Will chemistry classes go towards a physics degree?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether chemistry courses count towards a physics degree and the appropriate sequence of physics classes relative to calculus coursework. Participants explore the requirements for physics majors at different institutions and share personal experiences regarding the relevance of algebra-based versus calculus-based physics courses.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants believe that general chemistry I and II are required for a physics major, while others note that requirements vary by institution.
  • One participant suggests that taking algebra-based physics first is beneficial for understanding concepts, while another argues that calculus-based physics is more advantageous and less repetitive.
  • Several participants mention that their schools have different requirements regarding chemistry and physics courses, indicating that students should verify with their specific institution.
  • One participant expresses that they found calculus to be the easiest part of their physics class, suggesting that the integration involved is minimal.
  • There is a suggestion that students should not wait to complete calculus II before starting physics, as the integration concepts may not be heavily utilized in early physics courses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of chemistry for a physics degree, as opinions vary based on individual school requirements. There is also disagreement on the value of algebra-based versus calculus-based physics courses.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of checking specific university requirements, as the discussion reflects varying institutional policies regarding course prerequisites and degree requirements.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a physics major, those transitioning from chemistry to physics, and individuals seeking advice on course sequencing in STEM fields may find this discussion relevant.

cj2222
Messages
14
Reaction score
0
I've taken general chemistry I and II, and i was planning on becoming a physics major. I just wanted to know if i wasted my time taking chemistry or if it will go toward a physics degree at most schools.

I havnt taken any physics classes yet but should i wait until i finish calculus II and take the calculus based physics or start out with the algebra based classes?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
cj2222 said:
I've taken general chemistry I and II, and i was planning on becoming a physics major. I just wanted to know if i wasted my time taking chemistry or if it will go toward a physics degree at most schools.

I havnt taken any physics classes yet but should i wait until i finish calculus II and take the calculus based physics or start out with the algebra based classes?

I think its required to take general chemistry I and II for a physics major. I wonder this as well because I'm taking General chem. 1 and my major will be physics. BTW, you should take the algebra based physics classes first because they really train you to understand the concept of physics a lot. I took Intro. to physics I and II, thus; I gained a good grasp of physics. Its all about being patient and get your feet wet, or you can jump right into the pool.
 
I personally don't see a point in doing an algebra based course. The classes themselves are going to be pretty similar, so you'd just be doing the same stuff over and over. Calculus just allows you to make some more calculations than just algebra (like instantaneous rates of change). In fact in my physics courses (which I'm taking right now so I don't have post-knowledge) I think the calculus is the easiest part of the class.

At my school we take Physics I and Calc 2 together. The integrals I see are pretty basic so there's not much problem.

As for chemistry. I think most schools require at least a semester of chem if not both for physics majors. I know for myself (EE major) I took just Gen Chem I but the physics majors take both.
 
I am a physics major and chem I and II along with their labs were both required.

Also, I'd take physics I along with calc I. No need to wait until until II is over. I think in my physics I class (calc based) I integrated maybe once. You really only need to understand what an integral and a derivative are.
 
I don't think my university requires any chemistry for a physics major. however, everyone needs to take like 3 courses in the natural science category, which chemistry falls under. the point is each college is different. Ask your counselor or look at the major in your schools catalog. It should tell you exactly what you need.
 
Depends on the school. Why are you asking us, instead of asking your advisor, or checking out the school website?

Oh, and take calc-based physics. Algebra physics is a waste of your time.
 

Similar threads

Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 43 ·
2
Replies
43
Views
10K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K