Science as Art

The physical sciences in general, and physics in particular, are often considered to be disciplines that are widely removed from all forms of artistic endeavor. There exists the stereotype of the physicist as a logical, systematic and very boring individual. After all, science involves observing phenomena and finding systematic rules that account for the observed phenomena. Moreover, it requires the immutable, and often impenetrable rules of higher mathematics. There seems to be no room for creativity or faith, except perhaps faith in the power of mathematics. One of the purposes of these notes is to convince you that physics and art are not as far removed from each other as many believe. There are, of course, crucial differences, which we will emphasize, but there are similarities as well. Good art requires observation, talent and creativity. The result is often beautiful and moving, but to have value it must also be somehow relevant to the observer, otherwise it has no meaning. All of the above apply to the physical sciences as well. The fact that science requires observation, talent and relevance is perhaps self evident. Scientists observer their surroundings, and if they are talented they will formulate and/or verify a theory that describes what they see. This theory is relevant if it can be ultimately use to make a better microwave or, at a more elementary level, if it can be used to predict and explain new phenomena. But what of beauty, creativity and even faith? Are these important attributes of science? In our opinion, the answer is yes. Science requires more than observation, it requires interpretation and the breaking of intellectual boundaries. To make advances scientists must continually evaluate, and sometimes reformulate the very foundations of their field. They must be willing to reinterpret, and if necessary to abandon old concepts for radically new ones. Often this involves an intuitive leap that is no less an act of creativity than painting a masterpiece. The best example of this is Einstein and his theory of relativity, but it occurs at all levels of science to various degrees. When formulating a successful theory, or performing a successful experiment, a scientist creates a new canvas through which we can all observe the world in a new light. And, as we will hopefully convince you in these notes, it is not necessary to master all of the scientist's skills in order to appreciate the canvas and what it means for us.

Modern Technology

• Introduction
  

In this chapter we will discuss the purpose of science and the general framework of the scientific method, which forms the basis of the adoption and rejection of any theory in science. We will also highlight some of the key attributes of science that distinguish it from other human endeavors. The concept of symmetry and its importance in modern science will then be explained. Finally, we will describe useful systems of units and scientific notation for representing large and small numbers.