He researched ocean tides ( for which he won the Royal Medal ) . He published work in mechanics , physics , geology , astronomy , and economics . He researched ocean tides ( for which he won the Royal Medal ) , published work in the disciplines of mechanics , physics , geology , astronomy , and economics , while also finding the time to compose poetry , author a Bridgewater Treatise , translate the works of Goethe , and write sermons and theological tracts .