Physics + pure math or applied math?

[bambi13]

physics + pure math or applied math?

Hi.
What is the most ideal combination of majors?

1) theoretical physics + pure math
OR
2) theo. physics + applied math??

thanks a lot.

 

[TimNguyen]

Physics and applied math match up very well, as in they're both similar.
The mathematics needed for an ideal physics major comes mainly from applied mathematics.

 

[Brad Barker]

Physics and applied math match up very well, as in they're both similar.
The mathematics needed for an ideal physics major comes mainly from applied mathematics.

i'd agree with this.



piggyback -- when does one learn some of the pure math (topology, lie algebra?, etc.) involved with certain aspects of theoretical physics?

 

[NeutronStar]

Hi.
What is the most ideal combination of majors?

1) theoretical physics + pure math
OR
2) theo. physics + applied math??

thanks a lot.

I'd say applied math if you are an undergrad going for a physics degree.

I'd say pure math if you are a graduate moving on to post graduate work.

Just my thoughts.