Explaining why the best work of scientists is often produced in early adulthood while that of novelists often originates during middle adulthood requires a distinction between

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The best work of scientists is often produced in early adulthood because it typically involves tasks that require fluid intelligence, such as developing new theories and conducting experimental research. Fluid intelligence, which is characterized by the ability to solve novel problems and think abstractly, typically peaks in early adulthood and then declines over time. In contrast, the best work of novelists often originates during middle adulthood because it typically involves tasks that require crystallized intelligence, such as drawing on accumulated knowledge and experience to create complex characters and narratives. Crystallized intelligence, which is characterized by the ability to use one's knowledge and experience, tends to increase with age and experience.

Explaining Why the Best Work of Scientists Is Often Produced