Phys and Maths: How Much Physics for Professional Mathematics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between physics and mathematics, specifically addressing how much physics knowledge is beneficial or necessary for mathematicians, particularly those pursuing careers in professional mathematics. The scope includes theoretical considerations, applications in various fields, and personal experiences related to the integration of physics concepts in mathematical understanding.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that physicists often require advanced mathematics to grasp physical concepts, while questioning how much physics mathematicians need for their work.
  • One participant argues that for pure mathematics, knowledge of physics may not be necessary, whereas applied mathematics or theoretical physics would require more physics coursework.
  • Another viewpoint indicates that applied mathematics involves general problem-solving methods, with physics being a specific application that may require deeper specialization.
  • It is noted that applied mathematics courses often incorporate physics concepts, suggesting that specialization influences the required physics knowledge.
  • One participant emphasizes that mathematics serves as a language for physicists, implying that mathematicians need to understand physics to collaborate effectively with physicists.
  • A later reply raises a question about the relevance of studying relativity for someone specializing in Modern Analysis, indicating uncertainty about the necessity of physics knowledge in that context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the necessity of physics knowledge for mathematicians, with some asserting that it depends on the area of specialization. There is no consensus on a definitive amount of physics that is required.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying assumptions about the relationship between mathematics and physics, with some participants focusing on applied contexts while others consider pure mathematics. The implications of specialization on the necessity of physics knowledge remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the interplay between mathematics and physics, particularly those considering careers in applied mathematics or theoretical physics, may find this discussion relevant.

leon1127
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I think everyone would agree that physicists often need to use very difficult mathematics to understand physical idea.

how about the converse? How much physics do we, (mathematicians), need to know in order to understand Mathematics?

Personally, I think Newtonian Mechanic helps me to understand Calculus, Lagrangian Mechanic helps me to understand Calculus of Variation, and etc. Many difficult ideas in Vector and Tensor Calculus were explained with physical aspect.

I want to know how much Phys I should study further for a career in professional mathematician! Your personal experience is very appriciated.

Thx You
 
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obviously if your'e heading to pure mathematics then none.
but if you want applied maths or theoretical physics, most of your courses will be in physics.
 
I'd say that applied maths is more to do with general concepts, eg. methods for solving particular problems.

`Physics' is a specific application - and as you go deeper into a particular area of physics, that specialisation increases.
 
yes, correct.
but those who take applied maths, don't they need some course in physics.
for example calculus of variations as far as i know is an applied maths field and most of the questions include physics concepts such as concepts from mechanics like velocity.

so i would agree it depends on your specialisation.
 
Math is a language for physicists, not the other way around. Physicists depend on math, the mathematicians have to supply it.
 
Poop-Loops said:
Math is a language for physicists, not the other way around. Physicists depend on math, the mathematicians have to supply it.

I agree on that totally, this is why I want to know how much Phys I should know to work with Physicists.
 
What if my specialisation is in Modern Analysis. Should I spend sometime on relativity?
 

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