- #1
Invyz
- 14
- 0
I was wondering which language would be most beneficial to study if I plan to major in physics in college and would like a head start? I have a basic BASIC knowledge of java, and generally understand syntax, methods, etc.
C++ or C? Or isn't there a huge difference.DavidSnider said:I would suggest learning a functional language like Standard ML, OCaml, F#, Haskell or Scheme.
Or use a basic compiler like mingw and not bother with visual studio madness.CFDFEAGURU said:It is not too hard to learn and you can download it for free from Microsoft.
Yes, no, maybe. C++ is basically C with objects, so to code C++ well it's good to know the basics of C. (Generally, if you know C, you'll get all the other languages.)C++ or C? Or isn't there a huge difference
None of those languages is C or C++. C is a procedural language. C++ adds object-oriented concepts to C. Java similarly is a procedural language that supports object-oriented concepts.Invyz said:C++ or C? Or isn't there a huge difference.DavidSnider said:I would suggest learning a functional language like Standard ML, OCaml, F#, Haskell or Scheme..
I disagree with that parenthetical remark. There are plenty of C plus-or-minus programmers who are writing things in what looks like C++ but do so from a solidly C-based mindset. Do object-oriented programming right and your mindset changes considerably. Learning C won't help much at all in learning a functional language such as Lisp or a logical language such as Prolog.story645 said:Yes, no, maybe. C++ is basically C with objects, so to code C++ well it's good to know the basics of C. (Generally, if you know C, you'll get all the other languages.)
If he knows java well, he should know how to do object-oriented coding. C++ isn't all that great either because of how classes are implemented. Knowing C helps with the basics, (like control structure), but truthfully yeah I misspoke.D H said:Do object-oriented programming right and your mindset changes considerably. Learning C won't help much at all in learning a functional language such as Lisp or a logical language such as Prolog.
Choosing the right language to learn is crucial for studying physics because it allows for better understanding and communication within the scientific community. It also opens up opportunities for collaboration and access to a wider range of resources and research.
There is no one "best" language for studying physics as it ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. However, some commonly used languages in physics include Python, C++, and Fortran.
Having prior knowledge of coding can certainly be helpful, but it is not a requirement. Many languages used in physics have user-friendly interfaces and resources available for beginners.
To determine which language is right for you, consider your goals and the specific areas of physics you are interested in. Research the languages commonly used in those areas and try out a few to see which one you feel most comfortable with.
Yes, it is possible to learn multiple languages for studying physics. In fact, many scientists use a combination of languages depending on the task at hand. However, it is important to focus on mastering one language before moving on to others.