Physics Is Physics Right for Me? Career Exploration

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A discussion on pursuing a career in physics highlights the compatibility of a strong interest in physics and mathematics with success in theoretical physics, even for those who dislike chemistry. Participants note that while a foundational understanding of chemistry is required for physics degrees, theoretical physics is more aligned with pure mathematics and less dependent on chemistry knowledge. Concerns about chemistry often stem from its emphasis on memorization and numerous exceptions, which can be frustrating for students who thrive on understanding concepts. Ultimately, individuals can excel in theoretical physics without a strong background in chemistry, as personal experiences indicate that a lack of interest in chemistry does not hinder progress in physics.
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Hi, I am wondering if physics could be suited for me in terms of a career choice in the future. I absolutely love physics and I've always loved math. Ever since I was put into algebra ahead of all my peers I've always been one of the best math students with least amount of effort it seemed. But the only problem is I really dislike chemistry and I was wondering if I could still succeed in theoretical physics and/or quantum physics without being a chemistry wizz.

thanks for any responses
 
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The Physics will help your learning of Chemistry. You will still need one year of general lower division Chemistry coursework for any degree in Physics or in Engineering.

Physics or something like it is probably for you if you find yourself interested in Physics and good with Mathematics.
 
The question is *why* do you dislike chemistry. Your entry level chemistry course might focus more on memorization than the "why's and how's". If that's the case, that's in line with everything else you said, and yes you're cut out for physics.

Ehh, just read the last part of your post. sure, you could dislike chemistry nad other material subjects and do very well in theoretical physics.
 
Theoretical physics is completely disjoint from chemistry. It's actually closer to pure math than the physics taught in high school/undergrad curricula.
 
I know how you feel, Billy.
I love Physics and am very good at it, but I absolutely hate Chemistry and am generally very bad at it (bad position to be in for an AP chem student...)
If it helps, my dad explained to me that the reason I hate it so much is because there are more broken rules than rules, basically, the ones where you have to memorize both the rules and all the 10 thousand exceptions to the rule.

Anyway, hope that explanation helped and I wanted to point out that I hate chemistry.
 
I completely stopped my study of chemistry at age 16 and that has not retarded my development in physics an iota.
 
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