Mastering the 3D Aspect of Math & Physics

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter yoooosam
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    3d Physics
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on mastering the visualization of three-dimensional (3D) concepts in mathematics and physics. Participants emphasize the importance of 3D visualization for understanding complex topics such as calculus and organic chemistry. Techniques suggested include studying one's surroundings, practicing perspective drawing, and utilizing online 3D visualizers like Vector Visualizer and Nearest Stars in 3D. The conversation highlights that while some individuals may struggle with 3D visualization, consistent practice and concrete exercises can significantly improve this skill.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts, including solid of revolution and partial derivatives.
  • Familiarity with organic chemistry, particularly stereochemistry and molecular visualization.
  • Knowledge of Euclidean geometry and its applications in 3D drawing techniques.
  • Experience with perspective drawing to enhance spatial awareness.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore online 3D visualizers such as Vector Visualizer and Color Map Visualizer to practice spatial reasoning.
  • Learn advanced perspective drawing techniques to improve 3D representation skills.
  • Engage in exercises that involve sketching 3D objects from different angles to enhance visualization.
  • Study stereochemical models in organic chemistry to better understand molecular structures in three dimensions.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and chemistry who seek to enhance their 3D visualization skills, as well as educators looking for effective teaching strategies in these subjects.

  • #31
klimatos said:
Yoooosam, do you have 3D vision?

I was born without the ability to see in three dimensions.
Thank you for bringing that up. I was just about to mention that the only circumstance that I could think of wherein one couldn't envision 3D in his mind is if he also couldn't in real life. (That is also to what I attributed my inability to envision 4D.) I have experienced it a few times, temporarily, due to iritis from infections and a couple of flash-blindness incidents due to welding and playing with magnesium. A large percentage of my nieces/nephews-in-law (well, technically my ex-live-in-girlfriend's kin, but still my family even though she no longer is—relationships are complex in Cree culture) have gradually gone totally blind at various rates due to hereditary retinitis pigmentosa. They all still perceive their environments in 3 dimensions, but with that mapping done by other than the visual cortex. (I know that I'm convoluting tenses and singular/plural terms, and I apologize for that, but I'm just not energetic enough right now to do things properly.) Anyhow, they know what it was like to see things that way, even though they no longer can.

(I learned to judge automotive distances by relative size.)
It must drive you batshit crazy when you have a bunch of Fleetwoods and Mini Coopers and Continentals and SMART cars all in the same traffic flow. :D It'd be like having walruses and field mice attacking at the same time.
Klimatos, I would like to converse a wee bit more about shooting both pool and guns, but that would derail the thread. I'll contact you later.
 

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