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How smart do you need to be to study physics?
If a person wanted to get a degree and particularly a graduate degree in physics or mathematics, you have to be intelligent. I would say you would have to be in at least the 96th percentile ranking in intelligence to have a positive outcome with schooling in physics or mathematics.
What should I know for physics?
The 4 most fundamental physics concepts
- Classical mechanics (the laws of motion) If you’ve studied any sort of science, you’ve probably heard the story of Isaac Newton sitting under an apple tree and formulating the basic laws of motion.
- Electromagnetism.
- Relativity.
- Thermodynamics.
What math do you need to know for physics?
Calculus. Calculus will help you solve many physics equations. You’ll start with single variable calculus, then progress to multivariable calculus. The latter is extremely relevant to physics because you’ll work with directional derivatives and similar concepts in three-dimensional space.
What makes you a good physicist?
Physicists should: Have strong scientific ability. Have a methodical, analytical approach to work. Be able to think clearly and logically.
How do I know if I’m good enough for a PhD in physics/mathematics?
Physics/mathematics is a human institution. The standard is made by humans. You will know if you are good enough through and only through competition with other people. In my experience, if you can manage to make yourself a first-class student consistently in a reasonably good university, then you definitely are OK.
Do you think mathematics and physics is just something for extremely smarts?
There are too many people who think mathematics and physics is just something for extremely smart people. What they miss out on is that it is just like a sport or most other subjects. If you spend enough time with it and you are determined to make it, then you will make it. Maybe you will not get a Nobel prize (or for mathematics, fields medal).
How do I know if I’m good enough to go to University?
You will know if you are good enough through and only through competition with other people. In my experience, if you can manage to make yourself a first-class student consistently in a reasonably good university, then you definitely are OK. How high you can fly in your future career is a matter of luck.