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Applied physics is the application of physics to solve scientific or engineering problems. It is the combination of "pure" physics with engineering.

"Pure" physics is the study of the basic physical properties of matter and all that derives from it. "Applied" physics is distinguished from "pure" physics by a subtle combination of factors, such as the motivation and attitude of researchers and the nature of the relationship to the technology or science that may be affected by the work. It differs from engineering in that applied physicists may not be designing something in particular, but instead use physics or conduct research in physics with the aim of producing a practical result. Applied physics is rooted in the fundamental truths and basic concepts of the physical sciences, however research in applied physics is either directly concerned with solving an engineering problem or concerned with the potential practical and technological applications of the research. Applied physics also describes the application of physics in other areas of science and high technology.

Applied physics is a sub-field of applied science. Applied science is the use of the scientific method and conclusions obtained from the scientific method to produce practical results.^[1] There are many branches of applied physics, the largest of which are astrophysics, instrumentation, medical physics, and nuclear physics.