Continuum physics and acoustics, an option within the physics major, provides majors with an understanding of matter as a continuous medium and the waves that propagate it. While the primary thrust of recent research in physics has focused on a particle understanding of matter, there has also been significant development of ideas related to an understanding of matter as a continuous medium. Since radiation fields and waves are also continuous phenomena, the interplay of continuous media and the waves that propagate within them create a fascinating and challenging field of endeavor.<br><br>Physics is the most basic natural science and considers physical systems ranging in size from nuclei, to atoms, to the cosmos. It is an extremely broad field, with many sub-fields. Understanding the forces and laws that underpin the interactions of matter and energy form a major part of the discipline. Applying this understanding to other sciences and technology offers numerous opportunities for the well-trained physicist.