I need some motivation to study E&M

[Geezer]

I don't know why, but I just can't get into E&M. I didn't find it interesting as an undergrad, and it's not interesting to me now as a grad student. However, I need to know the material--gotta pass the quals!--and I even want to know the material ('cause it's an important part of physics and I want to be a well-rounded physicist), but every time I open up an E&M book (and I have quite a few at my disposal), I fail to get anywhere with it.

Now, I love stat mech. If I could find some overlap between stat mech and E&M, then I would have a roundabout way of studying E&M and perhaps my interest in the material would be piqued.

Any ideas for making myself care about the material?

 

[Angry Citizen]

E&M makes particle accelerators possible. If that ain't cool enough to interest you, I don't know what would :)

 

[Geezer]

E&M makes particle accelerators possible. If that ain't cool enough to interest you, I don't know what would :)

Meh. I'm not an HEP or particle person. Not a string theory person, either. I'm more inclined towards condensed matter physics.

 

[lisab]

Meh. I'm not an HEP or particle person. Not a string theory person, either. I'm more inclined towards condensed matter physics.

Nice - condensed matter is probably the most awesome field in physics, IMHO . But it requires a solid grasp of E&M, too.

Actually I'm like you - I could never really love E&M the way I loved quantum or statistical mechanics. I guess it falls into the category of "suck it up". Just get through it.

 

[Matrix0]

First of all, it's completely normal to struggle with certain subjects or topics in science. E&M can be a challenging subject, but it is also an essential part of physics and understanding it will greatly benefit your overall understanding of the field.

One approach to finding motivation for studying E&M could be to think about how it relates to your interests in stat mech. While they may seem like very different areas of physics, there are actually many connections between them. For example, both E&M and stat mech involve studying the behavior of systems at a microscopic level, and they both use mathematical models to describe these systems. By exploring the connections between these two areas, you may find a new perspective on E&M and develop a deeper appreciation for its importance in physics.

Another approach could be to think about the practical applications of E&M. From electricity and magnetism, we have technologies such as computers, smartphones, and MRI machines. By understanding the principles of E&M, you are gaining a deeper understanding of the world around us and how it works. This knowledge can also open up career opportunities in fields such as engineering or electronics.

It may also be helpful to break down the material into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead of trying to tackle an entire E&M book at once, focus on one concept or problem at a time. You can also try exploring different resources, such as online tutorials or videos, to find a different approach that may resonate with you more.

Ultimately, it's important to remember that studying E&M is not just about passing exams, but about developing a strong foundation in physics. By mastering this subject, you are setting yourself up for success in your future studies and career. Keep an open mind and don't be afraid to ask for help or find new ways to approach the material. With persistence and determination, you can overcome any challenges and find motivation to study E&M.