Is calculus helpful in understanding physics

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Understanding algebra-based physics often requires a grasp of calculus, as many fundamental physics equations are derived from calculus principles. Calculus is essential for comprehending concepts such as motion, where acceleration is the derivative of velocity and position is the double derivative. While high school physics often simplifies these concepts by providing specific equations without delving into calculus, a deeper understanding is necessary for tackling more complex problems, such as those involving air resistance. For anyone pursuing a degree in physics, calculus will be a critical component of their education, underscoring its necessity in fully grasping the subject.
potato123
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Im taking algebra based physics and i am having a hard time trying to understand some concepts or equations and i heard that calculus is very helpful
 
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What don't you understand for example?
 
micromass said:
what don't you understand

I don't really understand how some equations were created or why they work
 
You really need to be a lot more detailed.
 
What do you expect as an answer? Whether calculus is helpful in physics? Yes.
 
Calculus is more than helpful, is needed, one of the most basic physics equations that are seen in school come from derivation, such as V=Vo+a*t is a derived equation from
X=Xo+Vo*t +1/2*a*t^2.
Calculus works at a more fundamental level than the equations stated above, for every kind of classical motion, it is true that the acceleration is the derivative of the velocity, and the double derivative of the position, so it let's you solve more complicated problems, such as modelling air resistance problems for a falling object.
But everything is taught in due time, most (if not all) high-schools "rip" calculus out of physics so it doesn't become a math course, they give you a set of equation to work with in very specific cases, and you work them out as you go.
After this quite extensive answer, yes, calculus is used in every branch of physics, and if you are planning to get a degree in physics, it will be taught in university.
 
potato123 said:
Im taking algebra based physics and i am having a hard time trying to understand some concepts or equations and i heard that calculus is very helpful

As has been stated already, I will repeat the clear and unambigous answer to your question in the topic: Calculus is NECESSARY (not just "helpful) in understanding physics.

Have we answered your question?

Zz.
 
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