The Meanings of Physics Equations in the Context of the Interplay between Physics and Mathematics

Abstract

In this chapter the relationship between physics and mathematics in physics education is discussed by focusing on the meaning of physics equations and their role in the interplay between physics and mathematics. We start with the issue of differentiating mathematics equations from physics equations, and then discuss the elaboration of the meaning of physics equations in terms of verbalization. In addition, the meaning of physics equations is discussed employing the frameworks of ontological categories of physics concepts and the epistemological status of scientific knowledge. Then we discuss the interplay between physics and mathematics through three perspectives: 1) mathematization as modeling, 2) mathematization as blending, and 3) epistemological belief concerning mathematization. Finally, empirical studies concerning students' and teachers' comprehension of mathematization are reviewed.