chroot said:Keep in mind, however, that only ~4% (yes, fewer than one in twenty) of physics undergraduates ever go on to actually study pure physics. The majority end up working with engineers, and a significant minority end up doing financial analysis.
quasar987 said:And the condensed-matter industry hires people from those 4% or from undergrads too?
chroot said:I no longer have the statistics nearby to show the 4% figure, but they were on a bulletin board in my university's physics department. People who work alongside engineers are no longer "pure" physicists, of course.
- Warren
joelperr said:With the LHC coming online soon, you can expect the number of particle physicists to jump up a few notches (read: orders of magnitude). It'll be like the 1960's all over again...
Physics is a branch of science that deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. It is a fundamental science that seeks to understand the laws and principles that govern the universe. Engineering, on the other hand, is the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes. In simpler terms, physics is the science behind how things work, while engineering is the practical application of that knowledge.
Yes, it is possible for someone to have knowledge and skills in both physics and engineering. Many professionals in the field of engineering have a strong background in physics, as it is the foundation of many engineering principles. However, it is important to note that the focus and approach of these two fields are different, so most individuals tend to specialize in one or the other.
Both physics and engineering require a strong foundation in math. However, the level and types of math used in each field may vary. Physics tends to use more theoretical and mathematical concepts, while engineering relies more on applied math and calculations to solve practical problems. So, in general, physics may require a higher level of math, but both fields are highly math-intensive.
Physics and engineering often work together in a complementary manner. The laws and principles of physics provide the foundation for many engineering designs and solutions. Engineers use their understanding of physics to design and build structures, machines, and systems that can solve real-world problems. On the other hand, physicists may use engineering techniques and technologies to conduct experiments and gather data to better understand the laws of physics.
Both physics and engineering offer a wide range of job opportunities. Physics graduates can find employment in research, academia, and various industries such as healthcare, energy, and technology. Similarly, engineers have a diverse range of career options in fields such as aerospace, civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. The demand for both physicists and engineers is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, so job prospects are good in both fields.