What's the difference between Applied Physics and Physics?

[DrummingAtom]

From a job and degree standpoint. I know you're applying one and not the other. So is an Applied Physicist just an Engineer?

To take this information further, what would be the breakdown of personnel at something like CERN? What do the Theoretical Physicists, Experimental Physicists, Applied Physicists, and Engineers do? Or any other position I didn't mention. Thanks.

 

[mgb_phys]

I don't think applied physics is a very usefull term.
Is experimental physics applied if the experiement is CERN?
Is theoretical physics applied if the theory is about fluid flow over a wing?

It's most often used in Uni courses descriptions where it might mean you do a couple of courses from E eng, or have an industrial placement.

 

[Mene]

The difference between Applied Physics and Physics lies in their focus and approach. Physics is a broad field that studies the fundamental principles and laws governing the natural world, while Applied Physics applies these principles to solve practical problems and develop new technologies.

In terms of job opportunities and degrees, a degree in Physics typically prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, or industry, while a degree in Applied Physics may lead to careers in fields such as engineering, materials science, or technology development.

An Applied Physicist is not necessarily just an engineer. While engineers may use principles of Applied Physics in their work, Applied Physicists have a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and can apply them to a wider range of problems.

At CERN, there is a diverse team of personnel with different roles and responsibilities. Theoretical Physicists use mathematical models and theories to explain and predict the behavior of particles and the universe. Experimental Physicists design and conduct experiments to test these theories and gather data. Applied Physicists may work on developing new technologies and applications for the data collected by Experimental Physicists. Engineers play a crucial role in designing and building the complex equipment and systems used in experiments. Other positions at CERN may include data analysts, computer scientists, technicians, and support staff. Each of these roles plays a vital part in the overall mission of CERN to advance our understanding of the universe.