How much Maths does one need in Particle Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical requirements for studying Particle Physics, particularly from the perspective of a young student contemplating a future in physics or chemistry. Participants explore the necessary mathematical foundations, the relevance of various mathematical fields, and the relationship between physics and chemistry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Marc expresses curiosity about the amount and types of mathematics needed for A-level and university-level Particle Physics.
  • One participant mentions that classical field theory relies on differential equations, while quantum mechanics involves group theory and linear algebra.
  • Another participant suggests that achieving good grades in GCSE and A-level Maths is sufficient for entering an undergraduate physics program, with an emphasis on the necessity of further mathematics.
  • Marc shares a personal dilemma about potentially preferring chemistry over physics, citing a lack of interest in broader physics topics and a dislike for what he perceives as 'pointless' mathematics.
  • Some participants argue that fundamental particles and their study require a significant amount of mathematical abstraction, which may seem 'pointless' but is essential for understanding Particle Physics.
  • There is a discussion about the relevance of Quantum Field Theory (QFT) in Particle Physics, with one participant outlining its relationship to classical mechanics, relativistic mechanics, and quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant emphasizes that much of physics fundamentally requires mathematics, suggesting that it is integral to the discipline.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a range of views regarding the necessity and nature of mathematics in physics and chemistry. While some agree on the importance of mathematics, others express differing opinions on its relevance and the necessity of studying broader physics topics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding Marc's potential shift from physics to chemistry.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of mathematical concepts in physics and the necessity of foundational knowledge, but there are varying opinions on the perceived value of certain mathematical topics. The discussion reflects a mix of personal interests and academic requirements.

  • #61
hadsed said:
That's interesting (about programming). You should really continue with that. I started 'round about when you did, and I'd been thinking of doing CS my entire life onward till my last year in high school when I got to know some real physics. Still, programming has been a huge skill for me to get into doing research. I was able to start doing stuff right in the beginning of my first semester because I went to a guy who did computational astrophysics, which requires a ton of programming to run simulations. Now I'm working with two groups and publishing papers (in my second year now).

You should really, really keep with programming. I'd been on and off, but thankfully I'd done enough to keep my skills good enough and I kept learning. If I had stayed with it consistently, I'd probably be a programming grand master by now. So if you can be a theoretical physicist with incredible mathematical expertise as well as a programming guru... well, then you have a very bright future ahead of you. Not only that, but it gives you lots of flexibility with your future. You won't know in 10 years if you still want to do physics, and you certainly won't know your discipline or field that you'll be working in. Hell, you won't know if you even want to try and keep doing physics research after that.

So you what you're saying is I should go back to developing my game engine?
 
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  • #62
Not go back as in, quit physics and mathematics and just do that. I'm saying you should keep your skills sharp and try to learn new things as you go along. It might be just as beneficial to you as learning mathematics and physics. It doesn't matter what it is really, because it will be beneficial to you as long as you're challenging yourself. Of course you couldn't really do anything with programming and physics since most of the computational stuff that goes on in physics involves solving math problems that are too hard or take too long to solve on paper.

So, short answer, yes you should.
 

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