Courses Math Levels for different Physics Courses

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To study Quantum Mechanics, Relativity, and String Theory effectively, a strong foundation in mathematics is essential. Key areas of focus include Linear Algebra and Differential Equations. Linear Algebra is particularly crucial for Quantum Mechanics, as it provides the mathematical framework for understanding quantum states and transformations. A comprehensive understanding of concepts such as vectors, linear transformations, eigenvalues, and group theory is beneficial. Differential Equations are also equally important, as they are fundamental in describing physical systems and their dynamics. Overall, both mathematical disciplines are vital for a deep comprehension of advanced physics topics.
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I am currently in Cal AB and will hopefully study through Cal BC this year. I am raelly interested in Quantum Mechanics, Relativity, and String theory.

I just wanted to know what level of math I will need to study Quantum, relativity, and string theory in depth.

Like Diff Q's, Partial Diff Q's?

I just want to know so I have some mathematical direction...

BTW, Cal BC is like Cal I.5, i think...
 
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I think linear algebra is pretty important for QM.
 
Nothing000 said:
I think linear algebra is pretty important for QM.

I think Linear Algebra would benefit any Physicists.
 
Nothing000 said:
I think linear algebra is pretty important for QM.

SURE IT IS.

Linear Algebra is the fundamental mathematical formalism behind the theory of QM.

Any physicist who gets a "respectable" education will have passed some heavy courses on linear algebra. In college i studied many aspects of linear algebra in the very first year like :

1) all the stuff on vectors like linear combinations, linear dependence, etc etc (we already saw this in high school)
2) linear transformations
3) affine algebra (incidence geometry and parallel classes)
4) projective geometry (angle of Laguerre )
5) homogeneous coordinates
6) eigenvalues and eigenvectors
7) 3-D geometry (also covered in high school)
8) intro to group theory (Cayley tables, cosets, equivalent classes)

This was, together with the calculus course, one of the biggest courses in my first year of college. Lot's of theorems and proofs and exercises...

regards
marlon

Here is http://aivwww.ugent.be/Studentenadministratie/Studiegids/2005/EN/FACULTY/WE/COURSE/CBNAST/01000009/INDEX.HTM
 
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Would you guys say that linear algebra is more important than differential equations, or is Diff E just as important? I am not majoring in physics, I am just wondering.
 
Nothing000 said:
Would you guys say that linear algebra is more important than differential equations, or is Diff E just as important? I am not majoring in physics, I am just wondering.

No, they are most certainly equally important.

marlon
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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