TFNR - Physical Systems
Here we distinguish Systems of Physical Forms from Physical Systems. It's a subtle but necessary distinction.
As seen, by Physical Form Systems we mean any collection, set, or network of Physical Forms in Interaction, which behaves as a unified whole. This term highlights the individual components (the physical entities) that form a system. It emphasizes the parts themselves, such as atoms, planets, or machines, and how they collectively contribute to forming the system.
The concept of Physical System is much broader and has a peculiar and specific functional and experiential connotation. This term refers broadly to systems governed by the laws of physics, focusing on the interactions and behaviors within the system. For example, an ecosystem or an electrical circuit qualifies as a physical system because they exhibit patterns or rules defined by physics.
The difference between "Systems of Physical Forms" and "physical systems", therefore, often lies in how the terms are used or emphasized. In essence, "Physical Systems" emphasizes the overarching system and its dynamics, while "Systems of Physical Forms" might zoom in on the physical constituents themselves. The concept of Systems of Physical Forms is more focused on the ontological aspect, while that of Physical System on the phenomenological and dynamic aspects.
Returning to the theme of this section, we can say that Physical Systems are systems composed of Physical Matter and Energy (Information, therefore, more or less elementary, more or less structured), governed by the laws of physics.
Physical Systems can include objects classifiable as Information Structures (Waves, Vortices, Interactions) and as Physical Forms and Systems of Physical Forms. In a broader sense, we can imagine that Physical Systems can also include Cognitive Forms, for example the formulated hypotheses, the theories that try to describe themselves, the predictive models of their Properties and Behaviors, and so on.
Physical Systems includes really small and not directly observable objects, such as particles, waves, etc. and/or tangible entities such as mechanical devices, electrical circuits, fluid dynamics, or even planetary bodies interacting within the universe. They are studied to understand the behavior and interaction of physical sub-systems under different conditions.
Among the Physical Systems we find Systems that can be described through the theories and concepts of classical and relativistic physics, and others that for their description require (also) Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Field Theory.
More precisely, we can imagine a physical system as a collection of physical objects or entities that interact within a defined structure to perform specific functions. These systems can range from simple mechanical setups like gears and levers to complex ecosystems or technological networks. They often involve the transformation of matter, energy, or information, producing outcomes that individual components alone cannot achieve.
In theoretical physics, a physical system refers to a model or abstraction of physical entities and their interactions, described mathematically to explain and predict natural phenomena. These systems can range from simple setups like harmonic oscillators to complex constructs such as quantum fields or spacetime geometries. Theoretical physicists use these models to explore fundamental laws of the universe, often bridging the gap between experimental observations and mathematical rigor.
Links to the tables of contents of TFNR Paper
