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That’s because there are many different types of physicists, which are described in the following paragraphs. • Particle physicists deal with atoms and what they are made of. • Astrophysicists study stars, planets, and other celestial bodies and the rules that govern their movement. Astrophysics is a subfield of astronomy, but today, the names “astrophysics” and “astronomy” are often used interchangeably. • Theoretical physicists use math to solve problems based on things we cannot prove yet. • Atomic, optical, and molecular physicists study atoms, electrons, simple molecules, and light, as well as the interactions between them. • Condensed matter and materials physicists investigate the physical properties of matter in molecules, nanostructures, or novel compounds. They study things such as sensors, nanomachines, and superconductivity.

A career in physics allows you to work with both your mind and your hands.

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