Hi Dan,
Physics is basically the study of how stuff works. In some sense,
it is the most fundamental science -- that is, it finds and describes
the most basic laws that govern the universe. If you look at physics in
that way, then it not only relates to electrical engineering, but to
all other sciences as well. For example, if a biologist is studying how
living organisms function, it is necessary to know how the cells work
and how the molecules in the cells interact with each other
(chemistry). In order to really understand how the molecules interact
with each other, it is necessary to know about the individual atoms
making up the molecules and how the atoms bond with each other. The way
that the individual atoms behave is described by quantum mechanics, and
this is studied by physicists.
Electrical engineering primarily focuses on applying electricity
and magnetism principles from physics to make useful devices and
materials. There is often a lot of overlap between electrical
engineering and physics, especially in the area of solid state physics.
Basically, physics is a really fun and cool science to study. :) No
matter what field you end up in, I would highly recommend taking a
physics class or two because it will give you an idea of how the world
works. Thanks for your question!
(published on 10/22/2007)
