in physics?
Dimensionality plays a crucial role in physics, affecting the behavior of physical systems and the form of physical laws. While we experience three spatial dimensions and one time dimension, theories in physics often explore the implications of additional or fewer dimensions. String theory, for example, proposes extra spatial dimensions to unify fundamental forces, while some condensed matter systems can be effectively described using fewer dimensions.
52. How do physicists approach the study of chaos and complexity?
Physicists study chaos and complexity by investigating systems that are highly sensitive to initial conditions and exhibit non-linear behavior. Chaos theory provides tools for understanding seemingly random phenomena in deterministic systems. The study of complex systems involves analyzing emergent behaviors that arise from the interactions of many simple components, applicable to fields ranging from fluid dynamics to social systems.
53. What is the role of emergence in physics?
Emergence in physics refers to the appearance of complex behaviors or properties in systems that are not predictable from the properties of their individual components. This concept is crucial in understanding phenomena across various scales, from the behavior of fluids to the properties of materials and even consciousness. Emergence challenges reductionist approaches and highlights the importance of studying systems as wholes.
54. How do physicists approach the study of time irreversibility?
Time irreversibility, or the arrow of time

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