Some physicists work exclusively 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 of physicists work in inspection, testing, quality control and other production related jobs in industry. Geophysics is the study of the structure and dynamics of the Earth, with a strong appeal to all who are curious about the planet we live on and its companions in the solar system. Physical and geological insight, combined with mathematical analysis, are used to study the complexity of the Earth, for example the structure of hydrocarbon reservoirs or groundwater aquifers, or the nature of the forces underlying plate tectonics or the magnetic field. Geophysical methods are widely used in searching for hydrocarbon reservoirs, in studying the nature of earthquakes and volcanoes, and increasingly in archaeology, civil engineering and environmental problems such as pollution monitoring.