Are Linear Algebra and Discrete Math Essential for Aspiring Physicists?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the importance of specific math courses for physics majors, particularly Linear Algebra and Discrete Math. It emphasizes that Linear Algebra is essential for any field of science, including physics, and is often a requirement in physics programs. Participants note that while Discrete Math may be a prerequisite for Linear Algebra, its relevance to physics is limited, primarily involving basic logic and proof techniques. The consensus is that Linear Algebra is far more critical than Discrete Math for those pursuing advanced studies in physics, and students should prioritize it, especially if they plan to attend graduate school. The conversation also touches on the structure of math course prerequisites, indicating that some institutions may combine Linear Algebra and Differential Equations into a single course.
kuahji
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From experienece, are these two courses really important to someone looking to major in physics? I've read the "So you want to be a physicist" guide, but if I work with the book Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, will it be enough to make it through the upper level physics courses (as opposed to general physics)? I'm currently taking discrete math but I find the proofs extremely boring. Though I seem to do great with the applications in calc & calc based stats that I've taken. So I'm just curious as to if I should bother taking Linear Algebra if its just going to end up being more proofs. Also besides differential equations, are there any other math courses I should be looking to take that would be helpful down the line? I would eventually like to go to grad school as well, if that factors in at all.
 
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You definitely need to take Linear Algebra, and I'd be very surprised if your physics department left it as an option. (unless they combined linear alg. and diff. eq. into one class which a lot of big universities do)
 
Yeah, linear algebra is just so important for any field of science, whether it's engineering, physics or biology.
 
Linear algebra is a lot more important than discrete math. The only things from discrete math that I've ever needed in a physics derivation are basic logic and proof by induction.
 
discrete math is a class for computer scientists not physicists
 
Thanks for the replies. Looks like I'm taking Linear Algebra then ^_^.

The thing is with discrete, it is a prereq for linear. I'm guessing because of having to write proofs. Otherwise it seems to be a total waste of time... mathematical induction was done back in pre-calc at my school.
 
Discrete a pre req for Linear? Is this the first linear course, or some higher course? I only needed some calculus (which I didn't even use) for LA.
 

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