What Math Do You Need for Theoretical Physics?

AI Thread Summary
A forum member with a background in science and a successful career in online marketing is revisiting their interest in theoretical physics. They express a desire to overcome their intimidation by complex physics equations and seek personal enlightenment through the subject. The member inquires about the necessary math courses to take before starting introductory physics, specifically asking if chemistry is also required. They are interested in the sequence of math classes needed for their journey into physics and are considering online resources like Khan Academy for their studies. The discussion highlights the importance of a solid mathematical foundation for understanding physics.
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Hello.

I have been a member on this forum for quite some time and I came here because I've always had an interest in science, particularly physics. When I was in Junior High, I did very well in my science class but by the time I got to college, I wanted to make money. However, I realized that having a job as a physicist was not going to cut it, so I took the other path and now I am financially secured thanks to specializing in online marketing.

Now that I have some free time, I decided to look into physics, specifically, theoretical physics because I've always had a fascination within that field. In the past, whenever I would go to a bookstore and check out the physics section, I would randomly select a book on the subject and I would see those mind-bogglingly complicated physics equations stare angrily back at me. Many years ago, I used to get intimidated by them, but now, I've changed my atititude to the point where I don't let it bother me anymore, thinking positive by saying to those physics equations, "Some day, you and I are going to be good friends, you'll see". I'm doing this for me, for my own enlightenment.

Anyway, I understand that there is a lot of math involved in science, especially physics and the closest level of mathematics that I reached was college algebra.

What other math courses must I take prior to introductory physics? Do I need to take a course in chemistry too? What is the order in terms of what math classes I should take in regards to my journey to eventually learning physics? What about taking online courses at the Khan Academy website? Thanks in advance! :)
 
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Thank you, much appreciated! :smile:
 
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I grant you that it's a bit much ... :wink:

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That's okay, I have some time, thanks again! :wink:
 
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"...
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