Physics...algebra or calculus based???

[ekristek]

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What would you recommend? Algebra based or calculus based physics? I would prefer algebra-based, but I'm not sure which would be best for the MCAT. While we're on the subject, has anyone taken physics during a summer course? How did that go? Thanks. 🙂

 

[spacecadet]

Trig-based physics will suffice for the MCAT. Make sure your class has a lab since many schools require physics w/ lab. Personally, I don't think there's any reason to take the Calculus-based course.

 

[ekristek]

Spacecadet,

That's music to my ears!

 

[cm7b5]

Just take the one that will give you an A.

 

[Cobragirl]

You won't need calc-based physics for the MCAT or in med-school! Cut yourself a break!

I took non-calc myself....

 

[rxfudd]

I took calc based. Ugh. Got and A first semester and a B the second, which really follows the order of difficultyof the course. Mechanics w/calc is not hard at all. E&M, on the other hand, is very very difficult. If you take the calc based route, be prepared to do lots and lots of integrals. I recommend non-calc based if physics doesn't fascinate you.

 

[Jon Davis]

Do some schools actually require calc-based phys? Or just a year of phys in general just suffice?

 

[rxfudd]

Depends on your major - usually gen phys will suffice.