Can I take AP Physics 1 while concurrently taking Algebra 2?

AI Thread Summary
Taking AP Physics 1 while still learning Algebra 2 can be challenging, as the course typically requires a foundational understanding of calculus. Many schools recommend completing AP Calculus A/B before or concurrently with AP Physics to effectively handle the calculus-based concepts and equations presented in the course. In contrast, honors physics may only require algebra, making it more accessible for students not yet familiar with calculus. It is advisable to consult with a school's physics teacher or counselor for personalized guidance on course selection and readiness. Additionally, schools may offer different levels of AP Physics, including AP Physics 1, 2, and C, with C being more advanced and college-level.
Khoi Nguyen
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Next year, I want to take AP Physics 1 but I am worried that it would be confusing since I would still be learning about Algebra 2. Is it recommended to do this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Usually you should be taking AP Calculus A/B before or while you are taking AP Physics. In AP Physics, at least at my school, you learn how to derive equations using calculus, an use calculus to solve more difficult equations than you would cover in normal or honors Physics, which would be very difficult if you don't know calculus yet. In my honors physics class, not AP, we only used Algebra, so you would be fine for that. Your best bet would be to talk to your school's physics teacher and/or your counselor. That is just how it is at my school.
 
Thanks, I will take that into consideration and also, I will ask my counselor to clear things up. In my school, there's AP Physics 1, 2, and C which is college level physics.
 
I’ve been looking through the curricula of several European theoretical/mathematical physics MSc programs (ETH, Oxford, Cambridge, LMU, ENS Paris, etc), and I’m struck by how little emphasis they place on advanced fundamental courses. Nearly everything seems to be research-adjacent: string theory, quantum field theory, quantum optics, cosmology, soft matter physics, black hole radiation, etc. What I don’t see are the kinds of “second-pass fundamentals” I was hoping for, things like...
TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...

Similar threads

Replies
33
Views
2K
Replies
32
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
4K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
43
Views
7K
Back
Top