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The Physics of Everyday Life: Unveiling the Hidden Forces Around Us

Physics, often regarded as a complex and, to some, 'boring' subject, is in fact the bedrock of our daily encounters. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, physics plays a vital role in shaping our lives. Now remember, the ones mentioned here are only a handful of the applications. In fact, everything in physics is actually applicable to the real world. Let's dive right in!


1. The Wonders of Fluid Dynamics

Ever wonder why your morning coffee swirls as you stir it?

Keightley, W. (n.d.). Coffee Swirl. Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/feverblue/3992916003

Fluid dynamics, a branch of physics, explains this phenomenon. When you spin your spoon, you create a vortex in the liquid. In fluid dynamics, a vortex is simply a region in a fluid in which the flow revolves around an axis line, which may be straight or curved.


This vortex redistributes heat, ensuring your coffee cools evenly and your morning beverage is enjoyable.



2. The Dance of Electromagnetism in Electronics

Our smartphones are surely a big part of our day. As you reach for your smartphone, you engage with one of the most remarkable feats of physics – electromagnetism.


C, R. (2021, October 5). Smartphone Gestures. Mr Aberthon. https://mraberthon.com/smartphone-gestures/

The screen you tap, the speakers you listen to, and the battery that powers it all rely on electromagnetic principles! Miniature circuits within your device control the flow of electrons, allowing you to send texts, watch videos, and stay connected with the world.




3. The Symphony of Sound Waves

Music is another integral part of our lives. Most of us love some tunes to freshen up our moods.

Moore, S. (2021, December 8). FreeWave Blog Series: The Intelligent Edge. FreeWave. https://www.freewave.com/freewave-blog-series-intelligent-edge/

Whether you're listening to your favorite song or chatting with friends, you're experiencing the physics of sound waves. Sound travels in waves, and different instruments and voices produce unique waveforms. These waves reach your ears, where they're translated into the melodies and rhythms you love.



4. Staying Grounded: The Physics of Gravity

Last but not least, let's talk about gravity – the force that keeps us firmly rooted in the Earth.


Rider, P. (n.d.). 6,100+ Zero Gravity Illustrations, Royalty-Free Vector Graphics & Clip Art - iStock. https://www.istockphoto.com/illustrations/zero-gravity

This invisible force acts on everything, from the classic apples falling from trees to the way we stand, walk,

or even jump. Gravity is the reason why you don't float away when you jump and why everything falls downward when dropped.






Physics may seem abstract or uninteresting in theory, but it's all around us, shaping our daily experiences. It is quite impossible to escape from it, actually.

By understanding the physics of everyday life, we gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us and the scientific principles that make it all work.

So, the next time you sip your coffee, take a walk, or sit under an apple tree, remember that you're interacting with the fascinating world of physics right in your own everyday life.


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