How to Study Physics in School? Is Physics Really That Hard?
Physics is no doubt one of the highest-scoring subjects. Having said that, it is also true that understanding physics isn’t an easy feat. In fact, some students have a hard time even getting the basic concepts of physics. So, that brings up a question that is physics hard? Well, physics isn’t really a hard subject. What students find difficult is to use the concepts of physics in practical problems.
Basic Representation of Physics
Physics isn’t just all about the numbers, people. This subject forces you to come out of your comfort zone and think about abstract concepts and represent those concepts using concrete mathematics. Hence, one thing is clear. If you want to master the subject of Physics, it is important to know maths a little bit.
Basic Maths That You Need to Know to Learn Physics
Physics is a subject that requires high numerical literacy. However, there are some specific mathematical concepts that you need to clear out if you want to master the subject. Here is a list describing the important mathematical ideas you need to learn for basic physics concepts.
Trigonometry
The concepts of trigonometry can help a lot with physics for sure. You should be able to figure out the tangent, sine, and cosine of any particular angle with ease. This can help you with electromagnetics and magnetics too. It is also important to keep the sums of force vectors as well as the angle in mind. In the case of physics, you don’t just have to figure out the distance and the speed of an object. You will also have to know its angle of ascent and descent plus its trajectory. This is where trigonometry can help you out.
Calculus
The topic of calculus is an essential part of learning physics. Now there are some chapters that you can do without the calculus part. However, it is important that you learn the different concepts related to calculus since it is an important part of the calculation of the acceleration of any object at a certain point in time. Instantaneous acceleration forms a very important part of physics and with calculus, you can get that topic easily. Also, with a strong knowledge of calculus, you will be able to master the topic of rates of changes in different values such as displacement, velocity, momentum and much more.
Geometry
Physics deals with dimensional study and geometry is something that can help you understand that topic very easily. You will be able to understand the difference between 2, 3, and 4-dimensional objects if you have a sense of geometry. Also, you will need the knowledge to calculate different volumes and areas of shapes and figures in Physics. So, no doubt it is one of the most important parts if you want to know how to understand physics.
Basic Physics Concepts That You Need to Develop
Learning the basics of physics is important if you want to master the subject. Here we have a detailed list of basic physics concepts that you need to tackle first to develop a sound understanding of the subject.
Laws of Motions
Before you delve into the modern concepts of physics such as general relativity and quantum mechanics, you need to know the basic Laws of Motion by Newton. Whether it is sound waves, electromagnetism or classical mechanics, the Laws of motion are an important component of every topic.
Conservation of Energy
If you want to know how to study physics and understand it, you need to master the concept of the Conservation of Energy. Namely, the law of Thermodynamics, transfer of energy, and other concepts should be nailed into your brain for the best results. Most of the problems related to physics are related to the total energy in a particular system. These concepts will help you deal with the questions easily.
How to Learn Physics Concepts: Essential Tips
While most students find physics difficult to understand, these tips mentioned below will help them in their journey to master the subject easily.
Know the Basic Terms of Physics
Are you familiar with the difference between voltage and current or velocity and speed? Do you know how force and momentum differ from one another? Do you know the definition of distance and displacement? If not, then you need to learn these definitions and terms as soon as possible. While you might use these words interchangeably, it is the definitions that make them different and that is what physics is all about.
Try to Describe Things in Your Own Way
We believe that it was Albert Einstein who said that if you aren’t able to explain something in a simple language, then you haven’t understood it properly. This goes for the concepts of physics as well. Do you know why physics is hard for some students and easy for some? It is because they know how to describe the concepts of physics in an easier way. Rather than recalling the words you read about the laws of motion, try thinking about them and describing them in your own way. This will surely help you understand the concept better.
Learn to Express an Idea Mathematically
As we have mentioned before, physics demands a high knowledge of mathematics. So, it is pretty obvious that every single concept that you learn in physics can be explained using a mathematical formula. So, you need to be able to represent any word problem into an equation to be able to master physics as a subject. Only then will you be able to delve deeper into finding the solution.
Do Not Memorise
What is the point of practical applications of physics if you are just going to memorize everything? While basic formulas and concepts cannot be changed, you need to make sure that you’re able to figure out the crux of the formula, rather than cramming it. The formulas are merely tools to save you sometime during calculations. The real knowledge lies in the concept and you cannot memorize a concept, can you?
Conclusion
Learning the basics of physics might be hard if you don’t have a strong enough foundation for the subject. However, with these helpful tips and enough mathematical acumen, you will quickly be on your way to learning physics like a true academic.
