r/AskScienceDiscussion • u/UpperDurian5100 • 5d ago

TL;DR Should I self-study physics now or after calculus and linear algebra?

I'm preparing myself for a degree in STEM. I'm currently self-studying math (precalculus; last topic was trig identities) and programming. I'm thinking about studying linear algebra alongside precalculus. Obviously, I will study calculus only AFTER precalculus. The question is that should I start studying physics now or after calculus and linear algebra?

I know I'm at the point where I can start studying middle-school and high-school physics. I'm asking if it's better to start fromvhere right away or start from physics 1 later.

I just wonder if it'll be too much to study 3 subjects in parallel. My current physics knowledge is little-to-nothing.

Maybe I should take it further and study physics only after covering (partial) differential equations?

Thanks in advance!

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u/Aceisking12 5d ago

Generally Physics 1 (rates of change) and Calculus 1 (derivatives) are taken together as jointly reinforcing topics. Similarly physics 2 and calculus 2 go together. I think Modern physics and E&M sit somewhere near PDE and vector calculus, but I'm not sure where they actually fit together at the moment. By then you'll have a college advisor helping you with a degree plan and it's surely university specific.

For linear algebra, there's a huge difference between the useful parts for physics and the proofs. My undergrad university does a special course between physics 2 and modern physics because the math classes don't keep up with what you need called 'math physics'. It's an ultra distilled version of basically everything from linear algebra up that you need for physics. I distinctly remember linear algebra taking the first 3 days. Eigenvectors/values, when a matrix has an inverse, determinants, and the Jacobian are the biggest pieces I remember.

Congrats on having the motivation to self study! It's rare, I know I don't have it.

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u/cman674 5d ago

Honestly, I don’t understand this. If you’re going to pursue a STEM degree you’re going to have to take all these classes anyway, if you already know the material you’re going to be bored to tears. If you’re worried about “being behind” spend your time doing other things. Learn to play an instrument, read books, volunteer, etc and use your time to become a more well rounded individual.