What are the differences between physics and chemistry in teaching and thinking?

Two heads exchanging ideas on chemistry and physics

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Talking and teaching physics and chemistry

Physics and chemistry are distinct sciences, yet often students learn ‘science’ until their middle years at secondary school. In this article, the IOP’s Charles Tracy and RSC’s Izzi Monk explore whether chemists and physicists think differently and if there are any distinctions in their approach to work in the classroom and the lab. The article also discusses the importance of scientific skills in life – regardless of further study or job – such as scientific literacy and problem solving.

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