can you be bad at math and do theoretical physics, astronomy, cosmology?
2007-04-24 13:26:28 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Simply put, no.
To get an undergraduate degree in physics, you need to take (and do well in)
3 semesters of calculus (up to multi-variable)
1 semester of diff eq's
1 semester of applied math (linear algebra, complex analysis, and some subject-specific skills)
Every physics majors course you take in college will suck for you if you don't like math. The pain just gets worse if you take an advanced degree.
If you like physical science, but not math, you might consider geology. You need some math, but not quite so much. They don't call it "rocks for jocks" without reason.
2007-04-24 13:30:08 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, but you have to make up for it in other ways. Einstein could not learn Calculus, but he was still one of the most brilliant theorists in the history of physics. Personally, I think a lot of upper level math is nothing more than doing problems that are not applicable to any real world situation or theory. So, some upper level math is a complete waste of time. I would say that the few most important math areas are: algebra, calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra. If you know and can apply those four, you should do fine.
2007-04-24 13:35:09 · answer #2 · answered by msi_cord 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Mathematics is a tool for studying physics.Theoretical physics,astronomy,cosmology require a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics.It is better you choose some other subject
2007-04-24 14:19:29 · answer #3 · answered by ukmudgal 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes.
Einstein was a theorist.
Physics is so complicated today that there are theorists and mathematicians working the issues.
2007-04-24 13:31:36 · answer #4 · answered by David L 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋