The Academy of Romanian Scientists

MARGARIT PAVELESCU
ACADEMY OF ROMANIAN SCIENTITS ROMANIA
Opening Speech at 21st International Balkan Workshop on Applied Physics and Materials Science – July 11-14, 2023

Theoretical physics and applied physics are two interconnected branches of the broader field of physics. Theoretical physics involves the development and exploration of mathematical models, frameworks, and theories to understand the fundamental principles that govern the universe. It aims to provide explanations for observed phenomena and make predictions about new phenomena that can be tested through experiments.

On the other hand, applied physics focuses on the practical application of physical principles and theories to solve real-world problems. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation, using insights from theoretical physics to develop new technologies and improve existing ones. Applied physics finds its applications in various fields such as engineering, materials science, electronics, optics, and many more.

The correlation between theoretical physics and applied physics is significant. Theoretical physics provides the foundation and conceptual framework upon which applied physics builds. Theoretical advances often inspire new applications and technologies in applied physics. Conversely, challenges and problems encountered in applied physics drive the need for further theoretical investigations and refinements.

The synergy between these two branches leads to a virtuous cycle of discovery and innovation. Theoretical physics drives fundamental understanding, enabling the development of new concepts and theoretical frameworks. Applied physics, in turn, tests and validates these theories, while also providing feedback and practical constraints that refine and expand theoretical models.

Ultimately, the collaboration between theoretical physics and applied physics is crucial for advancing our understanding of the universe and improving our technological capabilities. It is through this symbiotic relationship that we continue to unravel the mysteries of nature and harness its principles for the betterment of society.

The ten arguments are the following:

1. Medicine: Applied physics revolutionizes medicine through various imaging technologies. X-rays, for example, are essential for diagnosing fractures and identifying tumours. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of internal body structures. Ultrasound uses sound waves to visualise organs and monitor pregnancies. Applied physics also contributes to radiation therapy techniques, where precise doses of radiation are delivered to treat cancer while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
2. Electronics: Applied physics is fundamental to the development of electronic devices. It enables the miniaturization of transistors and the design of integrated circuits, facilitating advancements in computing power, memory capacity, and energy efficiency. The principles of applied physics govern the behavior of semiconductors, allowing for the creation of transistors and diodes that form the backbone of modern electronics.
3. Energy: Applied physics plays a critical role in the field of energy, especially in advancing renewable energy technologies. Solar energy, for instance, benefits from applied physics to optimize the efficiency of photovoltaic cells. Researchers leverage material engineering, light trapping techniques, and innovative designs to enhance solar panel performance. Similarly, applied physics principles are crucial in wind energy, enabling the design and optimization of wind turbines for maximum energy extraction. Furthermore, applied physics contributes to energy storage systems such as batteries and supercapacitors, helping to balance power supply and demand and promote a sustainable energy landscape.
4. Materials Science: Applied physics is at the forefront of materials science, driving the development of new and improved materials. Nanotechnology, a field that operates at the nanoscale, exploits applied physics principles to engineer materials with unique properties. Carbon nanotubes, for instance, possess exceptional strength and electrical conductivity, making them suitable for applications in areas such as electronics, energy storage, and composite materials. Nanoparticles find applications in catalysts, drug delivery systems, and sensors, revolutionizing fields such as medicine, environmental monitoring, and manufacturing.
5. Optics and Photonics: Applied physics plays a central role in optics and photonics, which are crucial for numerous technologies. It encompasses the generation, manipulation, and detection of light, enabling innovations such as lasers, fiber optics, and optical communication systems. Lasers have found applications in various fields, including medicine, telecommunications, and manufacturing. Fiber optics enable high-speed data transfer over long distances, forming the backbone of internet connectivity and telecommunication networks. Furthermore, applied physics contributes to the development of advanced imaging systems, digital cameras, and displays, enhancing resolution, sensitivity, and overall imaging capabilities.
6. Environmental Science: Applied physics plays a vital role in addressing environmental challenges by providing essential tools and insights. It facilitates the development of sensors and remote sensing techniques to monitor air and water quality, aiding in pollution control and resource management. Applied physics principles are also integral to climate modelling, enabling scientists to simulate and predict the Earth’s climate system, contributing to a better understanding of climate change. Furthermore, applied physics fosters the development of sustainable solutions, such as energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy technologies, and waste management strategies, to minimize the environmental impact of human activities.
7. Transportation: Applied physics contributes significantly to the design and optimization of transportation systems, promoting efficiency and sustainability. In the field of aerospace engineering, applied physics principles are crucial for aerodynamics, studying the airflow around aircraft shapes, wings, and propulsion systems. This knowledge helps improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance overall flight performance. Applied physics also plays a role in optimizing combustion engines and developing alternative propulsion systems, fostering advancements in fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
8. Aerospace Engineering: Applied physics plays a pivotal role in space exploration and satellite communications. It encompasses the design, analysis, and engineering of spacecraft, ensuring their structural integrity, thermal management, and successful navigation. Applied physics principles also govern satellite communication systems, including signal propagation, modulation, and data encoding techniques, enabling global communication, weather forecasting, and precise navigation systems like GPS.
9. Information Technology: Applied physics underpins the advancements in information technology, revolutionizing computing and data storage. It drives the development of data storage technologies, including hard drives, solid-state drives, and magnetic tapes. Understanding the behavior of magnetic materials and applying applied physics principles has led to significant improvements in storage capacity, access speed, and reliability. Applied physics also contributes to emerging fields such as quantum computing, which exploits the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds, opening up new possibilities for solving computational challenges.
10. Nuclear Engineering: Applied physics plays a critical role in nuclear engineering, encompassing reactor design, radiation safety, and waste management. It facilitates the development of advanced nuclear reactor concepts and technologies. Romania, for example, has been actively involved in exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a flexible and scalable nuclear energy solution. SMRs offer several advantages, including enhanced safety features, flexibility in deployment, and the potential for integration with other energy systems. Additionally, Romania is part of the ALFRED (Advanced Lead Fast Reactor European Demonstrator) project, which aims to develop a lead-cooled fast reactor for sustainable nuclear energy production. These projects and initiatives in Romania highlight the country’s commitment to leveraging applied physics for advancing nuclear technologies.

These expanded arguments provide a more detailed overview of how applied physics influences various aspects of modern society, encompassing nanotechnologies and nuclear projects, including those in Romania. Applied physics continues to drive innovation, improve our understanding of the world, and address pressing challenges across diverse fields.