WTF? why are people comparing second semester first year physics to E&M?? you don't need to know the differential versions of maxwell's equations in physics 2 people! nor do you need calc II or multivariable calculus. calc-based physics 2 is easy peezy. stop misguiding people and deterring them from taking the class if they want to or need it for their major's requirements.. lol. you hardly even touch maxwell's equations in phys 2 (you might have to apply these equations to story problems, but you certainly don't have to realize that they are collectively the equations of maxwell and their significance in regards to the nature of light), what does that have to do with it?? maxwells' eqns in differential form arent even necessary until E&M2!
if you liked calc I, and did fine with the types of derivations in phys 1, you should be ok. but calc II isn't a nightmare like some people scare you to think; so don't shy away from taking it just 'cause taylor expansions suck when the teacher doesnt know how to teach them.
also, a lot of students find calc-based physics is better/easier than pre-med physics, because calculus is the natural way to understand and remember formulas, and pre-calc based physics involves unnecessary memorizing.
