Is a C grade in thermo really bad?

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SUMMARY

A C grade in thermodynamics, particularly when studied through statistical mechanics, can negatively impact a physics major's graduate school applications, especially if it is perceived as a reflection of the student's understanding of core concepts. While a single C is not catastrophic, it raises concerns about the student's preparedness for comprehensive exams, which often include thermodynamics. Students are encouraged to improve their understanding through self-study and to consider their overall GPA and performance in related courses when evaluating the implications of this grade.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics concepts
  • Familiarity with partition functions
  • Knowledge of graduate school application processes
  • Basic principles of GPA calculation and its impact on academic progression
NEXT STEPS
  • Review statistical mechanics concepts, focusing on partition functions
  • Research effective self-study techniques for difficult subjects
  • Explore strategies for improving GPA in graduate school applications
  • Investigate the significance of the Physics Graduate Record Examination (PGRE) scores
USEFUL FOR

Physics majors, undergraduate students preparing for graduate school, and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of thermodynamics and its implications for academic success.

Ahmed Abdalla
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Hey all, I'm currently studying for my thermo final and it's really kicking my butt. My average has been a C and if I do EXTREMELY well on my final I'll be REALLY pushing for a B. I'm not sure how thermo is taught in other universities, but I'm learning it through statistical mechanics with concepts such as partition functions and all and I never took statistical mechanics before so you can imagine my confusion. I was wondering if a C is really bad in the long run? I mean I'll have to teach the subject to myself again in the future, maybe I'll understand it better with prior knowledge, but grades wise I'm scared. I never got below a B+ in physics courses and as a physics major who wants to go to grad school I feel like I'm failing life with that C!

EDIT: how much does a C grade affect chances of getting into grad school?
 
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What do you want us to say? It's OK to give up?
 
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Vanadium 50 said:
What do you want us to say? It's OK to give up?
Nah I'm wondering how bad is a C when applying for grad schools
 
It's bad. Not as bad as two C's or an F. Now what are you going to do with it?
 
Vanadium 50 said:
It's bad. Not as bad as two C's or an F. Now what are you going to do with it?
I'll try to make up for it!
 
Statistical mechanics and thermodynamics is one of the focus areas in most comprehensive exams. So a C grade in it will likely garner more attention than a C in an unrelated elective. If you're struggling with your class now, it might draw into question whether you'll be successful in challenging the department's comprehensive exam.

That said, put your best effort into it now. Sometimes you can be surprised by the curve.
 
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Not so much about Thermodynamics, but have you ever tried reviewing a course or its close-prerequisites and the course you do poorly in, on your own, before studying it again in school? If you do/did, you should expect to learn it better the second time.
 
A lot depends on context. GPA, grades in other physics courses, PGRE scores, etc.

A C in thermo suggests a weakness. Does the other available info tend to confirm the weakness or suggest the C may be an isolated event unrelated to the skills and preparation habits of the student?
 

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