Physics is one of the oldest and most fundamental sciences, underpinning our understanding of the universe and everything in it. Yet despite its profound importance -- or perhaps because of it -- many myths and misconceptions about physics have taken root in popular culture, education, and even among students of science themselves.
These myths can distort our perception of the subject, make it seem more mysterious or more difficult than it is, or lead to erroneous ideas about how the world actually works. In this article, we'll explore and debunk some of the most common myths about physics, explain why they persist, and highlight what the truth really is.
Myth 1: Physics is just about memorizing formulas
One of the most widespread misconceptions about physics is that it's simply about memorizing a long list of equations and plugging in numbers. Students who struggle with the subject often describe it as "just math with different symbols," believing that success comes from memorizing Newton's laws, Ohm's law, Einstein's famous E = mc2, and so on.
Why it's wrong:
Physics is not about memorization -- it's about understanding concepts, applying reasoning, and developing a way of thinking that allows you to solve problems and explain phenomena. The formulas in physics are tools that emerge from deeper principles, and knowing when and how to use them is more important than rote memorization.
Myth 2: Physics is only about things that happen in outer space
Some people imagine physics as a discipline that concerns only astronauts, black holes, and the Big Bang. "Why do I need to learn physics? I'm not planning to go to space!" is a common sentiment among students.
Why it's wrong:
While physics certainly explores celestial phenomena and the cosmos, it also describes everyday life. Walking, driving a car, cooking, playing sports, charging your phone, watching TV -- all these activities involve principles of physics like friction, thermodynamics, electricity, and motion.
Myth 3: Physics is just common sense
At the opposite extreme, some people dismiss physics as nothing more than "common sense." They assume that their intuition is enough to understand physical phenomena.
Why it's wrong:
In reality, physics often contradicts our intuition. For example:
- Heavier objects don't fall faster than lighter ones in the absence of air resistance.
- Time can pass at different rates for observers moving at different speeds (time dilation).
- Light behaves both like a particle and a wave.
Our senses evolved to help us survive in a narrow range of conditions on Earth, and they don't necessarily equip us to understand the deeper truths about nature.
Myth 4: You have to be a genius to understand physics
Another damaging myth is that physics is only for "geniuses" or "gifted" people. This myth is reinforced by the fame of physicists like Einstein and Hawking, who are often portrayed as uniquely brilliant minds.
Why it's wrong:
While physics can be challenging, it is accessible to anyone willing to think carefully, work hard, and stay persistent. You don't need genius-level intelligence to grasp physics -- you need curiosity, patience, and practice.
Myth 5: Physics can explain everything already
Many people believe that physics has already figured out all the big questions.
Why it's wrong:
Physics has made tremendous progress, but many mysteries remain. We still don't fully understand dark matter and dark energy, which make up most of the universe's mass and energy. We don't yet have a complete theory that unifies quantum mechanics and general relativity. Even everyday phenomena -- like the behavior of turbulent fluids -- are still being actively researched.
Myth 6: Physics and biology/chemistry are completely separate
Some students see physics as completely unrelated to the other sciences -- as if it exists in its own bubble.
Why it's wrong:
In reality, physics underpins all of the natural sciences. Chemistry is fundamentally based on physics, particularly quantum mechanics, which explains the behavior of electrons in atoms and molecules. Biology, too, depends on physical principles -- from the flow of ions in neurons to the thermodynamics of metabolism and the mechanics of muscles.
Myth 7: There's no creativity in physics
Many think of physics as rigid and dry -- just applying strict rules to solve problems.
Why it's wrong:
On the contrary, physics requires immense creativity. Coming up with new theories, designing clever experiments, and finding innovative ways to solve problems are all deeply creative processes.
Myth 8: Physics only describes what we can see
Many assume that physics deals only with tangible, visible things.
Why it's wrong:
Physics also explores phenomena that are invisible to the naked eye: atoms, subatomic particles, electromagnetic waves, neutrinos, dark matter, and more. These are inferred through careful experiments and observations, even if we cannot directly see them.
Myth 9: Classical physics is wrong because of modern physics
Many believe that classical physics (like Newton's laws) was "disproven" and is no longer valid because of relativity and quantum mechanics.
Why it's wrong:
Classical physics is not "wrong" -- it's an approximation that works extremely well in everyday conditions. Newton's laws are still used to design bridges, airplanes, and cars. Relativity and quantum mechanics become necessary only in extreme conditions -- at very high speeds, very strong gravity, or very small scales.
Myth 10: Physics is all theory and has no real-world impact
Some people see physics as detached from everyday concerns -- something that happens in ivory towers, not in the real world.
Why it's wrong:
Physics has transformed our world. Technologies like computers, smartphones, lasers, medical imaging, and GPS all rely on discoveries in physics. Even electricity and modern plumbing depend on principles first elucidated by physicists.
Why do these myths persist?
These misconceptions stick around for a few reasons:
- Poor teaching or communication: Sometimes physics is taught in a way that emphasizes rote learning or neglects to show its connection to everyday life.
- Cultural portrayals: Movies and TV often show physicists as unapproachable geniuses working on obscure topics.
- Intimidation factor: The use of mathematics can make the subject seem more difficult than it is, scaring off many students.
- Human intuition: Many physical principles run counter to what we "feel" should happen based on our limited experiences.
How can we correct these myths?
Here are some ways educators, communicators, and students can help dispel these misconceptions:
- Emphasize concepts over memorization. Encourage understanding why equations work, not just how to use them.
- Connect physics to daily life. Show how principles of physics explain familiar phenomena and underpin technologies we use every day.
- Highlight the creativity and beauty of physics. Tell stories of how breakthroughs were made and the imaginative thinking behind them.
- Make physics accessible. Use clear language, relatable examples, and hands-on activities to engage students.
- Celebrate diversity in physics. Showcase physicists of different backgrounds to counter the stereotype that physics is only for a certain type of person.
Conclusion
Physics is a powerful and fascinating way to understand the universe, but it is often misunderstood. Myths about physics being just about memorizing formulas, requiring genius-level intellect, having no relevance to daily life, or being purely theoretical can discourage students and distort the public's view of the field.
By uncovering and correcting these misconceptions, we can make physics more accessible, inspiring, and engaging for everyone. Physics is not just a set of rules -- it is a journey of discovery, a testament to human curiosity and ingenuity.
Whether you're gazing at the stars, charging your smartphone, or just walking down the street, physics is there, quietly explaining it all. And anyone, with enough curiosity and effort, can begin to understand its language.
In the end, physics is not about being a genius or memorizing formulas -- it's about asking questions, seeking answers, and never losing your sense of wonder.
You can learn these concepts and more at Dr Hock's maths and physics tuition.