Math required for String/M-theory

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  • Thread starter Thread starter QuantumDefect
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the mathematical prerequisites for studying string and M-theory, including the types of math courses and concepts that may be beneficial for aspiring theoretical physicists. Participants share their insights on necessary mathematical foundations and personal experiences related to the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in the math required for string/M-theory and seeks advice on preparatory courses.
  • Another participant suggests that music might relate to the concepts of string theory, although they acknowledge a lack of formal equations.
  • A participant outlines that the math for string theory includes complex variables, higher algebra, and advanced calculus, noting that graduate students in theoretical physics typically cover these topics in their coursework.
  • One contributor recommends specific undergraduate preparation courses, including advanced calculus, differential equations, and complex variables.
  • A participant requests recommendations for resources to study higher algebra concepts relevant to string theory.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of certain mathematical topics for studying string theory, but there is no consensus on the specific courses or resources that should be prioritized.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention personal experiences and opinions regarding the relevance of certain mathematical concepts, which may not be universally applicable or accepted.

Who May Find This Useful

Aspiring theoretical physicists and students preparing for graduate studies in physics may find this discussion relevant as it outlines potential mathematical foundations for advanced studies in string and M-theory.

QuantumDefect
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Hi all, I was interested in seeing what math is required to study string/m-theory, all responses would be greatly appreciated.
 
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Music, is a good one. Other then that, I have my own little explanation, granted I don't know the equation form of it, I still try and program it. So far it seams to be working, but this is only an opinion. I don't think their is a proven way to make a string to study, other then the waves of music and noise. But hopefully the Divisional Continuum does, it seams very much like it. And if you surf through the "What is nothing?" discussion I have attached a program that does a single path, or string through this idea.
 
The math for string theory includes complex variables (analytic and meromorphic functions, riemann surfaces, conformal mapping), familiarity with higher algebra (rings, fields, algebras, ideals, representations), and very advanced calculus (beyond the usual advanced calculus and covering distributions, advance integral methods and the like). Grad students in theoretical physics get this with their course work.
 
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Thanks for the Replies! I was just wondering because I want to get into theoretical physics when I go to grad school in 3 years. I am very excited about it and I was just trying to prepare math courses that i should take in the next three years. Again, thank you for your replies. :smile:
 
Undergraduate prep courses: Advanced calc, ordinary diff eq, partial diff eq if offered, compex variables (or "analysis") if offered, modern algebra. Plus talk to your advisors and math professors.
 
Pat Schwarz > The Official String Theory Website > mathematics --->
http://superstringtheory.com/math/index.html
 
selfAdjoint said:
The math for string theory includes complex variables (analytic and meromorphic functions, riemann surfaces, conformal mapping), familiarity with higher algebra (rings, fields, algebras, ideals, representations)
Do you have any recommendations for a good study of "familiarity with higher algebra (rings, fields, algebras, ideals, representations)"?

Thanks
 

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