Phenomenon

For other uses, see Phenomena (disambiguation).

The combustion of this match is an observable occurrence, or event, and therefore a phenomenon.

A phenomenon (Greek: φαινόμενoν, pl. phenomena φαινόμενα) is any occurrence that is observable. New Oxford American Dictionary (2nd ed.)

Use in physics

In physics phenomena are the subject of all observation. A phenomenon may be a feature of matter, energy, or spacetime. For example, Isaac Newton made observations of the phenomenon of the moon\'s orbit. Additionally, Galileo Galilei made observations of pendulum related phenomena. Jeremy Bernstein, A Theory for Everything, Copernicus, An imprint of Springer-Verlag, New York, 1996, hardback, ISBN 0-387-94700-0

Use in philosophy

In philosophy, the use of the word phenomenon differs from other uses in that it refers to perceived events. Phenomena may be perceived through a person\'s senses or with their mind.

See also

• Phenomena (philosophy)
• Physical system
• Observation
• Physicalism
• Noumenon

References

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