Why do I always feel so on the other side?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by individuals studying physics, particularly those who have taken multiple introductory courses over several years. Participants agree that while the field of physics is vast and complex, with numerous theorems and proofs, a solid understanding of fundamental concepts is crucial. Over time, knowledge will coalesce, leading to greater clarity and comprehension. It is emphasized that one does not need to memorize every derivation, as many can be derived from foundational principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts and terminology
  • Familiarity with calculus and its applications in physics
  • Knowledge of fundamental theorems and proofs in physics
  • Experience with engineering physics texts
NEXT STEPS
  • Review key physics theorems and their derivations
  • Study advanced calculus techniques relevant to physics
  • Explore the connections between different physics concepts through problem-solving
  • Engage with peer discussions or study groups to enhance understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering disciplines, educators teaching physics concepts, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the interconnections within the field of physics.

Bane
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I've been an on and off physics major 7 years, (I took 7 sophmore/freshman level physics classes) and studied a lot from my engineering physics texts. However, everything I come across has something new and inventive, or a different procedure of calculus being involved. Different proofs, theorems, etc. Will this all eventually mix together, or should I just accept that there is just too much to know out there?
 
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There's two parts.

Yes, there is too much to know everything, but also, yes, things will mesh together with more and more clarity as time progresses. You can't expect to know every possible derivation to every possible theorem. And just because you see a new derivation to something you have seen before does not mean you have learned new physics necessarily.
 
All you have to do is to know the important and basic theorems and proofs and everything else will be derivable. Unfortunately there is a lot of that type.
 

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