45. The language of physics

A mathematical equation showing half-sigma

Introduction

Physics is a language—one that allows us to describe the universe with precision, elegance, and clarity. Just as words enable us to communicate complex ideas, the language of physics gives us the tools to understand and explain the fundamental laws that govern reality. This year, as I continue to explore my passion for physics, I’m focusing on the words and concepts that shape our understanding of the universe, and how they connect to the broader themes of learning, communication, and discovery.

The vocabulary of physics

Physics is full of specialized vocabulary—terms that convey specific meanings and concepts that are essential for understanding the subject. Words like "momentum," "entropy," and "relativity" are more than just technical jargon; they are keys to unlocking the mysteries of the universe. Each term in physics carries with it a wealth of knowledge, encapsulating ideas that have been developed over centuries of scientific inquiry.

This year, I’m setting a goal to deepen my understanding of the vocabulary of physics. Through my Words of the Week (WoW) series, I’ll be exploring key terms in physics, breaking them down into their core components, and explaining their significance in a way that is accessible and engaging. By doing so, I hope to demystify these concepts, making them more approachable for those who are new to the subject, while also reinforcing my own understanding.

Words as tools for discovery

In both physics and language, words are tools for discovery. Just as physicists use mathematical equations to describe the behavior of particles and forces, we use words to explore ideas, convey meaning, and connect with others. The process of learning new vocabulary in physics is similar to expanding one’s general vocabulary—it’s about acquiring the tools needed to think more deeply and communicate more effectively.

Each week, as I introduce new words in the WoW series, I’ll be connecting them to broader themes in physics, showing how they fit into the larger picture of scientific understanding. Whether it’s the concept of "entropy" in thermodynamics or "superposition" in quantum mechanics, each word will serve as a gateway to deeper exploration, helping to build a richer, more nuanced understanding of the universe.

The poetry of physics

Beyond its technical vocabulary, physics also has a poetic quality—a way of describing the universe that is both precise and beautiful. The symmetry of equations, the elegance of mathematical models, and the simplicity of fundamental laws all contribute to a language that is as much about aesthetics as it is about accuracy. Physics, in this sense, is a form of poetry, where each term, equation, and concept is carefully chosen to convey meaning in the most elegant way possible.

This year, I’m exploring the poetic side of physics, looking at how the language of science can be both informative and inspiring. Through my writing, I’ll be highlighting the beauty of physics—the way it captures the complexity of the universe in simple, elegant terms. By combining the precision of scientific language with the creativity of expression, I hope to make physics more relatable and engaging, encouraging others to see the subject not just as a discipline but as a source of wonder and inspiration.

Connecting physics to everyday language

One of my goals for this year is to bridge the gap between the specialized vocabulary of physics and everyday language. Many of the concepts we use in physics have parallels in our daily lives, and by drawing these connections, we can make the subject more accessible to a broader audience. For example, the idea of "momentum" in physics can be related to the momentum we experience in our personal and professional lives—how small actions can build up over time to create significant change.

Through my blog and the WoW series, I’ll be exploring these connections, showing how the language of physics can be applied to everyday situations. By doing so, I hope to make the subject more relevant and engaging, encouraging readers to see the value of physics not just as an academic pursuit but as a way of understanding the world around them.

Conclusion: the power of words in physics

Physics is a language that allows us to explore, describe, and understand the universe. By focusing on the vocabulary of physics, the poetry of its concepts, and the connections to everyday language, I’m setting goals that will deepen my understanding of the subject while making it more accessible to others. This year, I’m excited to continue my journey through the language of physics, using words as tools for discovery, communication, and inspiration. Whether through the WoW series or my broader exploration of scientific ideas, I’m committed to making physics a subject that is not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply meaningful and beautiful.

The reference artwork