Guide to math needed to study physics

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges of mastering mathematics for theoretical physics study. Participants emphasize the importance of a solid mathematical foundation, particularly in calculus. The typical undergraduate physics curriculum includes Calculus 1, 2, and 3, along with Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, but additional courses may be beneficial for deeper understanding. Calculus 1 covers limits, differentiation, and basic integration; Calculus 2 focuses on techniques of integration and series; and Calculus 3 introduces multivariable calculus and vector calculus. Recommendations for study materials and resources are sought, particularly for those who find theoretical physics concepts challenging.
Hamal_Arietis
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Hi.
After studied General physics, I want to read some book about Theorical Physics. But Mathematics is very difficult. So can you show me the best way to math needed to study physics? From easy to difficult.
Thanks for helping
 
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First of all tell us what math you feel reasonably competent.
 
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Hamal_Arietis said:
Hi.
After studied General physics, I want to read some book about Theorical Physics. But Mathematics is very difficult. So can you show me the best way to math needed to study physics? From easy to difficult.
Thanks for helping
That was not clear.
Official Mathematics course "requirements" for undergraduate Physics degrees will usually list just Calculus 1,2,3, and a combination course of Introduction to Linear Algebra & Differential equations (if not two actual separate courses). The ACTUAL courses needed for someone who wants to do well go beyond those typically listed program "requirements".
 
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Calculus 1,2,3? Can you introduce some books about it? I studied vector calculus and I think it in calculus 2. What is calculus 3? I read some books of Theorical Physics about searies, sums, ...And it seems difficult
 
symbolipoint said:
That was not clear.
Official Mathematics course "requirements" for undergraduate Physics degrees will usually list just Calculus 1,2,3, and a combination course of Introduction to Linear Algebra & Differential equations (if not two actual separate courses). The ACTUAL courses needed for someone who wants to do well go beyond those typically listed program "requirements".
Hamal_Arietis said:
Calculus 1,2,3? Can you introduce some books about it? I studied vector calculus and I think it in calculus 2. What is calculus 3? I read some books of Theorical Physics about searies, sums, ...And it seems difficult
  1. Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1: Limits, Differentiation, Introduction to Integration, Continuity of Functions, academic and applied problem solving
  2. Calculus and Analytic Geometry 2: Techniques of Integration, Sequences and Series, some use of volumes and Integration, Conic Sections involving Integration
  3. Calculus and Analytic Geometry 3: Multivariable Calculus, Vectors and their use with Calculus,... other stuff...
 
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Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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