Recent content by timothyc

I'm planning on taking a bunch of math courses in next year's Fall semester. Here are courses I'm looking into: PDE Real Analysis Abstract Algebra Differential Geometry There's also Complex Analysis offered in the Spring semester. I know PDE is used extensively in physics, but I'm...

Besides obtaining an outstanding GPA, what are the major things that graduate schools look for in candidates? Any input is greatly appreciated, but please do try to provide a bit more detail. Thanks!

Thanks for the input guys, greatly appreciated. Seems like the norm to PhD in the US is going directly. So would it be weird/inappropriate for me to get a master's in another country first before applying for PhD in the U.S?

I'm currently in my second (of three) year of undergrad physics. My goal is to obtaining a doctorate so I can do research in physics. I'm wondering, then, whether I should get a master's degree first or if I should get my doctorate directly? I'm assuming going directly doctorate is a harder...

What does "state" mean in quantum mechanics? I'm currently self learning quantum mechanics from Griffith's book. I'm in the first chapter and he's using phrases like "a particle in state Ψ", but he doesn't explain what it means by "state". Can someone please enlighten me?

Thanks, I'll check out the second edition of Marion first. Perhaps Landau and Lifgarbagez can wait. Over 200 views and only one reply, can't say how much I appreciate your help.

What would be your go-to textbook for Classical Mechanics at the undergraduate level? It must also cover the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation. My school uses "Analytical Mechanics" by Fowles & Cassiday but I find it not very complete and doesn't cover all topics. I've also read parts...

Thanks guys for your responses. I've been pretty busy lately and forgot about checking back. Thanks for the very thorough reply. I'm wondering, however, if being average will get me to graduate school. I think getting average scores in my UG studies will get me a upper second honors at...

I started having an interest in physics when I was in grade 10 (or Year 11 for the UK). Back then, I considered myself "gifted" in physics. I spent time reading books on popular physics, and spent very little time studying at all for the school's physics materials, but I would always get top...