Structure of the analytical physical theories

Abstract

We present an analysis of the first analytical physical theories developed after the introduction of calculus. The underlying framework of these theories is the differential and integral calculus in the form developed by Leibniz. We point out the fundamental laws, or principles, or postulates upon which they are founded, and show some results or laws that are derived from them. We point out the main concepts of the theories drawing attention to the primitive or primary concepts, which are those undefinable. The theories that we describe are those that emerged just after the introduction of calculus, from Varignon to Navier. The areas of these theories include mechanics, electricity, magnetism, light, propagation of sound and propagation of heat.

Keywords

• Physical theories
• analytical theories
• analytical mechanics