Science
Discover classical mechanics, the foundational branch of physics that describes the motion of everyday objects, from planets to projectiles.
Classical mechanics is a fundamental branch of physics that describes the motion of macroscopic objects, from projectiles to machinery, planets, and even galaxies. Often called Newtonian mechanics, it is built upon the foundational principles Sir Isaac Newton established in 1687. It uses concepts like force, mass, and momentum to predict how objects will move when subjected to various influences. This field accurately explains the behavior of objects that are not moving at speeds close to the speed of light and are larger than the atomic scale, where relativity and quantum mechanics become necessary.
While centuries old, classical mechanics is far from outdated; it remains indispensable in modern science and technology. Its principles are the bedrock of most engineering fields, including mechanical, civil, and aerospace engineering, used for designing everything from vehicles and bridges to robotic arms. As technology advances in areas like automation, space exploration, and sports science, a deep understanding of classical mechanics is crucial for innovation. It provides the essential framework for modeling the physical world before considering the complexities of quantum or relativistic effects.
The principles of classical mechanics are woven into the fabric of daily life. The design of cars, including safety features like seatbelts that work based on inertia, is a direct application. Every time you throw a ball, ride a bicycle, or see a building stand securely, you are witnessing classical mechanics in action. It governs the orbits of satellites that provide GPS and communication services, the mechanics of simple machines used in homes and construction, and even the biomechanics of human movement in sports and physical therapy.