Which subjects in theoretical physics do undergrads find most difficult?

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The discussion centers on the perceived difficulty of various undergraduate physics subjects, with participants sharing their experiences and opinions. Electromagnetism (EM) and classical mechanics are frequently cited as particularly challenging due to their mathematical rigor and the intuitive understanding required. Many believe that the complexity of these subjects arises from the need to grasp both foundational concepts and advanced mathematical techniques early in their studies. Quantum mechanics (QM) is also noted for its difficulty, often described as unintuitive, but some argue that it becomes manageable with a solid mathematical foundation. Statistical mechanics is highlighted as a tough subject, with students expressing frustration over its abstract nature and the extensive use of differential equations that seem detached from reality. The importance of effective teaching is emphasized, with many agreeing that a knowledgeable professor can significantly alleviate the challenges posed by these subjects. Overall, the consensus suggests that while some subjects are inherently difficult, the teaching quality and student interest play crucial roles in the learning experience.

Which subjects in theoretical physics do undergrads find most difficult?

  • Classical Mechanics

    Votes: 9 12.0%

  • Quantum Mechanics/Intro solid state physics

    Votes: 16 21.3%

  • Thermal Physics/Statistical Mechanics

    Votes: 16 21.3%

  • Electromagnetism/Electrodynamics

    Votes: 21 28.0%

  • Optics

    Votes: 5 6.7%

  • Astrophysics

    Votes: 3 4.0%

  • Special Relativity

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Sub atomic/particle physics

    Votes: 5 6.7%

  • Other

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Total voters
    75
  • #31
I just did stat physics and QM. I did maybe 10 times more work in stat physics then QM but pulled off smilar marks with a difference of 2 out of 100 in favour of QM. The reason was that I felt in QM the physical concepts are impossible to understand no matter how hard you try so all one needs is a good understanding of the maths. That actually meant less work as the maths in QM were relatively straight forward. Now I understand why Feynman said "No one in the world understands QM". One can only understand the maths of QM.

That is not the case with Stat mech. It is possible to understand Stat mech and quite an amazing theory one which I find deeply satisfying. To learn it one must be familar with the physics as well as the maths. Thats why I needed so much more time learning stat mech. It wasn't all just maths.
 
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