Intermediate methods of mathematical physics

In summary, the two courses in question are specific mathematical methods used in advanced physics courses, with topics including differential equations, vector calculus, Laplace transforms, Fourier analysis, and complex analysis. There is no indication that one course is a prerequisite for the other, but there may be some overlap in topics. Physicists may use complex analysis in their work, but it is not necessary to have taken a course specifically on real analysis.
  • #1
torquemada
110
0
Hi my school has these two courses:


Specific mathematical methods used in advanced courses in physics.
233. Differential equations, vector differential and integral calculus.
234. Laplace transforms, Fourier analysis, complex analysis.

There is no indication that 233 is a prereq for 234. However the website sometimes fudges prereqs. Are the topics mutually exclusive? Or do I need to know 233 for 234? Thanks


Also I'm wondering how come physicists need complex analysis but not real analysis? Or will real analysis pop up somewhere, and it's just not specified on any of the physics course descriptions at my college? Thanks
 
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  • #2
torquemada said:
Hi my school has these two courses:


Specific mathematical methods used in advanced courses in physics.
233. Differential equations, vector differential and integral calculus.
234. Laplace transforms, Fourier analysis, complex analysis.

There is no indication that 233 is a prereq for 234. However the website sometimes fudges prereqs. Are the topics mutually exclusive? Or do I need to know 233 for 234? Thanks


Also I'm wondering how come physicists need complex analysis but not real analysis? Or will real analysis pop up somewhere, and it's just not specified on any of the physics course descriptions at my college? Thanks

Could you perhaps list the topics of the two courses?? I don't think you really need 233 for 234, although you might see applications of 234 that uses differential equations... For example, Laplace transforms are often applied on ODE's.

For your second questions. You don't really need complex analysis either, you just need the applications of complex analysis. So the course could as well be "complex calculus" or something. But I think that most colleges think that by the time you need complex stuff, then you are mature enough to take complex analysis.
 
  • #3
Unfortunately that's the only description they provide for those courses - they use the kreyzig text Advanced Engineering Mathematics, if that helps :).
 

1. What is the purpose of using intermediate methods of mathematical physics?

The purpose of using intermediate methods of mathematical physics is to bridge the gap between basic mathematical concepts and advanced physics theories. These methods involve using mathematical tools, such as differential equations and complex analysis, to solve complex physical problems.

2. What are some examples of intermediate methods used in mathematical physics?

Examples of intermediate methods used in mathematical physics include Fourier analysis, Green's functions, variational principles, and perturbation theory. These methods are used to solve problems in many areas of physics, such as quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism.

3. How do intermediate methods differ from basic mathematical techniques?

Intermediate methods of mathematical physics involve more advanced mathematical concepts compared to basic techniques. They also require a deeper understanding of both mathematics and physics in order to effectively solve complex problems.

4. Can intermediate methods be used in other fields besides physics?

Yes, intermediate methods of mathematical physics can also be applied in other fields such as engineering, chemistry, and biology. These methods are versatile and can be used to solve problems in any field that involves mathematical modeling and analysis.

5. Are there any limitations to using intermediate methods in mathematical physics?

While intermediate methods can be very useful in solving complex physical problems, they may not always provide exact solutions. In some cases, approximations and numerical methods may be needed to obtain more accurate results. These methods also require a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, making them more challenging for beginners to understand.

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