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epislon58
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Should I take modern physics and classical mechanics in the same semester? Or is that a bad idea. And my concerns are mostly about needing to understand stuff from modern to understand classical. Thank you
epislon58 said:how about taking a quantum mechanics class, nuclear and elementary particle , Atomic, Molecular, and Condensed Matter physics class at the same time?
Modern mechanics is a branch of physics that studies objects moving at high speeds or on a very small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. Classical mechanics, on the other hand, deals with the motion of macroscopic objects at low speeds. It is based on Isaac Newton's laws of motion and has been the standard for hundreds of years.
The choice between modern and classical mechanics ultimately depends on the interests and career goals of the student. Both branches have their own benefits and relevance in various fields of physics. It is recommended to have a basic understanding of classical mechanics before delving into modern mechanics.
A modern mechanics course may cover topics such as special relativity, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics. It may also involve studying the behavior of particles in motion, the properties of waves, and the laws governing energy and momentum.
In addition to the topics mentioned above, a classical mechanics course may also cover concepts such as kinematics, dynamics, and rotational motion. It focuses on macroscopic objects and their motion in relation to forces acting upon them, while modern mechanics deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level.
A solid foundation in calculus, differential equations, and classical mechanics is usually required for a modern mechanics course. It is also recommended to have a basic understanding of classical electromagnetism and thermodynamics, as these concepts may be relevant in modern mechanics as well.