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ChrisisC
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I'm only 15 but I'm thinking about what i need to be a successful physicist. I want to know what kind of strengths a good physicist should have and also what sets one physicist from the rest?
We should have. Actually Feynman had math as a hobby. Yet i don't know why but when we talk about physics I forget all about math. I never consider it something different. Its like a single package. Sorry OP but being good at math is also one of the most fundamental qualities of a physicist, especially if you are heading to theoretical physics.Nugatory said:Five posts in and no one has mentioned mathematical fluency?
How much does, "good at math" mean?jamalkoiyess said:We should have. Actually Feynman had math as a hobby. Yet i don't know why but when we talk about physics I forget all about math. I never consider it something different. Its like a single package. Sorry OP but being good at math is also one of the most fundamental qualities of a physicist, especially if you are heading to theoretical physics.
symbolipoint said:How much does, "good at math" mean?
Aufbauwerk 2045 said:Rather than make up my own list, I will give you some sources to look into to.
There is plenty of information about this and it's available in different ways from the greatest physicists. I will try to explain.
At least for theoretical physics, there is a web page on this topic at https://www.staff.science.uu.nl/~gadda001/goodtheorist/.
This is the most helpful resource I have found which is relevant to your question. This essay is by t'Hooft, a Nobel Laureate. He not only gives some general advice, but follows up with a complete course outline for learning physics including links to free online books!
I think it also helps to read some of the more popular works by the greatest scientists. For example, Einstein wrote some books at a popular level. You can certainly read these while still in high school. This helps you become more familiar with how the greatest minds operate. They were great and stood out from the crowd not only because of superior IQ but because of how they used their intelligence to best effect.
But there are many other great physicists besides Einstein. Beware of the "cult of personality." (Some physicists thought Einstein was on the wrong path in his later years and produced little of value during those years).
You can go down the list of all the Nobel laureates as well as the other great physicists, including Newton, Faraday, and Maxwell. Faraday is another good example of someone who wrote popular books on science.
It's also helpful to read something about the lives of the great scientists. Many of them faced great challenges. But they kept going anyway.
A scientist needs to learn how to think for himself or herself. Learn what you can, be respectful of people, but ultimately make up your own mind and follow your own instincts.
I hope this helps. Best wishes.
ChrisisC said:I'm only 15 but I'm thinking about what i need to be a successful physicist. I want to know what kind of strengths a good physicist should have and also what sets one physicist from the rest?
e.bar.goum said:Resilience.
Physics is really hard. Getting a career in physics is even harder. You've got to take failure well, be able to brush yourself off and keep going.ChrisisC said:how so?
I really believe those are very good points and I wish I could give one more "like"; but the forum will just turn that into a removal of the "like".Wminus said:In order of importance:
#1 An analytical AND creative mind.
#2 Being obsessively curious.
#3 Grit & a solid work ethic.
#4 Being open to new ideas and learning from others.
To become a physicist, one typically needs to have a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field such as mathematics or engineering. Some positions may require a master's or doctoral degree in physics.
Some important skills for success as a physicist include problem-solving, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and mathematical abilities. Strong communication and teamwork skills are also important for collaborating with other scientists and presenting research findings.
Mathematics is a fundamental aspect of physics, and it is essential for understanding and solving complex problems in the field. While not everyone may excel at math, a certain level of proficiency is necessary to become a physicist. However, with dedication and hard work, one can improve their math skills and become a successful physicist.
Some common qualities among successful physicists include curiosity, perseverance, creativity, and attention to detail. They also possess a strong passion for science and a desire to understand the natural world at a deeper level.
There is no specific personality type that guarantees success as a physicist. However, traits such as open-mindedness, persistence, and the ability to think outside the box can be beneficial in this field. Ultimately, a strong interest and determination to pursue a career in physics are more important than personality traits.