Expert: Daniel Mazur - 7/25/2007

Question
Considering one has high interest in a field of theoretical physics, can success be attainable even though this person might not have acquired full aptitude? Also, what are some specific topics that are studied under this field? Are topics such as wormholes and singularity included?

Answer
Hello Margaret,

in my knowledge, wormholes are included in theoretical astrophysics as an odd, yet possible arrangement of space-time. What you refer to as "singularity" has more meanings than one, in astrophysics it would mean black holes and those are certainly studied theoretically (string theory).

All branches of physics need some theory, so there is a vast solid-state theory, biophysics theory, quantum chemistry theory... As theory is only one, the above are some fields of specialization of the theorists, while it frequently happens that the same mathematical apparatus is used several of them to tackle different problems. Specific topics: In astrophysics a lot of work has been done to find theory to explain the dynamics of the expansion of the Universe. In solid state physics there is an ongoing quest for microscopic explanation of high-temperature superconductivity. Particle physics is trying to make some sense of the accelerator and collider data to learn about the laws governing matter in the smallest scale. And many more.

I am not a theorist, but I think that success can be attained without full aptitude, but this depends on your personal definition of "success" and "full aptitude". There are bits of aptitude that are essential, and others that one can cheat on a bit. If you lack one of the latter, you can still be successful in fields that don't use any results of that deficient skill. For example, a solid state theorist can do perfectly fine without the superstrings. However, full aptitude in the extent of an average university curriculum (up to Ph.D.) is desirable. It gives a better *chance* of success if you have more skills in your profession.

Take care,
Daniel