Why Are Greek Letters in PChem Different from Textbook Versions?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the differences in the representation of the Greek letter sigma as used by a physical chemistry professor compared to standard representations found in textbooks and online resources. Participants explore the implications of these discrepancies in academic settings, particularly in relation to graduate school expectations.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the professor's version of lowercase sigma resembles a number 6 with a curl, differing significantly from the textbook version.
  • Another participant asserts that the professor's symbol is not sigma at all.
  • One comment suggests that the professor's handwriting may be affected by a physical condition.
  • A participant describes the symbol as a mix between sigma and zeta, mentioning an alternate form of sigma used in word-final positions, but still finds it different from the professor's version.
  • Another participant agrees that the professor's version appears to be an exaggerated form of sigma.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the necessity of adhering to the professor's specific style, questioning the validity of the claim that it is essential for graduate school.
  • A later reply highlights the social pressures in graduate school regarding the proper representation of Greek letters, recommending compliance with the professor's request despite the lack of necessity.
  • One participant humorously suggests that the symbol looks like a funky delta.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the validity of the professor's representation of sigma, with no consensus reached on whether it is acceptable or necessary to use his version. Some participants challenge the professor's insistence, while others acknowledge the social pressures associated with notation in academic settings.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the professor's specific notation and its acceptance in academic contexts. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of Greek letters and their representations, as well as the social dynamics within graduate education.

glassslippers
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Hi,
So my PChem professor writes lowercase sigma similar to a number 6 with a curl on the top...(picture attached) To me this looks nothing like the sigma used in my textbook, computer or anywhere online I can find (similar to an o with a horizontal line on top). He insists we use his version of the figure because when we go to grad school we will be "looked down on" if we don't use proper Greek figures. I have no problem with his figure, if it is the correct one. Can anyone explain the discrepancy?
00sigma.PNG
 
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That's no sigma.
 
Maybe your professor has the palsy in his hand.
 
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Yes, I think that 's right (sigma σ), his tip was just upped and curved too much.
 
I can see how a sigma ended up like that but I would never guessed it to be a sigma had I not read your post.
 
Unfortunately, bullying and social exclusion due to imperfectly written greek letters is a common problem in grad school. So, while it shouldn't be necessary, I recommend you do as your professor tells you and write the sigmas properly so you won't be singled out.
 
Looks like a (funky) delta to me.
glassslippers said:
He insists we use his version of the figure because when we go to grad school we will be "looked down on" if we don't use proper Greek figures.
Okay, I can understand catching some flak for using unconventional notations/symbols. But if he is earnestly suggesting that his specific style is what you should use, I'm honestly quite skeptical.
 

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