In addition to exploring the wonders of the universe, physicists can be found on Wall Street making financial models and forecasts. Some are to be found in the upper ranks of management in large corporations, while others are computer analysts and programmers. The broad foundation in critical thinking and problem solving provided by a physics education is a highly valued asset in our modern, technological world. The domain of physics extends from quarks to the known universe, and includes everything in between. As such, physics is a process of understanding, a way of seeing the world.
Physicists usually label themselves as either experimentalists or theorists.
Experimental physicists study nature by poking and prodding it, and measuring a response. Experimental physicists build equipment to study the properties of particles, atoms, solids, liquids, gases and plasmas. Theoretical physicists produce mathematical models of phenomena and processes in nature. The models that theorists use must be tested by experiment before being accepted. Albert Einstein was one of the more notable theoretical physicists.