Courses Which Optional Maths Modules Are Crucial for Experimental Physics?

AI Thread Summary
For students specializing in Experimental Physics, Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) are deemed essential, while Complex Analysis is not considered necessary. The discussion highlights the challenge of balancing intense mathematics coursework with a passion for physics, particularly when the mathematical concepts feel abstract and difficult to apply. It emphasizes the importance of selecting optional modules that align with practical applications in physics research. Students are encouraged to prioritize courses that will enhance their understanding of physical phenomena. Overall, focusing on PDEs will better prepare students for a career in experimental physics.
KevinMPM
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Hi all,

I'm currently a second year Applied Maths and Physics student. I will be specialising in Experimental physics next year.

With this, I will have no more core (mandatory) mathematics modules.

So far, I have taken, Linear Algebra I, Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra II (linear transformations, bases and dimension etc.) Multivariable Calculus, Vector Calculus, statistical modelling and probability theory.

My question is about optional maths modules. I often find maths very intense with the pace of learning and it isn't my passion so I find I have to spend longer studying it than physics modules. I often find the abstraction part of the modules difficult as I cannot apply it to anything or visualise it.

Next year, I can chose to study Complex Analysis and Partial Differentials. I am just wondering would these be necessary for a career in experimental physics research for example?

I am just growing tired of lots of maths and very little physics; this semester I am taking only one module taught by the physics department and the rest are mathematics applied mathematics and statistics. Any help would be much appreciated
 
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Complex Analysis is not necessary to know if you are interested in physics, but Partial Differentials are extremely important in any kind of section in physics, My advice is to take partial deferential course
 
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