How do you know whether you will enjoy physics or not ?

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SUMMARY

High school students contemplating a physics major must recognize that university-level physics involves significant mathematical rigor, which may differ from their previous experiences with popular science. Those who enjoy engaging with physics through practical activities are likely to thrive in a physics program, while those who prefer passive consumption of physics content may struggle. To gauge interest in university physics, students should explore advanced physics textbooks and consider their affinity for mathematics. Ultimately, experiencing the subject firsthand is essential for making an informed decision about pursuing a physics degree.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of high school-level physics concepts
  • Basic proficiency in mathematics, including algebra and calculus
  • Familiarity with physics textbooks and academic resources
  • Awareness of the differences between popular science and academic physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore introductory physics textbooks to assess interest in advanced topics
  • Research university physics programs and their curriculum requirements
  • Practice advanced mathematics relevant to physics, such as calculus and differential equations
  • Engage in physics-related activities or experiments to gain practical experience
USEFUL FOR

High school students considering a physics major, educators advising students on academic paths, and individuals interested in transitioning to physics from other fields.

Zenkstorm
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I am a high school student whose life long ambition is to study physics and teach it in an enjoyable manner . I want people to understand that it's more than some complicated mathematical equations and problems , but when it comes to ' studying physics at Uni. ' I freak out :D . How do I know whether physics won't be boring with the advanced curriculum . I am used to reading about physics in my free time and I never get bored . will I lose that passion if I took this step ? Should I rethink my ideas ?
Thanks in advance
 
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If you like doing physics then just do it!
Now, lots of students coming from high schools are shocked when they find out what physics really is. The problem is that they have been watching lots of popular science TV shows or reading nontechnical books. Studying Physics involves doing lots of maths. And in order to understand different phenomena, one needs to study more complicated theories which means abstract maths classes are out of question. If you already now this then go ahead and I am sure you will enjoy the ride!
 
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To maybe just rephrase what Mr-R said: If you like actually doing physics (-related activities) then you probably will like physics. If you only like reading about physics and fantasizing about finding the world formula then you probably won't like physics.
 
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Timo said:
To maybe just rephrase what Mr-R said: If you like actually doing physics (-related activities) then you probably will like physics. If you only like reading about physics and fantasizing about finding the world formula then you probably won't like physics.

How can I find out ?
I am not well informed about advanced maths to read in real physics . I made my opinion on physics according to what I've learned at high school and what I read in articles , but not deep enough as a physics major student .
 
Zenkstorm said:
How can I find out ?
I am not well informed about advanced maths to read in real physics . I made my opinion on physics according to what I've learned at high school and what I read in articles , but not deep enough as a physics major student .

Have you tried going through physics textbooks on your own? (at the right level of course) That would give you an idea of how it might be like at Uni.
 
Why do you need to know if you like it before you try it? You wouldn't be the first person to discover you didn't like something and switch majors.
 
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You won't know until you try it! When I was in high school all I wanted to be was a chemist and I was super passionate... then I went to college and majored in physics. I took courses in chemistry in college and got some experience in research. Then, decided it wasn't for me. Hence the switch.

I hope your passion for physics continues! Good Luck!
 
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Zenkstorm said:
How can I find out [whether I like university physics]?
I am not well informed about advanced maths to read in real physics.
The idea of my statement was: if you enjoy math and physics now, then you probably will also enjoy the "more advanced" math and physics. If you don't like it now then don't put your hopes into more complicated things suddenly becoming more interesting just because they sound cool.
 
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