What is Theoretical physics: Definition and 543 Discussions

Theoretical physics is a branch of physics that employs mathematical models and abstractions of physical objects and systems to rationalize, explain and predict natural phenomena. This is in contrast to experimental physics, which uses experimental tools to probe these phenomena.
The advancement of science generally depends on the interplay between experimental studies and theory. In some cases, theoretical physics adheres to standards of mathematical rigour while giving little weight to experiments and observations. For example, while developing special relativity, Albert Einstein was concerned with the Lorentz transformation which left Maxwell's equations invariant, but was apparently uninterested in the Michelson–Morley experiment on Earth's drift through a luminiferous aether. Conversely, Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for explaining the photoelectric effect, previously an experimental result lacking a theoretical formulation.

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  1. E

    Theoretical Physics and technology advice

    I have a small dilemma, so I though I'd ask the geniuses at the physics forum! I dream of becoming of Theoretical Physicist but am recently wondering how much experience do Theoretical Physicists get from working with technology. My thought of a theoretical physicist is one who calculates...
  2. M

    What exactly does Theoretical Physics involve?

    What exactly does Theoretical Physics involve? Do you have to know how to write computer programs? Is it basically the Maths side of physics?
  3. N

    Errors by great minds in theoretical physics

    Hello, It is sometimes stated that the great minds of theoretical physics also made many mistakes, and were not afraid to do so, since you have to dare to make mistakes if you want to do some original thinking; but the errors are forgotten, and the good things are remembered. Now my question...
  4. binbagsss

    Programs How much maths in a theoretical physics degree?

    I am soon to apply for either theoretical physics, theoretical physics with maths, or joint honours - maths and physics year 1 and then transfer to theoretical physics. Only just finished A levels and unsure of the math content in a theoretical physics degree. At the moment I am more or less...
  5. J

    Suggested video lectures: theoretical physics

    Anyone have any suggestions for video lectures that go beyond the standard overview-for-the-layman or slightly-lower-level introductory courses? A post somewhere on here pointed me to Susskind's "Theoretical Physics: the Bare Minimum" on "iTunes U", which is sort of the prototype for what I'm...
  6. A

    Programs Shortest Path to a PhD in Math or Theoretical Physics?

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  7. C

    Graduate Studies in Theoretical Physics - Opinion Wanted

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  8. D

    Physics Choosing a Major & Minor for Theoretical Physics Research

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  9. T

    Programs Theoretical Physicist PhD: Can I Apply?

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  10. T

    Is it possible to pursue theoretical physics investigation if that's not my job?

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  11. Simfish

    Does anyone still bother to read papers by the giants of theoretical physics?

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  12. Q

    How to get help with theoretical physics?

    Im a college student with a good knowledge of basic physics. I am majoring in math (unfortunately) but I spend all of my spare time researching physics. I have a lot of ideas for physics inventions but no physics experts to talk with because I don't know any of the professors. When I email...
  13. K

    Schools Schools and theoretical physics

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  14. P

    Theoretical physics route (cambridge math3?)

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  15. T

    Programs Courses for Theoretical Physics PhD

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  16. R

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  17. L

    Courses Advanced Math for Graduate Theoretical Physics: What to Take?

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  18. T

    Physics What can you do with a B.Sc in Theoretical Physics?

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  19. T

    Programs Theoretical Physics vs Maths/Physics Undergrad Degree

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  20. S

    What Skills Are Essential for Success in Theoretical Physics?

    do you khow definintion of theoretical physics? in this branch of physics; what skills should we have?
  21. O

    Quick question about theoretical physics research

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  22. P

    Physics Can I Switch to Theoretical Physics? A PhD Student's Confusion

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  23. M

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  24. camipol89

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  25. R

    Theoretical Physics: Most Precise & Powerful Science

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  26. U

    Physics Mechanical Eng to Theoretical Physics

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  27. V

    Reviewing Mechanics: A Course of Theoretical Physics Volume 1

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  28. E

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  29. S

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  30. K

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  31. P

    Is my view of Theoretical physics romanticized?

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  32. R

    Physics Smart enough for theoretical physics?

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  33. Z

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  34. J

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  35. M

    Physics Theoretical Physics Career: Where to Start?

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  36. C

    Is Theoretical Physics Progress Stagnating?

    Is it just me or have we had a lack of discoveries in our theoretical physics endeavors for some long time now? e.g. No WIMPs or other 'dark matter' particles detected with all those detectors, no Higgs particle at the LHC, no LIGO gravitational waves detected, no proofs of String theory or...
  37. H

    Programs Explore Degrees for Theoretical Physics and Related Fields

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  38. A

    Theoretical Physics in the US?

    Hello I'm a spanish student, I'm finishing my 5th year in physics here in Madrid at UAM. I was planning on following the usual path here and start the Master in theoretical physics that we have here in Madrid at the same university, which is pretty good(2 year) and then it gives you access to a...
  39. M

    Engineering Career Guidance: Mechanical Engineer BS to Theoretical Physics

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  40. S

    Courses Choosing modules for theoretical Physics from Math Graduate Diploma course

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  41. C

    Studying Suggestions about books for Theoretical physics master course

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  42. Z

    Math needed for theoretical physics from scratch

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  43. Coelum

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  44. G

    Need some guidance here concerning theoretical physics.

    My name is Alex, and my dream is to become a theoretical physicist. I know that is probably very vague, so let me clear it up a bit. I love the universe. I think the universe is the most amazing place, just because of how weird it can be. I really can't get enough of it. I would spend hours...
  45. S

    Physics Theoretical Physics Degree: Starting College Guide

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  46. T

    Programs Chances of Theoretical Physics PhD?

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  47. M

    Courses Stay on Theoretical Physics course or switch to Maths & Physics?

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  48. marcus

    Asia Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics starts a new LQG group

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  49. R

    LMU München - theoretical physics

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  50. S

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    Hi, I'm a student currently going into my 4th and final year of an MSci in Physics with Theoretical Physics at Imperial College London. I'm currently averaging at a high 2.1, and hope to achieve a low 1st class degree (I won't go into the reasons for this slightly optimistic sounding prediction...
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