Math Help for Physics Undergrad: Advice Needed

In summary, you are seeking advice on how to improve your math skills for your physics undergraduate degree. You are a student in the US and are currently in your third year of your physics program. You have taken math classes up to this point, and your grades in those classes were largely satisfactory. However, you have stated that the math in physics is a different language than mathematics in mathematics, and you think that learning the language would be key to succeeding in physics.
  • #1
astrofanatic
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TL;DR Summary: help with math for physics undergraduate degree - advice needed

Hello! I'm studying physics for my undergraduate degree. I have a question, and if anyone can help I'd truly appreciate it. I have problems with the math part. I love physics (concepts, research, findings) but i do definitely need help with the math part. I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
 
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  • #2
It's not clear what's the nature of the help you are seeking. You should be more specific.
 
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  • #3
astrofanatic said:
I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
What does "give me tile" mean?

Which mathematics courses have you taken and how well did you do in them (i.e., your grades)?
Are you currently a university student?
If so, what year are you in?
 
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  • #4
Mark44 said:
What does "give me tile" mean?
I wondered about that too, so I did a Google search on give me tile but that basically got me to the Home Depot website. Sigh.

Then I tried slang: give me tile and let's just say that it returned something NSFPF... :wink:
 
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  • #5
astrofanatic said:
TL;DR Summary: help with math for physics undergraduate degree - advice needed

Hello! I'm studying physics for my undergraduate degree. I have a question, and if anyone can help I'd truly appreciate it. I have problems with the math part. I love physics (concepts, research, findings) but i do definitely need help with the math part. I really want to graduate from this degree, so can someone please give me tile?
I think, i.e. it is my opinion, that mathematics in physics is a different language than mathematics in mathematics. It can help a lot if you consider this since learning a language is different from learning theorems. There are a lot of technical aspects in the mathematics of physics: coordinates, indexes, and bases (vectors) are everywhere and a lot of the mathematics around them are techniques to handle them: Einstein notation, tensor notation, raising and lowering indices, (partial) derivatives as basis vectors, adjoint, hermitian, unitary operators, matrices, and so on. As a physicist, you primarily learn the methods to deal with them. Of course, you need to know the differences between those and roughly what they are. But if a physicist says curvature, then he thinks of a tensor. However, a tensor for a mathematician is multilinear in the first place, and not at all anything curved!

So my advice is: consider the math you need for physics as a language that physicists use to communicate. Learn that language, not that math. It is a mathematical language so you cannot avoid all the mathematics behind it, but its usage differs in both fields.
 
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  • #6
berkeman said:
I wondered about that too, so I did a Google search on give me tile but that basically got me to the Home Depot website. Sigh.

Then I tried slang: give me tile and let's just say that it returned something NSFPF... :wink:
I tried a Google search on give me tile and got the same results. I followed your suggested search and learned a few things. I must be slow this morning, I can't figure what NSFPF means, lol.
 
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Not Safe For PF :wink:
 
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berkeman said:
Not Safe For PF :wink:
Similar to NSFW -- not safe for work
 
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@astrofanatic the last time you had posted was in the following thread:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...ing-to-graduate-on-time.1051710/#post-6875791

From the previous thread, it appears that you were struggling with one of your physics classes, which turns out to be a prerequisite for your other physics classes.

I have the following questions:

1. Are you a student in the US? If not, where are you studying?

2. How far along are you in your physics program?

3. What math classes have you taken thus far? What were your grades in those?

I would suggest you answer these questions to us before we are in the position to offer any constructive advice.
 
  • #10
Mark44 said:
What does "give me tile" mean?
I read it as a typo for "give me time". But we'll need the OP to confirm. Of course, the OP could be replacing flooring and needs donations. :oldbiggrin:
 
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FAQ: Math Help for Physics Undergrad: Advice Needed

What are the essential math topics I need to master for undergraduate physics?

For undergraduate physics, you should be proficient in calculus (both single and multivariable), linear algebra, differential equations, and vector calculus. These areas form the foundation for understanding most physical concepts and solving physics problems.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills in physics using math?

To improve problem-solving skills, practice is key. Work through a variety of problems, starting with simpler ones and gradually tackling more complex scenarios. Focus on understanding the underlying principles and how to apply mathematical techniques to solve them. Additionally, studying worked examples and discussing problems with peers or instructors can provide new insights and approaches.

Are there any recommended resources for learning the necessary math for physics?

Yes, there are several excellent resources. For calculus, "Calculus" by James Stewart is highly recommended. For linear algebra, try "Linear Algebra and Its Applications" by Gilbert Strang. For differential equations, "Elementary Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems" by Boyce and DiPrima is a good choice. Additionally, "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Mary L. Boas is a comprehensive resource that covers a wide range of mathematical topics relevant to physics.

What strategies can I use to better understand the mathematical derivations in my physics textbooks?

To better understand mathematical derivations, take the time to carefully follow each step and ensure you understand the rationale behind it. Don't hesitate to go back and review fundamental math concepts if needed. It can also be helpful to work through the derivations on your own, writing out each step and noting any assumptions or approximations made. Collaborating with classmates to discuss and explain derivations to each other can also reinforce your understanding.

How important is it to understand proofs in the math used for physics?

While understanding proofs can deepen your comprehension of mathematical concepts, it is not always essential for solving physics problems. In physics, the emphasis is often on applying mathematical tools rather than proving them. However, having a basic understanding of why certain methods work can enhance your intuition and ability to tackle novel problems. Focus on understanding the key ideas and how to use them effectively rather than getting bogged down in every detail of the proofs.

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