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Mathematical VS Experimental Physics

  • 30-09-2011 11:47am
    #1
    MarkTheBaby
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 100 ✭✭


    So... I have one week to chose between doing mathematical or experimental physics. I'm going to be dropping physics next year so it's just for the year. I'm doing Biology, Maths and Computer Science. ATM I'm doing both phyics subjects.

    What are peoples opinions on first year physics?

    Which one do people think I should go for?

    Does the maths physics department have good support or workshops for struggling students?


Comments

  • #2
    Mastroph
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 81 ✭✭Mastroph


    I did both mathematical and experimental physics in first year, and I'd say if you're just doing it for the year you'd probably get more out of experimental physics. Mathematical physics can be a bit too abstract for some people, experimental physics is a bit more hands-on and deals with more "real world" ideas. That said if you're more of a mathsy type of person you might enjoy mathematical physics more.

    Both departments will help you any way they can, there's no need to worry there. It's down to preference really, pick whichever subject you enjoy more, you'll find it much easier that way. Good luck! :D


  • #3
    rcaz
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,034 ✭✭✭rcaz


    I'm in final year of my BA with Mathematical Physics. I absolutely love it. Mastroph is right that it's really abstract which I know a lot of people have trouble with, but a bit of hard work gets you through it and you end up really completely changing the way you think about things. It's tough and confusing, maybe a little moreso than experimental would be, but I think it's definitely worth it.

    I never had any classes in experimental physics though so I can't really judge.


  • #4
    lemansky
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 970 ✭✭✭lemansky


    As above, if it is just for one year then keep in mind that the EP department have to cover the highlights of the leaving cert physics course (plus some), but most critically they can't use any calculus. If you prefer the more mathsy approach, then MP is for you, if you want to cover a broader range of topics then EP is the one.

    Beyond first year, I always found EP to be the hardest by far.


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