Vector Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra

[member 508213]

I am in Calculus BC in high school right now and I am really enjoying it and have finished all of the material for the year and I have heard different things about what class comes after Calculus BC (I believe BC is equivalent to Calc 1 & 2 in college). I have heard the next class, aka Calc 3, is vector calc from some sources and multivariable from others and I am wondering if these subjects are similar? and what differences? and what comes first typically?

Additionally, I have heard that you need linear algebra for vector and multivariable so I am wondering if THAT comes first?? Basically I am confused on what I should focus on now that I have finished Calc 2.

I have tried to look up what comes next, but again I am getting mixed answers. Any help telling me the similarities and differences and what I should study first would be of great help!

Thanks!

 

[jtbell]

is vector calc from some sources and multivariable from others and I am wondering if these subjects are similar?

They're two names for the same thing.

I have heard that you need linear algebra for vector and multivariable

I think at some schools you do, at others you don't. At the college where I work, linear algebra is not a prerequisite for vector calc. I would say go ahead and do whichever one looks more interesting to you. Vector calc is of course more directly related to the other calculus you've studied.

 

[TimeInquirer]

I suggest you take honors math courses once in college if you really want to work on theoretical physics. Just a thought.

 

[member 508213]

I suggest you take honors math courses once in college if you really want to work on theoretical physics. Just a thought.

? I don't want theoretical physics what does that have to do with this thread?

 

[jtbell]

This is "Physics Forums", after all. People tend to assume you're going to be a physics major unless you say otherwise.

 

[member 508213]

This is "Physics Forums", after all. People tend to assume you're going to be a physics major unless you say otherwise.

Nah I'm just here to ask a math question :)

 

[TimeInquirer]

I suppose you are right. Still, take the honors classes lol