Advanced Calculus is usable in physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance and utility of advanced calculus, specifically Loomis & Sternberg's Advanced Calculus, in the study of physics. Participants explore whether advanced calculus is necessary or beneficial compared to basic calculus, considering its mathematical formalism and applications in various fields of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a positive view of Loomis & Sternberg's Advanced Calculus, questioning its necessity for physics compared to basic calculus.
  • Another participant asserts that advanced calculus is needed for studying physics.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the book's formalism may be unnecessary for most, but could be enjoyable for those interested in a more formal understanding.
  • It is mentioned that a solid grasp of computational calculus and some background in matrix algebra and differential equations may suffice for general purposes, with advanced calculus being potentially enlightening.
  • One participant notes that while advanced calculus may not be necessary for most fields of physics, it could be useful for those pursuing very theoretical areas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the necessity of advanced calculus for physics, with some arguing it is essential while others believe it is not required for most applications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall necessity of the book for physics studies.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference varying levels of mathematical background and the potential applicability of advanced calculus in different physics fields, indicating a lack of consensus on its necessity.

Andreol263
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I was searching in amazon, where i found a book which have very good comments about him, called Loomis & Sternberg's Advanced Calculus, I'm already reading this book, and from what i seen, i liked :), this book will help me in physics, or will be desnecessary, that basic calculus is good??, and in the comments I've seen that this is like a brief introduction to real analysis and some of differential geometry, what you guys think?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If you're going to study physics, you're going to need advanced calculus.
 
Andreol263 said:
I was searching in amazon, where i found a book which have very good comments about him, called Loomis & Sternberg's Advanced Calculus, I'm already reading this book, and from what i seen, i liked :), this book will help me in physics, or will be desnecessary, that basic calculus is good??, and in the comments I've seen that this is like a brief introduction to real analysis and some of differential geometry, what you guys think?

The books formalism is probably unnecessary for most. That said if you enjoy reading it, go for it.
 
Skimming through the contents I'd say it's probably overly mathematical for general purposes. Once you have a solid grasp on the computational aspects of calculus (single, multivariable and vector), and some background in matrix algebra and differential equations it might be a somewhat enlightening read to understand thing from a more formal viewpoint.
 
Andreol263 said:
I was searching in amazon, where i found a book which have very good comments about him, called Loomis & Sternberg's Advanced Calculus, I'm already reading this book, and from what i seen, i liked :), this book will help me in physics, or will be desnecessary, that basic calculus is good??, and in the comments I've seen that this is like a brief introduction to real analysis and some of differential geometry, what you guys think?

It will not be necessary for most fields of physics. But if you're thinking of going into something very theoretical, it might be useful.
 

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