What to study in physics?

Question

I know a bit about physics, nothing much, but I am having trouble deciding what to study. Can anyone suggest a sort of guideline that covers the whole field?

Also, while I am asking this question. Can you do the same but just covering fundamental physics at a more detailed level?(fundamental particles, the forces, etc.)

Answer 1

It really depends on your mathematical background. Some of the most exotic and thus popular areas are impossible to fully appreciate without a clear understanding of their mathematical foundations. Much of the important formulations also requires a strong familiarity with Hamiltonian mechanics and/or group theory. If you have that, you can pick and choose easily. Without it, limitations to popularized explanations inhibit really understading and appreciating much of modern physics.

I am ashamed to admit I have not read a Scientific American issue in decades. However, it has always been an excellent source of what you are looking for. Peruse a few recent years at a local library to see what interests you. Perhaps you can follow up with the referenced articles, wiki pages (and their associated reference pages) dedicated to the topics. Good luck!

Answer 2

If you are really interested then join a university course, which would cover most of the topics that you should be knowing everything about physics. I would suggest you start reading two big volumes of Haliday & Resnik(once known as Bible of physics), Richard Feynman lectures, and the like for a more interesting phenomenon.

Answer 3

If you're preparing for an undergrad in physics, you'll most likely get a pretty thorough, comprehensive treatment on all of the basics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, experimental physics, modern physics, quantum physics, physical chemistry, etc. Through your first two or three semesters, you'll get a much better understanding on exactly where your personal interests are. Good luck!

Answer 4

Just read science and see what interests you. If you want a general foundation in physics, it's hard to beat a systematic class or textbook. Go to a library and look at some.