The "science of matter" refers to the study of physical substances, their properties and their interactions. Synonyms for this term include physical science, material science, natural philosophy, and physics. Physical science refers to any natural science that involves the study of non-living systems, while material science focuses specifically on the materials used in various industries. Natural philosophy is an older term that encompasses the study of the natural world, including matter, energy, and motion. Physics is a more specific term that refers to the study of matter and its interactions with energy and forces. Regardless of the synonym used, the science of matter provides a fundamental foundation for numerous disciplines, including engineering, chemistry, and material science.