Algebra or calculus based physics?

[BallZac]

Hello all,
I will be in my 3rd year of my undergraduate career this year (August 2013) and I am so confused on witch physics class will be more beneficial (or even if physics is beneficial at all) . I know a year of physics is required so i just wanted to get everyones input on algebra vs. calculus based physics. Ive finished my year of calculus already so i wouldn't be to concerned about a calculus based physics class but at the same time I would really like the time to finish my philosophy minor.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[amad01]

Hello all,
I will be in my 3rd year of my undergraduate career this year (August 2013) and I am so confused on witch physics class will be more beneficial (or even if physics is beneficial at all) . I know a year of physics is required so i just wanted to get everyones input on algebra vs. calculus based physics. Ive finished my year of calculus already so i wouldn't be to concerned about a calculus based physics class but at the same time I would really like the time to finish my philosophy minor.

English based physics.

It doesn't matter what physics you take. Answers to this question can be found using the search.

 

[BigBlueBear]

Algebra = Easier = Take Algebra based

 

[Law2Doc]

Algebra = Easier = Take Algebra based

This is probably accurate for admissions, so long as you cover what you are going to see on the MCAT. However if you think you might ultimately want to go into radiology or radiation oncology where physics appears on their respective board exams, a solid physics class as foundation wouldn't be such a bad thing.

 

[tyrionlannister]

In algebra-based physics I hear that you just have to memorize the formulas as they are presented. In calculus-based, you get to see how they are derived. For me, that really helped them stick: if I knew that something was an integral of a certain area or the differential with respect to another property, it was much easier to call up the relationship on the MCAT. Also it was a lot more fun. 🙂

 

[CyberMaxx]

If you are just taking physics to satisfy the pre-req, I would recommend taking the algebra-based course. Calculus-based is harder and I feel like algebra-based physics will prepare more for the MCAT. In algebra-based physics you learn a lot of shortcuts which will come in handy.

 

[phunky]

I'm a math major. An intro level physics would have been a breeze for me regardless. I chose algebra-based, because it gets you thinking for the MCAT. You won't learn anything useful, though. Just stuff that's gonna be on the MCAT.

 

[mimelim]

Rather unique situation last night, but a resident last night didn't understand concepts that would have been learned in basic calculus course to the detriment of patient care and my sleep last night. Food for thought... you will understand the world around you better if you have a basic understanding of calculus.

 

[circulus vitios]

Rather unique situation last night, but a resident last night didn't understand concepts that would have been learned in basic calculus course to the detriment of patient care and my sleep last night. Food for thought... you will understand the world around you better if you have a basic understanding of calculus.

What concept was that?

 

[TangoDown]

Generally, I've heard Algebra based is easier. Though my friend, who's a pure math major, surmises that if one has a very solid understanding of calculus in general, it might make the concepts in the general physics course more understandable.

 

[487806]

Hello all,
I will be in my 3rd year of my undergraduate career this year (August 2013) and I am so confused on witch physics class will be more beneficial (or even if physics is beneficial at all) . I know a year of physics is required so i just wanted to get everyones input on algebra vs. calculus based physics. Ive finished my year of calculus already so i wouldn't be to concerned about a calculus based physics class but at the same time I would really like the time to finish my philosophy minor.

Use a search function next time.

Calculus-based physics is much better than algebra-based physics, because you actually learn what you are doing in calculus-based physics. In algebra-based physics, you memorize a bunch of random formulas. Also, algebra-based physics is a dead-end in all of physics (which wouldn't matter in the premed case anyhow)

 

[lobo.solo]

What concept was that?

+1. Yeah, what concept was that. I'd guess that this is very specialty dependent.

 

[BigBlueBear]

I don't get why people are claiming calculus is the way to go because you "actually learn." I took a year of both versions and they were pretty much the same class. Unless you have insomnia induced by the fact that you don't know how Faraday's law is derived, who cares? I didn't even care and I absolutely love calculus.

 

[Espadaleader]

Listen. Don't listen to these people on SDN. Take Algebra Based because it is what's tested on the MCAT. Period. If you're interested in physics you can always enrich your content knowledge elsewhere. Just stay focused and keep things simple.

 

[487806]

I don't get why people are claiming calculus is the way to go because you "actually learn." I took a year of both versions and they were pretty much the same class. Unless you have insomnia induced by the fact that you don't know how Faraday's law is derived, who cares? I didn't even care and I absolutely love calculus.

Regarding E&M, you don't cover a lot of important fundamental topics (like Gauss' Law and mutual inductance) in algebra-based physics. Same thing goes for mechanics; you don't cover angular momentum (a really important topic). Calculus-based physics is generally the more "physical" approach to understanding physics. Honestly, it depends on the individual preference, but algebra-based physics is a pointless class that is all memorization and not much concepts.

Listen. Don't listen to these people on SDN. Take Algebra Based because it is what's tested on the MCAT. Period. If you're interested in physics you can always enrich your content knowledge elsewhere. Just stay focused and keep things simple.

It's completely an incorrect notion to take a prereq just for the sake of preparing for the MCAT. Calculus-based physics gives a much stronger overview of the concepts covered in physics, which is much more useful than the algebra-based physics (all memorization = zero idea what's going on).

 

[BigBlueBear]

It's completely an incorrect notion to take a prereq just for the sake of preparing for the MCAT. Calculus-based physics gives a much stronger overview of the concepts covered in physics, which is much more useful than the algebra-based physics (all memorization = zero idea what's going on).

But we will literally never use physics again as physicians (excluding Radiology). So why should someone take a harder class to "really learn" something that they will never use again, and will not prepare them any better for the MCAT?

I guess I just don't see the logic unless OP loves physics and just isn't telling us.

Also, couldn't disagree more about calculus based giving a stronger overview of the concepts. Maybe I just had a really good algebra-based teacher, but the fact that they make the concepts simpler in algebra based and it isn't cluttered with math made it much easier for me to understand. But again maybe my algebra-based was different than yours.

 

[487806]

But we will literally never use physics again as physicians (excluding Radiology). So why should someone take a harder class to "really learn" something that they will never use again, and will not prepare them any better for the MCAT?

I guess I just don't see the logic unless OP loves physics and just isn't telling us.

Also, couldn't disagree more about calculus based giving a stronger overview of the concepts. Maybe I just had a really good algebra-based teacher, but the fact that they make the concepts simpler in algebra based and it isn't cluttered with math made it much easier for me to understand. But again maybe my algebra-based was different than yours.

By that argument, organic chemistry will never be tested again in medical school. But we're still required to take it even though it can be a hard class. Calculus-based physics isn't hard. It's only perceived as hard as most premeds despise the ability to think analytically in numerous "random" problems (like blocks and charges).

I only took calc-based physics long ago, but I was tutoring those in algebra-based physics, which is why I'm familiar with this. Honestly, like you said, it's really subjective. Calculus-based physics (when applied correctly) is more about concepts and the math is just a way to present the work.

 

[deleted303591]

Choose Algebra-based physics.

I am an electrical engineering student who had to take calculus-based physics. While calculus-based physics is more challenging and will give you more in depth understanding of the material, it does not prepare you for the MCAT better than algebra-based physics.

I will have to relearn physics (mostly formulas and solving in algebraic form) for the MCAT because the solutions on the exam are based on algebra-based physics formulas. It is a waste of time to use the calculus-based techniques on the MCAT because it is more time consuming and it is more taxing on your brain.

Don't make it more difficult for yourself. Pick algebra-based physics.

 

[mimelim]

What concept was that?

Any time you need to interpret a waveform or trend data, you will benefit from a functional understanding of calculus. The example last night was a patient on a ventilator and even with 2 extra years of training, much of which was ICU as an R2, simply understanding the concept of the area under a curve and what it means meant that I was better equipped to manage a patient than them. Pressure tracings are another area, probably a couple others I could come up with as well.

As far as data trending, you will notice that the concept of a second derivative is lost on many. They understand that a drop in hemoglobin is bad, but they can't make as accurate predictions as others who understand basic calculus. It is subtle, but it is clear that people who took the minimal prerequisites are at a clear disadvantage when it comes to being a very good doctor.

This applies to anyone who does any critical care. That includes, but is in no way limited to EVERY IM, surgery, pediatric, and neurology resident that trains in this country. That makes up the lions share of the residents in this country.

I don't want there to be any confusion. Being able to integrate or take a derivative isn't useful outside of medical physics/rad onc and maybe some radiology. But, this is no different than the fact that nothing you learn CONTENT WISE in ANY undergrad biology, chemistry, biochemistry, orgo etc will help you as a physician. Many of those classes will teach you how to think and give you skills that will make you a better doctor. Will you be a doctor, not get sued and probably never notice your deficiency? Yes. But that doesn't mean that others aren't going to benefit from understanding at a higher level.

Also, couldn't disagree more about calculus based giving a stronger overview of the concepts. Maybe I just had a really good algebra-based teacher, but the fact that they make the concepts simpler in algebra based and it isn't cluttered with math made it much easier for me to understand. But again maybe my algebra-based was different than yours.

You can not understand Physics without calculus. Sorry, but you can't. Anyone that has studied a reasonable amount of Physics knows this. You are essentially learning Physics from the 1700s and then memorizing formulas derived later. The formulas are irrelevant to modern clinical medical practice. If by made the concepts easier, they helped you memorize formulas easier, then yes, it did, but I think you are missing the fact that algebra based introductory Physics doesn't actually teach concepts. It tells you formulas that hold true most of the time and then tells you to apply them.


-------------------------------------------------------------------
I am in no way saying that pre-meds shouldn't take algebra based Physics. Many students can not handle calculus based courses, some because they lack the innate ability, but far more commonly, they lack a foundation in basic mathematics and problem solving that facilitates understanding calculus from years of inadequate effort in teaching from elementary school onward. It is pointless to torture yourself with calculus based Physics if you are taking Physics because it is a prerequisite. If you are looking to get an A, do well on the MCAT and get out, then you will hurt yourself by wasting time with other things.

 

[487806]

Any time you need to interpret a waveform or trend data, you will benefit from a functional understand of calculus. The example last night was a patient on a ventilator and even with 2 extra years of training, much of which was ICU as an R2, simply understanding the concept of the area under a curve and what it means meant that I was better equipped to manage a patient than them. Pressure tracings are another area, probably a couple others I could come up with as well.

As far as data trending, you will notice that the concept of a second derivative is lost on many. They understand that a drop in hemoglobin is bad, but they can't make as accurate predictions as others who understand basic calculus. It is subtle, but it is clear that people who took the minimal prerequisites are at a clear disadvantage when it comes to being a very good doctor.

This applies to anyone who does any critical care. That includes, but is in no way limited to EVERY IM, surgery, pediatric, and neurology resident that trains in this country. That makes up the lions share of the residents in this country.

I don't want there to be any confusion. Being able to integrate or take a derivative isn't useful outside of medical physics/rad onc and maybe some radiology. But, this is no different than the fact that nothing you learn CONTENT WISE in ANY undergrad biology, chemistry, biochemistry, orgo etc will help you as a physician. Many of those classes will teach you how to think and give you skills that will make you a better doctor. Will you be a doctor, not get sued and probably never notice your deficiency? Yes. But that doesn't mean that others aren't going to benefit from understanding at a higher level.

👍👍 Good to see an insight on the applications of calculus in medicine. Best way to dispel common myths.

 

[Doudline]

You can not understand Physics without calculus. Sorry, but you can't. Anyone that has studied a reasonable amount of Physics knows this. You are essentially learning Physics from the 1700s and then memorizing formulas derived later. The formulas are irrelevant to modern clinical medical practice. If by made the concepts easier, they helped you memorize formulas easier, then yes, it did, but I think you are missing the fact that algebra based introductory Physics doesn't actually teach concepts. It tells you formulas that hold true most of the time and then tells you to apply them.

I hear this often but really don't understand where it comes from.

Having taken both algebra based and calculus based physics, I can honestly say that the only extra stuff the latter brings is learning by heart dozens of proofs and formulas' derivatives and integrals that are useless or unnecessary to the actual understanding of the concepts 90% of the time (concepts that were the exact same in the algebra based courses).

Of course, I have only taken 3 introductory classes so I wouldn't know about higher level physics, but for the prerequisites, in my experience, calculus is a blatant waste of time.

 

[BigBlueBear]

I think the take home message for OP here should be:

1) If you want the easier class and just want to do well on the MCAT, take algebra based
2) If you care about the underlying methods then take calculus based (at your own risk, it is harder)

 

[passionformed]

It actually depends on the school; in my school we use little calculus, only when it is necessary to derive a formula. Ask people who took calc based how much it helped for MCAT.

 

[BambiJD]

if you pick calculus based physics you are going to have bad time 😱

 

[mimelim]

I hear this often but really don't understand where it comes from.

Having taken both algebra based and calculus based physics, I can honestly say that the only extra stuff the latter brings is learning by heart dozens of proofs and formulas' derivatives and integrals that are useless or unnecessary to the actual understanding of the concepts 90% of the time (concepts that were the exact same in the algebra based courses).

Of course, I have only taken 3 introductory classes so I wouldn't know about higher level physics, but for the prerequisites, in my experience, calculus is a blatant waste of time.

This is usually a symptom of a very poorly taught class. All of this goes out the window when you have piss poor teachers or courses. I wouldn't say that this is purely based on calculus or no calculus. It is more that Physics is generally poorly taught. There is no point in learning Physics without Calculus. Yes, there are aspects of Physics that certainly don't require Calculus, the concept of conservation laws constraining interactions would be a good example. On the other hand, you simply can't understand that E/M fields are unified without Calculus. If a course is designed to try to teach the latter concept without Calculus, it is likely that the course skimped on the former as well, teaching memorization of formulas, not the important part that actually might benefit students.

 

[Espadaleader]

This thread is ridiculous. Let me break it down for the knuckleheads on this forum. Listen, the OP and almost everyone will have to take Calculus I and maybe Calculus II. Pre-Medical students have a strong understanding of Calculus. IF YOU WANT A IN-DEPTH OF PHYSICS AUDIT OR JUST GO TO MIT OCW. Like the Engineering guy said, the MCAT is algebra-based so it is easier for the MCAT (which is all that matters!!!!!!!). I took the MCAT got 95% on the PS but I knew my physics foundation was soft core. SO I AUDITED BIOPHYSICS.

The smart student would take algebra based physics for the MCAT

Then the smart student would audit and enrich their knowledge by taking calculus based physics

I'm sorry for yelling but I need to get my point across but you have to be smart in how you do things.

Because I took algebra based physics and audited a calculus based course I get to have an easier A and be better prepped for the MCAT and learn fundamental physics properly with calculus.

 

[Espadaleader]

I fully agree with the knuckleheads lol, but the OP should take the MCAT first then enrich his physics knowledge 🙂

 

[survivordo]

Just take algebra based unless you're into math. The end goal is to get into medical school. This will get you there with less stress.

Survivor DO

 

[487806]

if you pick calculus based physics you are going to have bad time 😱

Wrong. Your post is just reiterating the common premed myth that calculus-based physics is a dreaded course.

This thread is ridiculous. Let me break it down for the knuckleheads on this forum. Listen, the OP and almost everyone will have to take Calculus I and maybe Calculus II. Pre-Medical students have a strong understanding of Calculus. IF YOU WANT A IN-DEPTH OF PHYSICS AUDIT OR JUST GO TO MIT OCW. Like the Engineering guy said, the MCAT is algebra-based so it is easier for the MCAT (which is all that matters!!!!!!!). I took the MCAT got 95% on the PS but I knew my physics foundation was soft core. SO I AUDITED BIOPHYSICS.

The smart student would take algebra based physics for the MCAT

Then the smart student would audit and enrich their knowledge by taking calculus based physics

I'm sorry for yelling but I need to get my point across but you have to be smart in how you do things.

Because I took algebra based physics and audited a calculus based course I get to have an easier A and be better prepped for the MCAT and learn fundamental physics properly with calculus.

You're missing the essential point here. You are arguing that algebra-based physics is ideal because it will help you for the MCAT. In that case, what's the point of having a rigorous physics review for the MCAT? The physics professors don't care about the MCAT and they will make exams easier or harder based on their choosing, so often you'll ignore important material, which would otherwise be mentioned in the MCAT. Prereq classes are taken because they are prereqs, to show med schools that you can handle the college coursework. The MCAT is a different entity independent on the stuff you covered in prereqs, so restudying is commonly employed.

You are also incorrect to claim that "a smart student will take algebra-based physics for the MCAT". He/she isn't smart, just opportunistic, because the end-goal is for the MCAT, so there's a good chance a professor may overcomplicate a certain material and premeds will bomb the exam, because it wasn't MCAT-related. Algebra-based physics is a dead-end in physics, with minimal application. It solely exists because it's a safety net for all the premeds who despise math and physics, and want to have an easy A (which is usually unlikely). The only reason why calculus-based physics is stressful is because most premeds have a strong hatred to calculus (and anything math-related that requires them to think analytically), along with physics (what do blocks and charges have anything to do with medicine? Waste of time)

As mimelim pointed out, physics does have a significant application in medicine, and it is much more useful than organic chemistry, which most of you welcome with open arms.

 

[487806]

You can not understand Physics without calculus. Sorry, but you can't. Anyone that has studied a reasonable amount of Physics knows this. You are essentially learning Physics from the 1700s and then memorizing formulas derived later. The formulas are irrelevant to modern clinical medical practice. If by made the concepts easier, they helped you memorize formulas easier, then yes, it did, but I think you are missing the fact that algebra based introductory Physics doesn't actually teach concepts. It tells you formulas that hold true most of the time and then tells you to apply them.

-------------------------------------------------------------------
I am in no way saying that pre-meds shouldn't take algebra based Physics. Many students can not handle calculus based courses, some because they lack the innate ability, but far more commonly, they lack a foundation in basic mathematics and problem solving that facilitates understanding calculus from years of inadequate effort in teaching from elementary school onward. It is pointless to torture yourself with calculus based Physics if you are taking Physics because it is a prerequisite. If you are looking to get an A, do well on the MCAT and get out, then you will hurt yourself by wasting time with other things.

Calculus only came into existence when Newton wanted to analyze the properties of orbital motion (which premeds argue has nothing to do with medicine...). The bolded statement is partially correct. However, most premeds really don't have an interest in calculus or anything math-related. They can handle them if they are interested, but they believe it has remotely nothing to do with medicine... yet they have no problem taking organic chemistry.

Overall, I wouldn't be surprised if OP takes algebra-based physics. There's no problem with that, but he/she needs to understand that algebra-based physics is impractical. I made my case, but I'm sure OP won't deal with the bias from a few Rocket Scientists. 😉

 

[EnginrTheFuture]

I think the take home message for OP here should be:

1) If you want the easier class and just want to do well on the MCAT, take algebra based
2) If you care about the underlying methods then take calculus based (at your own risk, it is harder)

A) Yeah... this conclusion doesn't make much sense though. The best way to do well on the MCAT is to understand the underlying methods and principles. I'm not talking about the mathematical minutia, but the physical principles which are based in mathematical description. If an algebra based class is plug and chug where you memorize formulas, the MCAT is going to be a rough go a year later when you realize you didn't learn any physics. That would be like trying to memorize your way through Orgo for the MCAT... if you do that you're going to have a bad time. A lot of algebra based classes encourage this behavior, where understanding is not important and the pace doesn't even allow for it; Simply learn how/when to apply a formula and profit without asking why.

B) "harder" is relative. I hate plug and chug classes. They level the playing field between the people that can understand difficult concepts and people that simply memorize patterns for test taking only a.k.a "I solved this exact problem with this formula before". I hated every minute of my algebra based physics class but LOVED my calc based. People tend to do better in classes they enjoy. Every minute of my algebra based class I could not get over how stupid the style of learning was. Of course this is school dependent but I have encountered no algebra based classes that weren't plug and chug memorization based classes.

C) To bring those two points together. I did just as well in my calc based as my physics based class, enjoyed the physics based class more without having to work harder, averaged 13-14 on the PS for the 9 AAMC practice exams I took and scored a 14 on the real deal. The physics section of the MCAT was a breeze because of my physics/math background... which was all calc based and much more enjoyable/easy for me.

So I would say your takeaway points are disingenuous to the truth and what people are trying to explain are the advantages to taking calc base physics.

 

[lobo.solo]

This thread is getting ridiculous. OP, plenty of people have done both and gone to med school. That's your goal right. Besides a couple of specialties, your knowledge of in-depth calculus-physics is minimal. And even if you need more substantial knowledge about it, you can learn it later if you need to.

 

[kavorca]

I thought everyone took at least one semester of calculus in college. Most degrees have at least one math requirement I thought. If not I am pissed cause I had to take 4 semesters of a foreign language as an engineer. Bogus.

 

[KnuxNole]

I thought everyone took at least one semester of calculus in college. Most degrees have at least one math requirement I thought. If not I am pissed cause I had to take 4 semesters of a foreign language as an engineer. Bogus.

In general or as a pre-med student? In general...definitely not(at least at my school 😛)

On the plus side, if a patient comes to you with the foreign language you took, at least you'll know what some of the words coming out of their mouth mean. Might not be meaningful, but still!

 

[kavorca]

I meant in general. I think at my school there was a one semester math requirement and I think it started at calculus. If you wanted they would break calculus I into 2 semesters to slow it down, but it was still calc.

 

[deleted303591]

This thread has been derailed by individuals' opinions about the "importance" of physics and is not goal-oriented, which is what the OP really needs.

Calculus-based physics teaches you problem-solving skills, especially when it comes to setting up problems. However, it is a waste of time and effort, especially if you are not a physics major or an engineering student.

I will have to relearn formulas in algebraic form, and employ new problem solving methods when studying for the MCAT. This is not particularly difficult. It is just time consuming.

The OP might as well take algebra-based physics as a pre-req, and also in preparation for the MCAT. The OP should not make it harder for himself by taking a more difficult, time-consuming class that will require the use of different formulas and problem solving techniques on the MCAT. Also, at my school, some calculus-based physics courses have a 90% drop rate. I am not exaggerating at all.

I do not believe in relying on your pre-req coursework as a "review" for the MCAT. Since the MCAT is technically a weed-out exam (whether you want to believe it is or not), you are going to have to relearn all of the material to fit the caliber and scope of the exam questions. The key is to use problem solving techniques and to know the material in such a way that you take less time and feel comfortable answering the exam questions. After all, this is an endurance exam, too.

 

[Temerit]

Same thing goes for mechanics; you don't cover angular momentum (a really important topic).

I've only taken mechanics so far, but we covered angular momentum and then some in my algebra-based class. I'm inclined to think you're wrong. :/

OP, I would recommend algebra based physics unless you just truly enjoy the subject and want to be more challenged. The classes cover the same material, but algebra based stuff is what you will see on the MCAT. The only main difference is that in calc based physics you will be competing against physics majors and engineers for a good grade.

 

[BigBlueBear]

It seems to me that the people pushing for calc-based physics are the ones that have engineering backgrounds and who just want to take pride in the fact that they did well in calc-based physics.

For the record, I too am an engineer, did very well on PS, took calc-based physics, etc. But I think you all are deluding yourselves if you think that algebra-based isn't easier and will prepare the OP just as well for the MCAT.

 

[Jewels86]

I've thoroughly read through ALL these and they're all great words of wisdom!!

I'm still very confused though:😕

I'm in algebra-based physics now and am "dying on the vine". It's NOT the math; I really like math. It's the concepts. They don't make an ounce of sense. I've worked out problems after problems but when a new problem is introduced, exam time, it's as if I'm climbing a rope with greasy hands.

So, with that, would calc-based physics be "right" for someone like myself? I did superb in trig (and liked it).

 

[487806]

I've thoroughly read through ALL these and they're all great words of wisdom!!

I'm still very confused though:😕

I'm in algebra-based physics now and am "dying on the vine". It's NOT the math; I really like math. It's the concepts. They don't make an ounce of sense. I've worked out problems after problems but when a new problem is introduced, exam time, it's as if I'm climbing a rope with greasy hands.

So, with that, would calc-based physics be "right" for someone like myself? I did superb in trig (and liked it).

Yeah, take it because you're interested. Glad to see someone agreeing with me that algebra-based physics is a pointless, mathematically-deprived dead-end course with a stronger focus on memorization. Calculus-based physics will definitely help you to understand the fundamental concepts better.

It seems to me that the people pushing for calc-based physics are the ones that have engineering backgrounds and who just want to take pride in the fact that they did well in calc-based physics.

For the record, I too am an engineer, did very well on PS, took calc-based physics, etc. But I think you all are deluding yourselves if you think that algebra-based isn't easier and will prepare the OP just as well for the MCAT.

The aim of any college course has nothing to do with preparing for the MCAT. And while algebra-based physics may seem easier, it's an impractical, meaningless course that premeds usually take to avoid the dreaded aspect of applied calculus and analytical thinking.

 

[rain4venus]

If you feel really comfortable with calculus, calc-based physics will be easier. If you don't feel comfortable with calculus, algebra-based physics will definitely be easier.

Calculus-based physics is "better" for many students not because it's so important to truly learn the subject matter, but because if you understand where the formulas are coming from, then you're more likely to remember them and have an easy time applying them.

Example: A projectile follows a path of y(x) = 72x + 3 - 6x^2. What is the highest point the projectile reaches?
calc-based: just find where the derivative is zero: 72 -12x=0 => x=6
algebra-based: memorize the formula for the the vertex of a parabola and plug in: x=-b/2a => a=-6, b=72 => x=-72/-12=6
Then either way plug 6 back into the original. y(6) = 72(6) +3 - 6^3 = 219

Both ways are plenty easy, it's just that if the first way is intuitive for you, then you should have no problem recalling and applying the knowledge on the MCAT and probably saving you the time of trying to remember a completely random formula (-b/2a comes from the quadratic equation, which I have to sing in my head every time I have to use it).
If it's not intuitive, then you're much better off memorizing the second equation, even though it might take you a couple extra seconds over a math whiz.
Of course, the example I used is basically the absolute easiest possible example, so don't assume calc-based will be easier for you just because you know to find the derivative of a quadratic...

TL;DR: If you're asking this question, math is probably not your most beloved subject, and you probably want to take Algebra-based Physics.

 

[ToldYouSo]

Calculus only came into existence when Newton wanted to analyze the properties of orbital motion (which premeds argue has nothing to do with medicine...). The bolded statement is partially correct. However, most premeds really don't have an interest in calculus or anything math-related. They can handle them if they are interested, but they believe it has remotely nothing to do with medicine... yet they have no problem taking organic chemistry.

Overall, I wouldn't be surprised if OP takes algebra-based physics. There's no problem with that, but he/she needs to understand that algebra-based physics is impractical. I made my case, but I'm sure OP won't deal with the bias from a few Rocket Scientists. 😉

Be careful with the calculus statement b/c the argument can get ugly, newton wasn't solely responsible for its development and if you go into any math forum you can find people debating it. As far as the OP, the obvious choice is to take whatever physics you will get the highest grade in. Find out which prof teaches it the easiest and take that section. If you really want to learn physics, do what another poster said and learn it on your own at MIT ocw, most learning takes place on your own anyway.

 

[487806]

Be careful with the calculus statement b/c the argument can get ugly, newton wasn't solely responsible for its development and if you go into any math forum you can find people debating it. As far as the OP, the obvious choice is to take whatever physics you will get the highest grade in. Find out which prof teaches it the easiest and take that section. If you really want to learn physics, do what another poster said and learn it on your own at MIT ocw, most learning takes place on your own anyway.

I know, but that statement was what most people are familiar with. Of course, you could argue that Newton extended Kepler's work, or that the Bernoulli brothers and Leibniz co-invented calculus in a geometrical aspect. I'm pretty aware of the whole Newton-Leibniz debate, but that wasn't my point.

 

[mimelim]

Be careful with the calculus statement b/c the argument can get ugly, newton wasn't solely responsible for its development and if you go into any math forum you can find people debating it. As far as the OP, the obvious choice is to take whatever physics you will get the highest grade in. Find out which prof teaches it the easiest and take that section. If you really want to learn physics, do what another poster said and learn it on your own at MIT ocw, most learning takes place on your own anyway.

Ya, for real, don't be shorting Leibniz! 😉

 

[obscurehero]

To the OP.

If you already took calculus and did reasonably well. You'd be an idiot not to take the calc-based physics course. Truly.

If you did really poorly, then take the algebra course.

 

[Flashfan]

My small LAC only has calculus-based physics that is known for an impossible grader. How bad will it look if I take the algebra-based physics class at another university in summer?

The professor has never given more than 1 A each semester. I was willing to tough it out, but from reading SDN it seems like the science GPA is too important to risk a B.

 

[487806]

My small LAC only has calculus-based physics that is known for an impossible grader. How bad will it look if I take the algebra-based physics class at another university in summer?

The professor has never given more than 1 A each semester. I was willing to tough it out, but from reading SDN it seems like the science GPA is too important to risk a B.

Take the algebra-based physics. Good grades are always way more important.

 

[obscurehero]

Take the algebra-based physics. Good grades are always way more important.

ugh...

really? When giving the choice between learning something well and grades, I really wish I lived in a fantasy reality where learning something right mattered more...

 

[487806]

ugh...

really? When giving the choice between learning something well and grades, I really wish I lived in a fantasy reality where learning something right mattered more...

I understand that, but working hard just to receive a grade that would lower the GPA/sGPA is counterproductive and harmful in the long run, which was implied.

 

[obscurehero]

I understand that, but working hard just to receive a grade that would lower the GPA/sGPA is counterproductive and harmful in the long run, which was implied.

It's still depressing.