Pre-calculus or calculus before physics?

AI Thread Summary
Self-studying math and physics can be effectively approached by finishing pre-calculus and calculus before diving into basic physics, but simultaneous learning is also feasible. A solid understanding of single-variable calculus, trigonometry, and algebra is essential for grasping fundamental concepts like Newton's laws. For more advanced physics topics, proficiency in differential equations, vector algebra, and linear algebra becomes necessary. Balancing math and physics studies can enhance comprehension, but foundational math skills are crucial for a deeper understanding of physics principles.
Vola
Gold Member
Messages
14
Reaction score
0
I,m self-studying math and physics as my hobby.
Should I finish pre-calculus and calculus before I start basic physics or I can learn them simultaneously?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Quick answer: Yes

While you can study and understand the simplistic methods of all Physics without any math, even Newton's laws require at LEAST a GOOD knowledge of single variable calculus, trigonometry, and algebra. Anything more advanced likely requires substantial skill in differential equations, vector algebra and calculus, and linear algebra to start.
 

Thread 'Where did all the “fundamentals-deepening” master’s programs go?'

I’ve been looking through the curricula of several European theoretical/mathematical physics MSc programs (ETH, Oxford, Cambridge, LMU, ENS Paris, etc), and I’m struck by how little emphasis they place on advanced fundamental courses. Nearly everything seems to be research-adjacent: string theory, quantum field theory, quantum optics, cosmology, soft matter physics, black hole radiation, etc. What I don’t see are the kinds of “second-pass fundamentals” I was hoping for, things like...
View full post »

Thread 'Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory'

TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...
View full post »

Similar threads

Courses Algebra or Calculus based physics to start with?
Replies
5
Views
3K
AP Calculus BC
Replies
33
Views
2K
Is this a good self-study program?
Replies
16
Views
2K
Getting Back on Track with Physics Help
Replies
39
Views
4K
Introduction to Modern Astrophysics -- What are the prerequisites?
Replies
2
Views
2K
Other Higher Level Math for IPhO?
Replies
7
Views
2K
Studying Ready to start Calculus (I think), but unsure where to start
Replies
29
Views
2K
Textbook/study plan questions
Replies
9
Views
2K
Why Is Calculus Personal for Me?
Replies
4
Views
2K
Courses Similarities in College Physics 1301 and University Physics 2425
Replies
3
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top