Can ChatGPT solve physics problems?

Yes, physics is generally no problem for ChatGPT, although it can struggle with complexity or deriving theorems

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The idea of an AI that can solve physics problems may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but with the advent of advanced language models like ChatGPT, it’s becoming a reality. ChatGPT has been making headlines lately due to its impressive language processing abilities, but can it really solve physics problems? The answer is yes.

ChatGPT is not a calculator but rather a text generator that has a vast knowledge base about the world, including physics concepts. In the sections below, we have demonstrated ChatGPT’s ability to solve basic and complex physics problems.

ChatGPT and basic physics

ChatGPT has shown some promising results in answering physics problems that are conceptual in nature. When it comes to high-school-level physics, ChatGPT seems to be able to solve most school physics questions, including basic mathematical calculations. ChatGPT was able to answer most of the multiple-choice questions correctly in an introductory-level college astrophysics exam, scoring highly. It even provided explanations and reasoning behind its answers.

ChatGPT and complex physics problems

ChatGPT may struggle with complex calculations, deriving theorems, and evaluating difficult integrals that are required for at least college-level courses. ChatGPT can still assist physicists in their daily work. It can provide accurate information on complex physical properties and phenomena, such as the density and event horizon of black holes and the facilities of LIGO that measure gravitational waves.

ChatGPT can also answer higher-level questions related to the combination of general relativity and quantum physics, the differences between condensed-matter physics and solid-state physics, and the importance of understanding dark matter. It even responds to equations, correcting wrong forms of Newton’s and Ohm’s laws and identifying the equation for E=mc².

Alternatives to ChatGPT for physics problems

There are some great apps out there that can help you with solving difficult physics problems. Naturally the harder the quwestions get the more you’ll struggle to find software that is able to solve said problem, but here are some options that you could try out.

• PhyWiz – Physics Solver – Here we have a free app available from the Google Play Store PhyWiz is a fantastic tool for helping you with physics homework. It can provide broken down solutions which include multiple equations so you can learn how to tackle topics such as forces, kinematics, and even quantum physics.
• WolframAlpha – This is a website which is popular among mathematicians and physicists alike and is not only great for helping with calculations but also covers areas such as Society & Culture, Science & Technology, and Everyday Life

Experimenting with ChatGPTs physics-solving abilities

ChatGPT performed well in terms of problem-solving and provided an accurate response to the given prompt. The prompt provided to ChatGPT was as follows:

“A cannon launches missiles with the initial speed 𝑣0. Find the targeting angles 𝜃 to hit the target at the distance 𝑑 at the same height as the cannon”.

From the input, ChatGPT was able to parse the problem and apply its knowledge of physics formulas, such as the equations of projectile motion, to find a solution. The solution provided by ChatGPT was a detailed explanation of how to find the targeting angles using the given information, step-by-step.
It involved deriving equations for the projectile motion, determining the fall time of the missile, and using trigonometric identities to find the targeting angles.

Final word

ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for physicists in their daily work, providing accurate information, answering complex questions, and offering practical guidance. However, it is important to recognize its limitations and double-check any facts or equations it provides.

While ChatGPT may have limitations for solving all physics problems, it could still be a useful tool for educational purposes. The model’s ability to provide explanations and reasoning behind its answers could help students understand physics concepts better.

Can you use ChatGPT for physics?

Yes, but you should lower your expectations as it can struggle with advanced calculations.

Can AI solve complex physics problems?

Yes, quite easily, however, tools like ChatGPT can struggle sometimes.