Introduction to Modern Astrophysics -- What are the prerequisites?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the prerequisites for understanding a recommended physics textbook, specifically Carroll and Ostlie, which is considered suitable for upper undergraduate or lower graduate levels. The individual seeking advice has no formal math training but has self-studied calculus up to a level below multivariable and has explored classical mechanics and special relativity. They are currently working through a calculus book by Michael Spivak and a linear algebra book by Sheldon Axler, albeit at a slow pace. The individual expresses a desire to focus on physics and learn the necessary math as it becomes relevant, indicating a preference for a more integrated approach to learning rather than a purely mathematical foundation before tackling physics concepts.
JLowe
Messages
105
Reaction score
80
I was recently recommended this book and told it was a standard textbook at an upper undergraduate level or lower graduate level. Well that's certainly above my level, but specifically what would be the prerequisites?

I've no formal math training but self taught calculus at a level somewhere below multivariable. I've previously gone through some basic textbooks on classical mechanics and special relativity. My current math studies are ongoing with a Calculus book by Michael Spivak and a Linear Algebra book by Sheldon Axler. I'm not setting any speedrun records through either, and I'd rather start going straight to the physics and learning the math as it becomes relevant.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yes
 
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...

Similar threads

Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
4K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Back
Top