Locrian said:For instance (simple examples): A materials engineer may study the science of welding, something solid state physicists never (?) touch on. A solid state physicist may study the properties of novel high temperature superconductors, which is definitely out of bounds for most materials engineers.
While both solid state physicists and materials engineers study the properties and behavior of materials, their approaches and focuses differ. Solid state physicists primarily focus on the fundamental physical principles and theories related to the structure and properties of materials. On the other hand, materials engineers apply this knowledge to design, create, and improve materials for practical applications.
It is possible for a solid state physicist to work as a materials engineer and vice versa, as there is overlap in their knowledge and skills. However, they may have different areas of expertise and may require additional training or education to work in the other field.
Solid state physicists and materials engineers can study a wide range of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and semiconductors. However, their focus may differ depending on their specific research or industry.
Solid state physicists often conduct theoretical research and experiments to understand the fundamental principles of materials, while materials engineers may work on applied research and development projects to create new materials or improve existing ones for practical use in various industries such as electronics, aerospace, and healthcare.
The collaboration between solid state physicists and materials engineers allows for a more comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding and developing materials. The combination of fundamental knowledge and practical application leads to advancements in materials science and technology, leading to new and improved materials for various industries and applications.