Post by Admin on Mar 9, 2017 15:13:57 GMT
Question: I have difficulties with math, but I like reading popular physics books such as the ones by Brian Greene or by Michio Kaku. Should I major in physics?
Answer: If you have difficulties with arithmetics, such as, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, that's fine. Arithmetics don't matter at all. In your future physics research, you will always be able to use calculators, or computers. I even read an account that a very successful mathematician did not remember the multiplication table, because he had been home-schooled when he would have been a elementary school student. But, if you have difficulties with high school math or calculus, you should seriously consider giving up your dream to become a physicist. I have an impression that high school math or calculus is much more crucial than high school physics in learning college-level physics. If you can't score minimum 600 in your SAT math no matter how hard you try, you should seriously think about giving up your dream to become a physicist. I also recommend that you get B or better in college calculus or 4 or better in AP Calculus, if you are serious about becoming a physicist.
Please also read my earlier answer to the question "I am not good at physics, but I want to major in it." in this FAQ. The explanation and the argument there carry over to this question. Here is the URL:
physicsandmath.freeforums.net/thread/3/good-physics-major
Answer: If you have difficulties with arithmetics, such as, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, that's fine. Arithmetics don't matter at all. In your future physics research, you will always be able to use calculators, or computers. I even read an account that a very successful mathematician did not remember the multiplication table, because he had been home-schooled when he would have been a elementary school student. But, if you have difficulties with high school math or calculus, you should seriously consider giving up your dream to become a physicist. I have an impression that high school math or calculus is much more crucial than high school physics in learning college-level physics. If you can't score minimum 600 in your SAT math no matter how hard you try, you should seriously think about giving up your dream to become a physicist. I also recommend that you get B or better in college calculus or 4 or better in AP Calculus, if you are serious about becoming a physicist.
Please also read my earlier answer to the question "I am not good at physics, but I want to major in it." in this FAQ. The explanation and the argument there carry over to this question. Here is the URL:
physicsandmath.freeforums.net/thread/3/good-physics-major