Physics with calculus. Prior to Calculus

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of taking a physics course that incorporates calculus while simultaneously learning calculus. Participants explore whether it is feasible to succeed in physics without a strong foundation in calculus, particularly regarding the use of kinematic formulas and the necessity of understanding derivatives and integrals.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the simultaneous study of calculus and physics, questioning if they can manage physics with limited calculus knowledge.
  • Another participant asserts that understanding the basics of calculus is essential, although it is possible to grasp many physics concepts without deriving equations.
  • A similar viewpoint is reiterated, emphasizing the need for calculus understanding while suggesting that some physics can be learned without deep calculus knowledge.
  • There is a suggestion that dropping the physics class might be wise if calculus is heavily integrated into problem-solving.
  • A participant inquires about the situation of other students in the class, indicating that a shared experience might influence the learning environment.
  • Concerns are raised about the lack of math instruction in the physics class, which could disadvantage students not well-versed in calculus.
  • One participant encourages communication with the professor regarding these challenges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a basic understanding of calculus is important for success in the physics course. However, there is no consensus on whether the original poster should drop the physics class or if they can succeed with additional effort.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence in managing physics without a strong calculus background, highlighting the potential need for additional support or instruction in mathematics.

Kendal
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This is my first year in college, and I am currently taking calculus 1, and physics w/ calculus.
My academic adviser told me that I would be okay taking the two together since I'd be learning the calculus as i went. This doesn't seem to be the case because for a lot of my problems we are already using derivatives and integrals. Is there a way I'll be able to use all of the Kinematic formulas (1D and 2D) without knowing much calculus? Should I continue trying to do work on physics with my little calculus knowledge or should I really invest my time in figuring out calculus first.
TL;DR: Can I get by in physics w/ calculus without knowing most calculus, or should I learn the basics of calc first and drop the physics class for now?
 
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You certainly need to understand the basics of calculus. You can understand a lot of physics while skipping the details of the specific calculus calculations. Eventually you will have to understand how to calculate derivatives and integrals to be able to derive several physics equations. But you can understand most of them without necessarily deriving them.
 
FactChecker said:
You certainly need to understand the basics of calculus. You can understand a lot of physics while skipping the details of the specific calculus calculations. Eventually you will have to understand how to calculate derivatives and integrals to be able to derive several physics equations. But you can understand most of them without necessarily deriving them.
so would it be smart to drop physics? or is it possible for me to still get at least a B in there?
 
Kendal said:
so would it be smart to drop physics? or is it possible for me to still get at least a B in there?

If you are already supposed to be using integration and differentiation to solve problems, then it would probably be in your best interest to drop the class. However, if the calculus is just in the lecture and you can use algebra to solve the problems, you might be okay.
 
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How many of the other students in your physics class are in the same situation as you?
 
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gmax137 said:
How many of the other students in your physics class are in the same situation as you?
maybe 2-3
 
Hmm that's not so good. I learned a lot (a lot!) of math in my physics classes, but we were all in the same boat so the profs had to take the time to teach us the math as we went along. If that isn't happening in your class you may be at a real disadvantage. On the other hand, if it's simple stuff you might be able to pick up what you need with a little extra effort and help.
 
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Have you talked to the professor / instructor about this?
 
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