Can someone please describe physics after year 1?

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The discussion revolves around the progression of physics education beyond the introductory level, specifically focusing on the nature of intermediate and upper-level courses in a physics degree program.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transition from problem-solving in introductory courses to potentially more theoretical and mathematically intensive upper-level courses. There is curiosity about the nature of challenges faced in advanced classes and whether they involve fewer problems but greater complexity.

Discussion Status

Some participants have shared insights about the increasing difficulty of problems in higher-level courses, noting that while there may be fewer problems, they require more time and effort to solve. Others have emphasized the importance of specific concepts like the harmonic oscillator and symmetry, suggesting a shift in focus as one progresses through the curriculum.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be an underlying assumption that the initial years are heavily focused on problem-solving skills, which may change in later years. Participants are also referencing specific concepts that may be foundational for advanced studies.

torquemada
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So in the first 2 or 3 semesters of intro physics i know you're grinding into the system of thinking in terms of physics and learning how to approach a problem - to that end you do hundreds of thought provoking examples to hone your skills so that you don't just plug and chug but actually learn how to reason through any word problem thrown at you. That being said, is a physics degree 4 years of that? Or are intermediate and upper level courses more focused on theory and proofs and lots of math too I'm sure, but not a grind-like approach involving tons of problems? The more detail the better I'm looking for a comprehensive description if possible. Thx :)
 
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Generally as you move up in your classes you have less problems, but they become much more difficult. Prepare to spend hours haranguing over that one problem that still eludes you after solving the other 5 in the set in "only" 10 hours. And that's just for one class.
 
do yourself a favor and learn everything about the harmonic oscillator now
 
kreil said:
do yourself a favor and learn everything about the harmonic oscillator now

Lawls.

Oh wait, that's the most true statement I've ever heard in my life.

And learn what symmetry means.
 
And don't forget Lorentz invariance the first commandment of any theory although that comes into symmetry
 

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