Math Help for Physics Undergrad: Advice Needed

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on a physics undergraduate seeking assistance with the mathematical components of their degree. Participants emphasize that the mathematics used in physics functions as a distinct language, requiring a different approach than traditional mathematics. Key concepts highlighted include Einstein notation, tensor notation, and the importance of understanding mathematical techniques as they relate to physical principles. The conversation also touches on the need for clarity in communication and the necessity of addressing foundational math courses to succeed in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein notation and tensor notation
  • Familiarity with basic calculus and linear algebra
  • Knowledge of vector spaces and their applications in physics
  • Ability to interpret mathematical language in the context of physical theories
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the applications of Einstein notation in physics
  • Learn about tensor calculus and its relevance to general relativity
  • Explore the differences between mathematical and physical interpretations of concepts
  • Review foundational mathematics courses relevant to physics, such as calculus and linear algebra
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics undergraduates, educators in physics and mathematics, and anyone looking to bridge the gap between mathematical theory and its application in physical sciences.

astrofanatic
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TL;DR Summary: help with math for physics undergraduate degree - advice needed

Hello! I'm studying physics for my undergraduate degree. I have a question, and if anyone can help I'd truly appreciate it. I have problems with the math part. I love physics (concepts, research, findings) but i do definitely need help with the math part. I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
 
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It's not clear what's the nature of the help you are seeking. You should be more specific.
 
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astrofanatic said:
I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
What does "give me tile" mean?

Which mathematics courses have you taken and how well did you do in them (i.e., your grades)?
Are you currently a university student?
If so, what year are you in?
 
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Mark44 said:
What does "give me tile" mean?
I wondered about that too, so I did a Google search on give me tile but that basically got me to the Home Depot website. Sigh.

Then I tried slang: give me tile and let's just say that it returned something NSFPF... :wink:
 
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astrofanatic said:
TL;DR Summary: help with math for physics undergraduate degree - advice needed

Hello! I'm studying physics for my undergraduate degree. I have a question, and if anyone can help I'd truly appreciate it. I have problems with the math part. I love physics (concepts, research, findings) but i do definitely need help with the math part. I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
I think, i.e. it is my opinion, that mathematics in physics is a different language than mathematics in mathematics. It can help a lot if you consider this since learning a language is different from learning theorems. There are a lot of technical aspects in the mathematics of physics: coordinates, indexes, and bases (vectors) are everywhere and a lot of the mathematics around them are techniques to handle them: Einstein notation, tensor notation, raising and lowering indices, (partial) derivatives as basis vectors, adjoint, hermitian, unitary operators, matrices, and so on. As a physicist, you primarily learn the methods to deal with them. Of course, you need to know the differences between those and roughly what they are. But if a physicist says curvature, then he thinks of a tensor. However, a tensor for a mathematician is multilinear in the first place, and not at all anything curved!

So my advice is: consider the math you need for physics as a language that physicists use to communicate. Learn that language, not that math. It is a mathematical language so you cannot avoid all the mathematics behind it, but its usage differs in both fields.
 
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berkeman said:
I wondered about that too, so I did a Google search on give me tile but that basically got me to the Home Depot website. Sigh.

Then I tried slang: give me tile and let's just say that it returned something NSFPF... :wink:
I tried a Google search on give me tile and got the same results. I followed your suggested search and learned a few things. I must be slow this morning, I can't figure what NSFPF means, lol.
 
Not Safe For PF :wink:
 
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berkeman said:
Not Safe For PF :wink:
Similar to NSFW -- not safe for work
 
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@astrofanatic the last time you had posted was in the following thread:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...ing-to-graduate-on-time.1051710/#post-6875791

From the previous thread, it appears that you were struggling with one of your physics classes, which turns out to be a prerequisite for your other physics classes.

I have the following questions:

1. Are you a student in the US? If not, where are you studying?

2. How far along are you in your physics program?

3. What math classes have you taken thus far? What were your grades in those?

I would suggest you answer these questions to us before we are in the position to offer any constructive advice.
 
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Mark44 said:
What does "give me tile" mean?
I read it as a typo for "give me time". But we'll need the OP to confirm. Of course, the OP could be replacing flooring and needs donations. :oldbiggrin:
 
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