Applied physics is simply a term for performing physics research that is combining pure physics together with engineering. Pure physics is about studying basic physical properties of matter and everything that derives from it similar to:

• Motion and;
• Energy

Applied physics is using the same principle for investigations in solving technological problems.

Pure and Applied Physics

It might be simple to identify research as pure or applied in times where there’s direct practical application. For example, the special theory of relativity by Einstein is pure physics as well as designing the fiber optic technology.

The difference between the two might be a bit blurry though. Undoubtedly, there’s continuum of research topics together with spectrum between pure and applied. But in order to be considered as “applied”, the research ought to be at least concerned with either practical or technological applications of the research being made.

Applied Physics

Research in applied physics might be focused in establishing instrumentation for scientific research. Without a doubt, most of the instrumentation that is used by physic researchers are quite advanced that it is customized by researchers themselves.

High-energy physicists who work on particle accelerators such as European Organization for Nuclear Research sets a great example of physicists who are building their own instrumentation.