Maths for Postgraduate String Theory: Analysis, Algebra, or Topology?

AI Thread Summary
String theory is a complex and intriguing area of study that intersects physics and mathematics, particularly appealing to those majoring in these fields. For students looking to specialize in mathematics to support their understanding of string theory, several areas are highlighted as beneficial. Analysis and algebra are foundational, but topology, especially differential and algebraic topology, is emphasized for its relevance to string theory concepts. Additionally, pursuing an official qualification in "mathematical physics" or "theoretical physics" can enhance one's credentials, with a focus on the mathematical aspects being particularly advantageous. Understanding Calabi-Yau spaces is also noted as a significant topic within this context.
mitcho
Messages
30
Reaction score
0
I admit I don't know anything about string theory (nobody really does at an undergraduate level) but it sounds interesting and seems like something challenging. I am majoring in physics and maths but I am getting to the point in my undergraduate studies where I can begin to specialize more in my maths subjects. So my question is, what area of maths is the most beneficial to peruse this, analysis, algebra or something else? I hear topology is fairly important but that begs the same question, differential or algebraic?

On a related note, would I be better to have an official qualification in "mathematical physics" or "theoretical physic"?

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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...

Similar threads

Replies
0
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top