Physics 1st, Chemistry 2nd, Biology 3rd, but what maths to take before physics?...?

Question

My sister's in her first year of college. She tried to take biology, but on her 1st day, the teacher explained to the class that if they hadn't already taken chemistry, they would have a rough time in her biology class. My sister dropped the class a week later due to complete confusion. She then attempted chemistry, but also ended up dropping out of it within the 1st week since she never took chemistry or physics in high school; and doesn't even understand what an atom is! Yes, the school system has failed her, what to do now? I found that physics, since it's the basis for understanding the more abstract concepts introduced in chemistry and biology, would be the best starting point for her. But, physics (along with all sciences) requires lots of math. My sister's taking college algebra right now. My question is, what math courses/subjects are recommended to take/learn before taking a college physics course (assuming no prior chemistry or biology courses have been taken)? thanks

I'd appreciate if I could get input from those already established in their scientific fields (doctors, scientists, professors..etc) if that is possible.

also, she may want to major in biology.

P.P.S. Although i'm also interested in a degree in physics and biology, i'm not using my sister as a cover for a question that's really for me..lol She really is in this situation and I want to give her some sound advice

Answer 1

Trig, Applied Calc, Real Calc.

For a 1st level Physics class, you really don't need that much math (compared to other classes). It helps though if you take physics AFTER taking math instead of CONCURRENTLY taking math. That way you have time to get it all down rather than experimenting with numbers while you're trying to learn about physics.

Usually Bio is the easiest followed by Chem followed by Physics. Bio requires a ton of memorization, but not so much math while chem requires a middle amount of each while the math isn't terribly difficult.

Answer 2

You really need calculus to do well in physics, I found. I don't agree with your train of thought on this subject. Physics should not be taken before Biology or Chemistry. I would suggest your sister take some sort of summer Biology and/or Chemistry classes, then retake those courses during the next semester. They really are the introductory classes, or foundation classes for the Biology degree. Without a strong foundation in these two courses, your sister will not make it as a Biology major. The classes only get more difficult and more involved as time goes on. Perhaps your sister is not meant to be a Biology major? I am not trying to be mean or discourage her/you in any way, but it is a very difficult major. Not only is the material difficult, but it is also time consuming. I had to put my social life on the backburner in college in order to do well in my studies. Not only are there classes, but there are also labs, about 4 hours a week. Science majors are generally in class about 8-12 hours more a week than their friends. How does your sister know that she wants to be a Biology major if she never took it in high school? Maybe she should take some classes in all different subjects and see if Biology is really what she wants. If it is, she going to have to put in A LOT of time and effort to accomplish her goals. Good luck to her.

Answer 3

I don't know if this helps you any but this is how I've learned things and been able to understand the more complicated things little by little.I took Algebra 1 and Physical Science (like physics only simpler) my freshmen year of high school. My sophomore year I took Biology 1 and Algebra2. My junior year I had Chemistry and took an Advanced Math class the first semester and college algebra the second semester. I'm a senior (high school) this year and I'm in physics and Biology 2. It all kinda ties in together and helps to start learning the little things first so you can work your way up.

Answer 4

All maths is important but she should focus on mainly:

Calculus - appears in almost every area of physics in some form
Vector Calculus - Vectors again appear all over physics and vector calculus is very important.
Pure Mathematics - Things like; Geometry, Trigonometry, Algebra etc. The need to formulate and manipulate equations is an integral part of physics.

Basically any modules that cover subjects such as: vectors, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, algebra, differential equations, complex numbers, matracies etc
Any mechanics is also handy