Are physics and fundamental chemistry only necessary to become a physicist?

[Orion73]

Does the understanding and application of physics and fundamental chemistry is only required to be physicist? Or you have to be be equally apt in chemistry??

 

[Dr. Courtney]

It depends on the kind of physicist. In atomic-molecular-and optical (AMO) physics, there is a lot of chemistry. Lots of chemistry in materials and some branches of astrophysics.

But no, most physicists are not equally adept in chemistry as they are in physics. I'm trained as an AMO physicist, and while chemistry is important in this branch, I am not nearly as good in chemistry as real chemists are at chemistry or as I am in physics.

 

[symbolipoint]

Does the understanding and application of physics and fundamental chemistry is only required to be physicist? Or you have to be be equally apt in chemistry??

Something is wrong with the logic of the question or in the usage of words.

Maybe this helps.
Physics does not rely too much on Chemistry; Chemistry certainly relies on much of Physics for understanding but focuses on Chemistry, reactions, identity of materials, and Chemistry & Physics are definitely related.

 

[symbolipoint]

Does the understanding and application of physics and fundamental chemistry is only required to be physicist? Or you have to be be equally apt in chemistry??

Furthermore,
Some overlap happens between Chemistry and Physics. Included, physical science students aiming for a degree usually are required one year of General Chemistry. On the other hand, Chemistry students aiming for a degree are required to study one and a half years (three semesters) of "Fundamental Physics" usually being a series of courses in Mechanics & Kinematics (sometimes including other things), Electricity & Magnetism, and "Modern Physics".

Two of the many areas linking Chem with Phys are, Thermodynamics, and Spectroscopy(Spectrohotometry). So many other areas, too.

 

[jim mcnamara]

Do not overlook Mathematics. Without that, nothing mentioned above will ever come to be.

 

[symbolipoint]

Do not overlook Mathematics. Without that, nothing mentioned above will ever come to be.

All the sciences use Mathematics. The more, the better.

 

[bhobba]

Do not overlook Mathematics. Without that, nothing mentioned above will ever come to be.

There are many flavors of physicist - experimental physicist, mathematical physicist, theoretical physicist and probably others as well. They all require a good knowledge of math so much so, some, including me, believe its a good idea to do a double degree in math and physics. I would classify myself as a mathematical physicist, although some have suggested due to my reverence for the book Landau - Mechanics theoretical physicist would be a better label. I can only suggest you get a hold of Landau - Mechanics and read it. If you are in awed rapture as I was then theoretical/mathematical physics is likely your bag. Regarding chemistry I do believe all physicists should do a course in physical/quantum chemistry - but no need to get carried away with it unless of course it grabs you in which case that is likely your thing.

Thanks
Bill

 

[Marisa5]

Regarding chemistry I do believe all physicists should do a course in physical/quantum chemistry - but no need to get carried away with it unless of course it grabs you in which case that is likely your thing.

If you decide to take physical chemistry, do not take it lightly. It's a class where you should expect at least a couple all-nighters during the quarter to study for exams. The labs are fantastic if you get a chance to take them.

 

[PCJJSBS]

I work in Material Physics. Most people at my work are from the chemistry field.
A few of us are from physics.
We are basically useless in their area, and them ours. But it is much easier for us to learn their part than it is the other way around.

A good balance is great in this field, but I wouldn't say it is too terribly necessary for most other fields.

 

[bhobba]

If you decide to take physical chemistry, do not take it lightly. It's a class where you should expect at least a couple all-nighters during the quarter to study for exams. The labs are fantastic if you get a chance to take them.

Very true. It is not easy. But worthwhile. And who knows Physical Chemistry may turn out to be your thing.

Thanks
Bill