Do you need to do A-Level Maths to do A-Level Physics?

Question

Hi, Im in the UK,

I love physics GCSE and I am hoping to study it for A-Level, the problem is that most people are saying its a bad idea if you do it without doing maths,

is this true?

Im not brilliant at maths, but I dont hate it, I am aiming for an A grade at GCSE and A* for physics, I really dont want to take maths at A-Level and I wont take it just to study physics

I am prepared to work twice as hard to do physics then another subject, but is it really a bad idea to do it without maths? I keep thinking that it cannot be impossible otherwise it would be mandatory to do maths with physics.

Answer 1

What do you learn in A Level math? Calculus?



You don't really need Calculus, UNLESS you want to understand Newton's though process and where his Laws of Motion came from.



If you need to derive Newton’s Laws of Motion, you will need basic Calculus. If you can accept and use the derived equations, than Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry is enough.



However, you must be able to see how Algebra, Geometry, and Trig apply to real world situations.



One more disclaimer: After the basic physics, the Calculus does kick in to solve problems that involve changing quantities.

Answer 2

Hello Tom,



Take all the Maths you can get. I am not sure what exactly is in the British A-Level Maths, but if you really love Physics, you need all the math you can get. If you do not take Calculus, then your are limiited to only simplistic Physics. Not sure what the other guy was saying about only needing calculus to derive Newton's laws?? There are basically two types of Physics textbooks, those for people who know Calculus and the other one for dummies.



Physics is just APPLIED Math. Period. Think of each Math technique you master as a "tool" that you can use. And these Maths "tools"applies to so many other subjects. No REAL science happens without calculus..



For any decent Physics University program, Calculus is a Pre-requisite. (And don't be scared, Calculus is so easy. They will make it SEEM very hard at first by making you solve derivative some crazy old fashioned way.....for months....and then they show you the simple way and you never use that old limit method again. Just bare with it until they show you the simple method.)



TAKE THE MATHS



Good Luck Mate.

Answer 3

You can do A-level physics wihout A-level maths - though doing A-level maths would help quite a lot.



If your basic algebra and trigonometry is good, and you can think mathematically (things like draw/interpret graphs, apply proportionality) you should be OK.



However, think what you will do after A-level. If you are looking for a course or career that involves physics then you will need A-level maths. You can't pursue physics beyond A-level without good maths (especially calculus). Think ahead!