Most physicists work in research and development. Some do basic research to increase scientific knowledge. For example, they investigate the structure of the atom or the nature of gravity. Physicists who conduct applied research build upon the discoveries made through basic research and work to develop new devices, products, and processes. For instance, basic research in solid-state physics led to the development of transistors and then to the integrated circuits used in computers.
Physicists also design research equipment.
This equipment often has additional unanticipated uses. A small number work in inspection, testing, quality control, and other production-related jobs in industry. Much physics research is done in small or medium-size laboratories. However, experiments in plasma, nuclear, high energy, and some other areas of physics require extremely large, expensive equipment such as particle accelerators. Physicists in these subfields often work in large teams.