Theoretical physics involves creating mathematical explanations for natural events, including complex problems like the development of the universe. Unlike experimental physics, theories cannot be tested, so accuracy is determined through predicting or explaining physical phenomena, being supported by known observations, and withstanding debate. Some widely accepted theories were proposed by pioneers like Newton and Einstein, who made logical leaps and used thought experiments.
Theoretical physics is a branch of the field of physics that is dedicated to providing mathematical explanations for natural events. Many disciplines within physics fall under the purview of theoretical physics because they involve the design of formulas that may not be empirically testable. Researchers in this field are pondering some very complex problems and questions, such as how the universe developed.
Physics is an intriguing branch of science because it often involves the development of theories that cannot be tested with an experimental model, violating one of the fundamental precepts of empirical science. Scientific researchers usually want to develop a theory, design an experiment that will test that theory, run the experiment, and publish the results. In theoretical physics, researchers develop theories, but are unable to test them. This separates theoretical physics from experimental physics, where researchers design and perform experiments to explore their theories.
Since theoretical physics cannot be supported with the use of experiments, researchers rely on other tools to determine whether or not their theories are accurate. The theory should be able to accurately predict or explain physical phenomena, for example, and should be supported by known observations. Ideally, the theory should also be clean and tidy, with some theoretical physics adhering to the idea of Occam’s razor, believing that the simplest explanation is the best. Theories should also withstand vigorous discussion and debate, with theoretical physicists constantly exchanging ideas and critiques to improve their field of science.
Some theories in this field have been widely accepted and are routinely taught in classrooms, used in physics research, and applied in industries around the world. Ongoing research into these theories continues as scientists want to fully explore all aspects of theoretical physics. Other theories have been proposed and seem plausible, but have either not been fully supported or require further research, and newer theories are considered “fringe theories” that require much more exploration, discussion, and observation.
Sir Isaac Newton is widely regarded as a pioneer in the field of theoretical physics, as is Albert Einstein. Both physicists were notable for making logical leaps that sometimes challenged known information or observations and required a highly theoretical world view. Newton’s work also involved a substantial expansion of the mathematical language of calculus so that he could express his own theories. Theoretical physicists also famously engage in thought experiments, in which they explore their ideas in their own minds, without the use of a laboratory.
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