Quantum Physics - My adventure and obsession.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the personal journey of a participant who is seeking knowledge in quantum physics and expressing a desire to prepare for college-level studies in the field. The conversation touches on the challenges of learning complex subjects, the importance of foundational mathematics, and the emotional aspects of pursuing a deep understanding of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their journey from a lack of understanding to a desire for a deeper comprehension of physics and competing theories.
  • Another participant emphasizes the necessity of mastering mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and calculus, as essential for success in physics.
  • Concerns are raised about the overwhelming nature of physics and the potential for burnout if one tries to understand everything at once.
  • Some participants suggest enrolling in community college as a structured way to learn rather than relying solely on self-study.
  • There are differing views on the feasibility of achieving a "higher consciousness" through the study of physics, with some participants expressing skepticism about this goal.
  • Participants discuss the emotional challenges of learning and the need for balance to avoid mental exhaustion.
  • One participant shares their personal strategy of focusing on manageable topics to maintain productivity and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion features multiple competing views regarding the best approach to learning physics, the role of mathematics, and the emotional aspects of pursuing knowledge. There is no consensus on the feasibility of achieving a higher consciousness through physics.

Contextual Notes

Participants express various assumptions about their learning capabilities and the nature of physics, indicating a range of personal experiences and emotional responses that may influence their perspectives.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in pursuing studies in physics, particularly those who may feel overwhelmed by the subject or are seeking advice on preparation and emotional management in academic settings.

  • #31
Kindayr said:
Just a side note, I'm 3rd year pursuing a math degree. I plan on taking QM courses either in supplement to my Master's (I'm hoping to get into quantum computing through non-commutative geometry).

Would undergraduate QM courses be relatively more accessible with a background in linear algebra, functional analysis and measure theory?

I haven't taken a physics course since first year, and that didn't even touch on modern physics.

Take a look at this book, too:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/082184699X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It's a nice supplement.
 
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  • #32
OFF TOPIC!

twofish-quant said:
-Before I die, I hope that someone will explain quantum mechanics to me. After I die, I hope that God will explain turbulence to me. (W. Heisenberg)

I came across this quotation (or a rephrase of it) many times. Sometimes it is attributed to Heisenberg and other times it's attributed to Sir Horace Lamb. But I couldn't find any authentic source for it. Could you find any ?
 
  • #33
yenchin said:
By a mathematician's standard, even graduate QM is hand-wavy...

By mathematicians standards, everything that physicists do is hand-wavy. Physicists and mathematicians look at the world in fundamentally different ways, and physicists will do things with math that will make mathematicians run away screaming in horror.
 

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