Research Guides: Physics: Dictionaries

What is a dictionary?

Subject-specific dictionaries are reference books that contain an alphabetical list of words with information about them that is specific to that particular subject and not necessarily generic like you would find in an average, everyday dictionary.

Dictionaries in the Library Collection

Facts on File Dictionary of Physics, 4th ed. by Daintith, John
Call Number: REF QC5 .F34 2005
Publication Date: 2005
Presents definitions of the major terminology of modern physics, along with concise explanations of the fundamental concepts and theories of the field.

Online Dictionaries

Basics of NMR: Glossary
Dr. Joseph P. Hornak, Center for Imaging Science, Rochester Institute of Technology
Glossary of Frequently Misused or Misunderstood Physics Terms and Concepts
Donald E. Simanek, Lock Haven University
Glossary of Nuclear Science Terms
Nuclear Science Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Particle Adventure Glossary
Particle Data Group, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
HyperPhysics
Department of Physics and Astronomy, Georgia State University
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HyperPhysics is an exploration environment for concepts in physics which employs concept maps and other linking strategies to facilitate smooth navigation. For the most part, it is laid out in small segments or "cards", true to its original development in HyperCard. The entire environment is interconnected with thousands of links, reminiscent of a neural network. The bottom bar of each card contains links to major concept maps for divisions of physics, plus a "go back" feature to allow you to retrace the path of an exploration. The side bar contains a link to the extensive Index, which itself is composed of active links. That sidebar also contains links to relevant concept maps. The rationale for such concept maps is to provide a visual survey of conceptually connected material, and it is hoped that they will provide some answers to the question "where do I go from here?". Whether you need further explanation of concepts which underly the current card content, or are seeking applications which go beyond it, the concept map may help you find the desired information.