Aiding the Justice System

• When a crime occurs, scientists use the branch of physical science called Forensics to help solve the crime. Forensic science helps police officials recognize fingerprints, match DNA to a suspect and decipher evidence left at the crime scene. This branch of physical science helps ensure that police officers can identify, apprehend and charge criminal offenders. DNA evidence, which forensic scientists use to place a defendant at the scene of a crime, is highly valuable in a court case because it is usually indisputable.
  
  

Sound Quality

• When you listen to your favorite song through your stereo, you may not think about the research and time scientists put into creating such an interesting device. Scientists refer to the study of sound waves as "acoustic science." This form of physical science studies how sound waves travel and interact with other objects. Companies use acoustic science to determine how to create speakers that have a clear sound. An understanding of acoustic science also helps producers make clear audio tracks for movies and construction workers make an acoustically sound house that is quiet.
  
  

Enhancing Vision

• Optics is the branch of physical science that studies how light travels through objects and how eyes perceive the effects of light. The study of optics led to the invention of vision enhancing lenses. Using lenses to bend light can allow you to see objects from long distances or view microscopic objects. Bending light can also sharpen a person's vision, allowing someone with impaired sight to see better.
  
  

Energy Production

• The development and application of fuel is also a branch of physical science. When you need to discover a new energy source and how to tap into that energy, you are using a branch of physical science. You benefit from the discoveries of energy production any time you drive your car, turn on a light or turn on your hot water faucet. Some energy sources are more beneficial and stronger than others. Energy production scientists strive to find the most efficient and safe fuels to keep you living in comfort.