Why is calculus needed for physics?

Models do not tell us anything about concepts, but concepts explain the models. Physics instruction without calculus can impede understanding the concepts because the model is constrained to algebra. The models of the concepts require calculus.

Is physics based on algebra?

Most physics classes (both algebra- and calculus-based) start by doing “kinematics” – just describing the motions of objects when they have either constant velocity or constant acceleration.

Is algebra based physics easier than calculus based?

Yes and no. Physics works much better with calculus. The math and concepts make way more sense in relation to calculus than straight algebra or trig. That being said, physics is still physics.

How do calculus and physics relate?

For physicists, math is a tool used to answer questions. For example, Newton invented calculus to help describe motion. For mathematicians, physics can be a source of inspiration, with theoretical concepts such as general relativity and quantum theory providing an impetus for mathematicians to develop new tools.

Why is calculus useful Reddit?

In the UK you don’t even study limits or how they relate to the operations of calculus: just straight into learning to compute the power rule, very frustrating and I’m sure your daughter is in the same boat if she wants to understand it rather than just learn it by rote.

What is algebra based physics?

Algebra based physics is learning physics that pretty much only uses algebra (some trig). Calculus based physics uses calculus. So basically your class is an intro to calc based physics. You learn all the concepts of physics without messing around with all the math. If you don’t know any calculus, then it will be hard to explain the benefits of it.

Do you prefer calculus or algebra physics?

Sometime calc based physics is easier. They allow you to use a formula sheet whereas algebra based ones make you memorize the formulas. They don’t really do calc in calc based anyways. They show the derivations in lecture but it’s not as if you have to actually use calculus to solve problems.

What is the difference between Calculus I and Calculus II Physics?

What really makes calc based Physics I different from algebra based Physics I is not the calculus, but the use of the dot and cross products (most algebra based physics courses don’t teach this). Now when you get to Physics II, the calculus makes a huge difference, because you can finally learn Maxwell’s equations.

Is physics without calculus a mess?

Without calculus you can’t go very far in physics. Or just about anything that uses math- business, engineering, social sciences etc. I’ve been told that algebra based physics is an ugly mess whereas calc based physics is nice, elegant, and actually easier. This was told to me by my precalc teacher. Not really. Neither of them are really a mess.