Physics
Physics is the scientific study of matter, energy, and the interactions between them. It plays a critical role in understanding the fundamental laws of nature and has applications in technology, engineering, medicine, and more.
2. Subfields of Physics
Theoretical Physics: Involves developing mathematical models and theories to explain physical phenomena.
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Experimental Physics: Focuses on conducting experiments to test physical theories and discover new phenomena.
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Applied Physics: Uses physics principles to solve practical problems, often in technology or engineering.
3. Bifurcation of Subfields
Theoretical Physics:
Quantum Mechanics: Studies the behavior of matter and energy on the atomic and subatomic level.
Relativity: Focuses on the behavior of objects in space and time, especially at high speeds or in strong gravitational fields.
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Experimental Physics:
Particle Physics: Investigates the fundamental particles that make up matter and the forces governing their interactions.
Condensed Matter Physics: Explores the properties of solid and liquid matter, including semiconductors and superconductors.
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Applied Physics:
Medical Physics: Applies physics concepts in healthcare, especially in imaging and radiation therapy.
Engineering Physics: Uses physics principles in the development of new technologies and engineering solutions.
4. Career Options
Theoretical Physics:
Quantum Physicist: Develops theories and models to understand the behavior of particles at the quantum level.
Astrophysicist: Studies the physical properties of celestial objects and the universe.
Further readings
What Career Opportunities Exist in Quantum Physics? by Physics Forum
Link - https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/what-career-opportunities-exist-in-quantum-physics.128879/#google_vignette
Careers in Quantum Science and Technology by Trinity CVollege Dublin
Link - https://www.tcd.ie/physics/quantumtech/careers/
How to prepare for a career in the emerging quantum-technology industry by
Link - https://physicsworld.com/a/how-to-prepare-for-a-career-in-the-emerging-quantum-technology-industry/
Link - https://aas.org/careers/career-in-astronomy
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Youtube Link-
Astrophysicist
1) https://youtu.be/vGw0l8qLlOA?si=rfx3UC3_ZHfuVBAE
2) https://youtu.be/iP9EHs3uYps?si=nUqyGG1d6LqjR7Tv
Experimental Physics:
Particle Physicist: Conducts experiments to discover and understand the fundamental particles of the universe.
Materials Scientist: Researches the properties of materials, often leading to innovations in technology.
Further readings :
1) Particle Physics job by Physics Today
Link - https://www.aip.org/jobs/profiles/particle-physics-jobs
2)Careers in Materials
Link - https://www.aip.org/jobs/profiles/careers-materials
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YOUTUBE LINKS
Applied Physics:
Medical Physicist: Works in hospitals or research institutions, specializing in medical imaging or radiation therapy.
Engineering Physicist: Develops advanced technologies, including electronics, nanotechnology, and renewable energy solutions.
5. Required Qualifications
Quantum Physicist: A degree in Physics, followed by a master's or PhD in Quantum Mechanics or related fields.
Particle Physicist: Requires a bachelor's degree in Physics and a PhD in Particle Physics, often involving work with large research facilities like CERN.
Medical Physicist: A degree in Physics, with a specialization in Medical Physics or Radiation Physics. Certification and clinical training are often required.
Engineering Physicist: A degree in Engineering Physics or Applied Physics, often followed by a master's in specialized areas like electronics or nanotechnology.
6. Expected Salaries
Quantum Physicist: ₹8-15 LPA, with higher potential in research and academia.
Particle Physicist: ₹6-12 LPA, with opportunities in research institutions and large-scale experiments.
Medical Physicist: ₹6-10 LPA, with growth potential in hospitals and medical research centers.
Engineering Physicist: ₹7-15 LPA, depending on industry and experience in technology development.
7. Companies and Institutions in the Field
CERN: The European Organization for Nuclear Research, focusing on particle physics research.
ISRO: The Indian Space Research Organisation, offering opportunities for astrophysicists and applied physicists in space exploration and technology.
DRDO: The Defence Research and Development Organisation, which employs physicists in the development of defense technologies.
GE Healthcare: A company employing medical physicists in the design of advanced medical imaging systems.
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