<p>Would it be more beneficial for me to take calculus based physics rather than regular physics? And really, what's the major difference besides using calculus to solve problems rather than algebra? </p>
<p>Honestly it doesn’t make much a difference and it’s up to you but if you’re doing it just to satisfy your pre-req or prepare for your MCAT, I’d suggest general physics. </p>
<p>If you have a good working knowledge of calculus, then calculus-based physics may be easier to understand in that the instructor does not have to work around the lack of calculus in a non-calculus-based physics course. E.g. how do you explain the relationship between velocity and acceleration to students who know calculus, versus explaining that to students who do not know calculus?</p>
<p>If you are concerned about grades, calculus-based physics will have physics and engineering majors as your competition, while non-calculus-based physics will have biology majors and pre-meds as your competition. The latter are probably weaker students on average in physics, but may be more cutthroat grade-grubbers.</p>
<p>If you know calculus, you may want to take calculus-based physics. If physics isn’t your strong point, or if you don’t want to major in physics, either or might be fine.</p>
<p>The difference is that certain physics problems or derivations require some use of calculus.</p>