Videos On a Physicist Usual Work

In summary, a PBS show called "Nova" sometimes has shows about physicists working on experiments. This would not be a good show to watch if you want to learn about the work of a physicist, as the show would only show the boring parts of the job.
  • #1
T.O.E Dream
219
0
Does anybody know of any video's I can watch to learn what a physicist does?
 
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  • #2
Why do you need a video when you can just visit your local high school?
 
  • #3
You mean your local university.
 
  • #4
If you're in the USA, keep an eye on the PBS "Nova" TV program. It often has shows dealing with physics topics, showing physicists at work on some experiment or other.

Aha, PBS even has some of them on line:

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/programs/int_phys.html
 
  • #5
Problem is, there is no "usual" work for physicists, as there are a huge range of applications/research topics that can be their focus.
 
  • #6
Also, physics takes time so a "real time" show would not really tell you very much.
Chances are that it would just be be program showing someone staring at a computer, occasionally typing something and constantly drinking coffee.
For the viewer there wouldn't be any way of telling if the person was working on a deep problem in string theory, analyzing experimental data or posting on PF (when he really should be working:rolleyes:).
 
  • #7
f95toli said:
Also, physics takes time so a "real time" show would not really tell you very much.
Chances are that it would just be be program showing someone staring at a computer, occasionally typing something and constantly drinking coffee.
For the viewer there wouldn't be any way of telling if the person was working on a deep problem in string theory, analyzing experimental data or posting on PF (when he really should be working:rolleyes:).

Ha, I've worked at a particle accelerator and as cool as that is you'd still be bored to tears if you sat around and watched us work.
 
  • #8
I can't see why there couldn't be a 'reality TV' programme about physicists that could edit out the boring bits and still give a good impression. Maybe:

http://www.aps.org/publications/apsnews/200512/reality.cfm

Here's some to sift through, may give 'insights':

http://www.researchchannel.org/prog/subject.aspx?fID=572&pID=476 [Broken]

Might be better to read a book ' 'The Double Helix' by Crick and Watson gave a good impressions of the nuts and bolts of research. Also there's a book called "The Subjective Side of Science" by Mitroff, a sociologist who looked closely at the motivation and subjective experiences of NASA scientists.
 
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1. What does a physicist do in their usual work?

In their usual work, physicists conduct research, design and run experiments, analyze data, and develop theories to explain the laws of nature. They also collaborate with other scientists, present their findings at conferences, and publish their work in scientific journals.

2. What kind of education is required to become a physicist?

To become a physicist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field, such as mathematics or engineering. Many physicists also go on to earn a master's or doctoral degree in physics.

3. What skills are important for a physicist to have?

Some important skills for a physicist to have include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, mathematical and computational proficiency, attention to detail, and critical thinking abilities. Good communication and teamwork skills are also important, as physicists often work with other scientists and present their findings to a wider audience.

4. What are some common areas of research for physicists?

Physicists may specialize in a variety of areas, including astrophysics, particle physics, condensed matter physics, and nuclear physics. They may also work in interdisciplinary fields, such as biophysics, quantum computing, or materials science.

5. How do physicists contribute to society?

Physicists contribute to society in a variety of ways. Their research and discoveries help us understand the fundamental laws of nature, which can lead to technological advancements and innovations that improve our lives. They also play a critical role in solving global challenges, such as energy production and environmental sustainability.

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