Ready to Start Self-Studying: E&M Without Mechanics

AI Thread Summary
Self-studying for an Introductory Electricity and Magnetism (E&M) course can be effectively initiated without completing the second half of a mechanics course. However, a solid understanding of vector calculus is essential, even for introductory levels. Mastery of basic vector rules and concepts from Intermediate Calculus, particularly those covered in a typical Calculus III course, will significantly aid in grasping E&M fundamentals. This foundational knowledge is crucial for students in Physical Science and Engineering majors to succeed in their studies.
lubuntu
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Okay so I calmed down from my last post and am ready to actually do something worthwhile.

Would I be able to start self studying material for a future class that doesn't rely on the second half of a mechanics course? Specifically I'd like to start studying some Intro E&M stuff on my own, is there any stuff from mechanics I'll need to make sure I have down cold to do so?
 
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The best way to prepare for E&M is to beef up your vector calculus knowledge.
 
even for an intro course, i'll need Vector calculus?
 
lubuntu said:
even for an intro course, i'll need Vector calculus?

Let's put it this way: Vector Calculus or at least most/all of Intermediate Calculus(if not more) will be very helpful in the Electricity & Magnetism Physics fundamental course for the Physical Science and Engineering majors.
 
lubuntu said:
even for an intro course, i'll need Vector calculus?

For Intro E&M you will need to know basic basic vector rules. At my univeristy it was Calc III (not exactly sure if it is the same everywhere).
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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