Teaching yourself modern physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the self-directed study of modern physics, particularly focusing on the necessary mathematical foundations required for a deeper understanding. Participants explore the progression of mathematical topics that may be beneficial for someone starting from a background in software engineering.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Luca expresses a desire to teach himself modern physics and acknowledges the need for a strong mathematical foundation.
  • Some participants suggest various mathematical topics that may be important, including calculus, vector calculus, differential geometry, matrices, group theory, real analysis, complex analysis, and probability and statistics.
  • One participant emphasizes that mathematics serves as a toolbox for physicists, implying the importance of a broad mathematical knowledge base.
  • A link to additional resources on mathematical topics relevant to physics is shared by a participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of mathematics in studying physics, but there is no consensus on a specific progression of topics or which areas are most essential.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the specific order or necessity of the mathematical topics mentioned, and it is unclear how each participant defines the importance of these topics in relation to modern physics.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in self-studying modern physics, particularly those with a background in software engineering or related fields, may find this discussion relevant.

pamparana
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Hello everyone,

I am a software engineer by profession. However, I would love to teach myself Physics and would like to gain a deeper understanding of modern physics. I know it is quit a daunting tasks but I am determined to make it happen, even if it takes a few many years!

I understand that I will need to build a very extensive mathematical foundation for this. I am pretty comfortable with calculus, linear algebra but am not a Mathematician and would probably struggle (on very good days!) with some of the math involved.

So, my question to you guys is, what are the mathematical topics that one should be comfortable with before trying to study physics in some depth? What is the progression of the Mathematical topics that I should cover?

Thanks,

Luca
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi Luca, welcome to PF.

Calculus of course is a main one. Vector calculus, differential geometry, matrices, group theory, real analysis, complex analysis, probability and statistics.. the list goes on.
A physicist can never know enough mathematics, mathematics is like a physicists toolbox.

edit : Just found this, http://www.superstringtheory.com/math/math1.html
 
Great! Thanks for that link. Time to get cracking then :)

Luca
 
No problem!
Good luck! :wink:
 

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