Math prerequistes for pharmacist to understand relativity

  • Thread starter Thread starter VinnyW
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Relativity
AI Thread Summary
To understand relativity, a solid foundation in mathematics is essential, particularly for General Relativity (GR) and Special Relativity (SR). A background in Calculus 1 and Linear Algebra is sufficient for grasping the basics of SR. For GR, knowledge of differential geometry and advanced linear algebra, specifically tensor algebra, is crucial. Many students learn these mathematical concepts concurrently with their physics studies. The time required to master the prerequisites varies, but a structured approach through recommended textbooks can facilitate the learning process. Key resources include foundational texts in linear algebra and differential geometry, which will support the understanding of relativity concepts.
VinnyW
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
I know someone posted something similar before. However, that person definitely has taken some advanced math classes before.
I am a biology/pharmacy major and I want to teach myself relativity. The most difficult math and physics classes I have taken are calculus 3 and physical chemistry respectively.
I am currently reading "Linear algebra and its applications by David C lay"
Can someone make up a list of books I need to read in order to understand relativity? How long will it take to read and understand all the prerequisites?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
As far as understanding Special Relativity goes, you should have the necessary math if you've got Calc 1 and Linear Algebra.

For General Relativity, the mathematical language is that of differential geometry and advanced linear algebra (tensor algebra). But I believe the typical student of GR picks up these topics as he studies the physics.
 
I’ve been looking through the curricula of several European theoretical/mathematical physics MSc programs (ETH, Oxford, Cambridge, LMU, ENS Paris, etc), and I’m struck by how little emphasis they place on advanced fundamental courses. Nearly everything seems to be research-adjacent: string theory, quantum field theory, quantum optics, cosmology, soft matter physics, black hole radiation, etc. What I don’t see are the kinds of “second-pass fundamentals” I was hoping for, things like...
TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...

Similar threads

Back
Top