How difficult is the maths involved in Theoretical Physics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges of studying theoretical physics at Trinity College, particularly regarding the mathematical requirements. The individual expresses confidence in their physics abilities, having scored 85% on a physics exam, but is concerned about their math skills, reflected in a 68% score on a Christmas test. They seek clarity on the difficulty level of the math involved in theoretical physics. Responses indicate that if the individual can gain acceptance to Trinity, they likely possess the capability to handle the coursework. It is noted that while the math can be complex, especially with modern theories, the difficulty of physics often lies beyond just the mathematical component.
Nessa123
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For a while now I've known that I would like to do theoretical physics, but I'm having trouble finding out how hard the maths involved actually is. I would like to study this a Trinity College, and on their website the minimum requirements are a B2 in higher level physics (no problem, I can do that), and the same in higher level maths. Problem.

Now, I'm definitely not bad at maths. I got 68% on my Christmas test, and most of those mistakes were due to me panicking in the exam situation, and when I redid the questions afterwards for homework I got them all right.

I got 85% (A2) on the physics exam though.

So, what I really need to know before I make any decisions is; how hard is the maths?
 
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Nessa123 said:
For a while now I've known that I would like to do theoretical physics, but I'm having trouble finding out how hard the maths involved actually is. I would like to study this a Trinity College, and on their website the minimum requirements are a B2 in higher level physics (no problem, I can do that), and the same in higher level maths. Problem.

Now, I'm definitely not bad at maths. I got 68% on my Christmas test, and most of those mistakes were due to me panicking in the exam situation, and when I redid the questions afterwards for homework I got them all right.

I got 85% (A2) on the physics exam though.

So, what I really need to know before I make any decisions is; how hard is the maths?

imo if you are able to get yourself accepted to trinity, you are capable of doing the work . . .
 
The math usually isn't what makes physics hard. Some of the current theories are using very modern mathematics, so I would say the math involved can be as hard as you want it to be.
 
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