Whats an experimental Physicist?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the field of experimental physics, particularly focusing on what it entails, the nature of degrees in the field, and the differences between experimental and theoretical physics. Participants share their experiences and seek advice on pursuing a career in experimental physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to pursue a PhD in physics and seeks advice on becoming an experimental physicist.
  • Another participant humorously contrasts the roles of theoretical and experimental physicists, suggesting that experimental physicists deal with practical challenges in the lab.
  • A participant clarifies that during the first degree, students learn foundational knowledge without needing to choose a specialization.
  • Questions arise about whether advanced degrees in experimental physics involve hands-on experiments and research.
  • One participant asserts that there is no specific degree in experimental physics; rather, the nature of work is determined by the advisor and lab chosen during graduate studies.
  • Another participant acknowledges the importance of skills developed throughout the educational journey in physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the distinction between experimental and theoretical physics is significant, but there is no consensus on the nature of degrees specifically labeled as experimental physics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of how advanced degrees relate to hands-on experimental work.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the lack of clarity on how different fields within physics are categorized and the implications of choosing a particular advisor or lab for one's research focus.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in pursuing a career in physics, particularly those considering experimental physics as a specialization, may find this discussion insightful.

andy_adinolfi
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First off thank you all for all the advice that has been given. I am new to this forum but I've already received plenty of good advice.

So, I love physics. I have decided that that is what i want to earn degrees in (phd if I am cut out for it). My math knowledge is ok. grades in the high b's for calc 1-3 a's in physics 1-2. and I am about to graduate community college.

So I am thinking experimental physicist. I think i might like this.
Can anyone give me any input about the field? any and all advice will be accepted with great gratitude! Thank you.
 
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As the old joke goes, if you are a theoretical physicist, you spend your days looking for your sign error, and if you are an experimental physicist, you spend your days looking for the leak in your vacuum hose.

The terms "experimental physicist" and "theoretical physicist" both cover a *lot* of ground...
 
For the first degree you won't have to make a choice, you'll simply be learning the basics which everyone needs to know.

An experimental physicist actually runs experiments ("gets his hands dirty"). Theoretical physicists use pen and paper to reason about the universe. There are also computational physicists, which use simulations to explore physical phenomena.

--------
Assaf
http://www.physicallyincorrect.com/"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
well i love to get my hands dirty.

so are advanced degrees in experimental physics earned by doing experiments and experimental research?
 
There is no such thing as a degree in experimental physics. You either do physics or you don't. The actual nature of your work - pen and paper, test tube, lab, computer - isn't mentioned on your certificate, neither in your BSc nor in your MSc or PhD.

The nature of your work will be determined in your MSc/PhD, when you have to pick an advisor and a lab. If you pick something theoretical, you'll do theoretical work. If you pick studying surface materials, you'll probably spend your days in a sterile lab. If you study NMR, you'll spend your days next to a superconducting magnet, and so forth.

--------
Assaf
http://www.physicallyincorrect.com/"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
i see

so its all about skills you develop on the way.


Great site by the way
(physically incorrect)


-Andy
 

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