I'm kind of angry: In dire need of guidance for self-teaching basic physics

[Raizy]

I am enrolled in ILC independent study to earn a Gr. 11 Physics credit. I took gr. 10 science as a prerequisite but it turns out I'm stuck right now on Chemistry and the Physics section as I forgot everything from grade 9. This angers me because ILC takes forever (there is a lot of stuff I need to learn that I don't really need). I don't even really need these credits as I'm already in a college preparing for my actual college program (Academic Upgrading). The college program's (Electromechanical Eng. Technology) only requires college math and english as a prerequisite - no mentioning of physics at all. It still doesn't make sense the program does not require any physics prerequisites regardless if it's only a "technology" course. To be safe, I have made it another objective to try and learn as much basic physics as I can before Fall terms starts.

I have three very important questions:

1. Do I need some chemistry for understanding physics? I am not talking about dealing with the tiniest behavior of particles, but rather real-world application like, "the amount of *blah blah blah* to power a robotic arm" or "if a car that weights x is traveling at y ... etc. etc." basic type of stuff like that.

2. What kind of books should I be looking for to learn basic physics?

3. Should I drop out of the ILC course and just buy a good quality textbook for basic physics? I've already spent 40 bucks on one course, and since I'll need gr. 9 I'll have to spend another 40, and then plus another 40 for the gr. 11 Physics course materials. This totals to 120 bucks already -- a price of a decent textbook. And precious time is wasted. Every day counts.

I feel like crap :( I'm so confused on what to do. I really don't want to wait an extra 4 months if I end up not finishing my prerequisites on time.

 

[mgb_phys]

1. Do I need some chemistry for understanding physics? I am not talking about dealing with the tiniest behavior of particles, but rather real-world application like, "the amount of *blah blah blah* to power a robotic arm" or "if a car that weights x is traveling at y ... etc. etc." basic type of stuff like that.

I would have though the other way around. It depends on if you consider atoms and electrons and so on as chemistry or physics.
If you just mean do I have to remember stuff like the atomic number of Sodium or which nitrates are insoluble to be a physicist = no.
However if you mean I don't want to learn all that stuff about atoms/electrons etc because it isn't directly relevant to solving mechanics problems = are you sure physics is the right subject?

2. What kind of books should I be looking for to learn basic physics?

Do a search here - the most common ugrad intro textbook in the US seems to be Halliday+Resnick in it's many forms. Get a couple of editions old one cheap - intro physics hasn't changed much in the last 5years even if they do keep bringing out new editions.

3. Should I drop out of the ILC course and just buy a good quality textbook for basic physics? I've already spent 40 bucks on one course, and since I'll need gr. 9 I'll have to spend another 40, and then plus another 40 for the gr. 11 Physics course materials. This totals to 120 bucks already -- a price of a decent textbook. And precious time is wasted. Every day counts.

That depends on you, how you learn, the purpose of the course and it's content.

 

[charng]

I understand your frustration and anger towards the situation you are facing. It can be overwhelming to try and teach yourself a subject like physics, especially when you feel like you have forgotten everything from grade 9. However, I want to assure you that it is possible to learn and understand basic physics concepts even without a strong background in chemistry.

To answer your first question, yes, some basic understanding of chemistry can be helpful in understanding physics concepts, particularly in the areas of energy and matter. However, it is not a prerequisite for learning basic physics. As you mentioned, you are not dealing with the smallest particles, so a general understanding of chemistry should be sufficient for your studies.

As for your second question, there are many good books available for self-teaching basic physics. Look for books that are specifically designed for beginners and have clear explanations and examples. You can also look for online resources such as videos and tutorials to supplement your learning.

Regarding your third question, it ultimately depends on your learning style and resources. If you feel like you can learn better from a textbook and have the financial means to purchase one, then it may be a good option for you. However, if you prefer a structured course and need guidance from a teacher, then sticking with the ILC course may be a better choice. You could also consider finding a tutor or joining a study group to help you with your studies.

In the end, the most important thing is to stay motivated and determined to learn. Physics may seem daunting at first, but with dedication and hard work, you can definitely succeed. Don't be too hard on yourself and remember to take breaks when needed. I wish you all the best in your studies and future endeavors.