- #1
hangover
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can one without knowledge of chemistry(high school knowledge) and only having little experimental experience specialize in condensed matter physics?
Specialize in condensed matter physics
- Thread starter hangover
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the prerequisites for specializing in condensed matter physics, particularly the necessity of having a background in chemistry and the implications of lacking such knowledge. Participants explore the expectations for undergraduate education in physics and the role of chemistry in that context.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that a college-level introductory chemistry course is expected for physics undergraduates before specializing in condensed matter physics.
- Others express surprise at the requirement, noting their lack of chemistry courses in their academic path and questioning the necessity of this knowledge for specialization.
- A participant emphasizes that specialization in condensed matter physics typically occurs in graduate school, implying that an undergraduate degree in physics, which includes chemistry, is a prerequisite.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree that a background in chemistry is beneficial for specializing in condensed matter physics, but there is disagreement regarding the necessity of having taken formal chemistry courses prior to specialization.
Contextual Notes
Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of lacking chemistry knowledge and how it affects their ability to specialize in condensed matter physics.
- #2
Vanadium 50
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I would recommend that you take a chemistry class. It's expected of a physics undergrad (i.e. before one specializes in anything) to have taken at least a college level intro to chemistry class.
- #3
fluidistic
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I wasn't aware of this. I don't have any chemistry course in my whole course-load. Maybe those who specialize in condensed matter have some chemistry. If I don't, I guess I'll never have such a course even though it would be nice to take it.Vanadium 50 said:
- #4
Saladsamurai
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fluidistic said:
Maybe it shouldn't, but this kind of blows my mind
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hangover said:
What do you mean by "specialize in condensed matter physicis"? Such specialization typically occurs in graduate school, which means that you should have had an undergraduate degree in physics, and that implies that you have taken a year of chemistry.
Zz.
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Saladsamurai
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