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Tools of the Trade

Physicists use a number of tools in their study of the natural world. Here you can find out about everything from conceptual tools, such as the scientific method and mathematics, to physical tools, such as telescopes.
Fundamental Physical Constants
A list of the fundamental physical constants used in physics problems.
Free-Body Diagrams: An Introduction
The first step in most physics problems is drawing a free-body diagram. This article will provide you with the necessary information to tackle this process and use it effectively to help in physics problem-solving.
Idealized Models: An Introduction
Physicists generally break problems down into idealized models, which are simplified versions of the problems that look only at the elements they need to look at. This primer will give you tips on how to use such models properly
Introduction to the Scientific Method
This introduction illuminates the main principles of the scientific method, as well as hypothesis creation and testing procedures that are used in executing the scientific method.
International System of Measurements
Physics uses the units defined by the International System of Measurements (SI), as does most of science. This introduction to the SI units provides a foundation for the units that are used to quantify the physical qualities of the universe and how they were developed and defined.

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