Self-learning special relativity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around self-learning special relativity (SR), with participants sharing their experiences and resources. The scope includes theoretical understanding, mathematical prerequisites, and recommendations for online resources suitable for varying levels of mathematical proficiency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the time it takes to grasp SR, suggesting personal experiences may vary widely.
  • Another participant argues that more than high school math is needed for a full understanding of SR, although they assume the inquirer is at a high school level.
  • A suggestion is made to use Scilab, a free program similar to MATLAB, for running mathematical models related to relativity, which may ease the learning process.
  • One participant asserts that A-level math is sufficient for understanding the mathematics of SR, emphasizing the challenge lies in adjusting intuitive notions of space and time.
  • Another participant shares their experience, stating that algebra is sufficient for SR, but linear algebra could be beneficial, and recommends specific online resources like Hyperphysics and Leonard Susskind's lectures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the sufficiency of high school math for understanding SR, with some asserting it is adequate while others suggest more advanced mathematics is necessary. There is no consensus on the exact time required to grasp the concepts of SR.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the need for a background to effectively use resources like Wikipedia, indicating potential limitations in understanding without prior knowledge.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in self-learning special relativity, particularly those with a background in high school mathematics or those seeking resources for further study in physics.

nitro92
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Hey guys, I am currently trying to learn special relativity independently. I just read thru the 1st chapter of Spacetime physics and is trying out some questions. Just a few questions though:

1. How long did it took you guys to grasp special relativity?
2. Is A level math(high school level) sufficient to have a clear understanding of SR?
3. Any online resources good for people of my math proficiency level?

P.S : I am currently busy as a conscript of my nation's army. Therefore, I don't have all the time in the world to learn this. So I am trying to utilize my free time optimally by studying something interesting and perhaps useful( I am going to study Chemical Engineering in less than 2 years time!)
 
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A handy program that's free that can immensely help is scilab, Its similar to MATLAB in function takes a bit to learn how to use it but its great for running mathematical models and number sets, Also has handy graph capabilities.
The handy part of that is rather than having to calculate yourself what happens in relativity formulas you can tell it what equation to run then provide it a range of numbers to calculate per variable and graph them.
Far easier than trying to do so by hand.
 
The mathematics of special relativity isn't that difficult. A-level* is more than enough. The difficult part is to throw away some of your intuitive notions of how space and time appear to work.

You do need more maths for general relativity (i.e. relativity with gravity) or for accelerating frames in special relativity, but don't try to run before you can walk!

______
*That means 16-18 year-olds in the UK.
 
nitro92 said:
1. How long did it took you guys to grasp special relativity?
7 years, but only occasional attempts at that time and not using a dedicated book.

nitro92 said:
2. Is A level math(high school level) sufficient to have a clear understanding of SR?
Yes. Algebra is sufficient, but linear algebra would be a very strong plus.

nitro92 said:
3. Any online resources good for people of my math proficiency level?
Definitely start with Hyperphysics, IMO. Then I would recommend Leonard Susskind's lectures. After that Wikipedia is not a bad resource, but you need to have a little bit of a background so you can filter mistakes that occasionally crop up.
 
Wow. Thanks for the quick replies. You guys are great!
 

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