How Does Physics Enhance Computer Science, Particularly in Quantum Computing?

AI Thread Summary
Physics offers valuable skills for computer science, particularly in problem-solving and mathematical reasoning, which are applicable across various fields. The training in physics fosters a strong understanding of data's relationship with the real world, enhancing practical applications in areas like modeling and simulation. However, outside of these specific contexts, the direct relevance of physics may diminish in everyday computer science roles. While some professionals, such as software developers in finance, may not frequently encounter physics concepts, those with a passion for the subject find it enriching regardless of its direct application. Quantum computing, a burgeoning field, is primarily explored within physics departments, suggesting that foundational knowledge in physics can be beneficial for those interested in this area.
aleemudasir
Messages
68
Reaction score
0
How far can Physics help me in Computer Science, and in which fields?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
In all fields and as far as you want it to.

At the least direct, the practical problem solving experience of physics training is invaluable.
More directly, the mathematics-as-a-tool/language POV will help everywhere too.
Most directly - anything involving the interrelation of data and the real world.
It's wide open because physics is so general.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
It can help you in the very tangible ways Simon listed, but outside of core math/problem solving skills, it won't offer much direct help in most industries. Unless you get into work with modeling and simulation or other similar research and need to have a grasp on how the universe works, physics is sort of outside the realm of day-to-day activities.

I speak as a software developer who got a minor in physics for fun. If you love physics, definitely do it. It's worth it even if you don't directly use it every day. I work in the banking/finance industry, and, not surprisingly, quantum physics doesn't come up too often.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
What about quantum-computing?
 
aleemudasir said:
What about quantum-computing?

Quantum computing is way more commonly done in physics departments rather than comp sci departments and it is not fully developed so any of the comp sci you need to learn can be learned in the physics department.
 
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...
Back
Top