<p>So, after the long time of limbo of figuring out my major I settled on Physics with a geophysics minor. Well, I'm looking at the degree plan and it is telling me to take Calc 3 and Diff EQ in the same semester. I thought this was not even possible. Anyone know a physics major here who could explain this to me?</p>
<p>Also what is the difference between MATH 221 and MATH 251??</p>
<p>You can’t take Diff eq without 251 or equivalent (221).
From TAMU’s Math Department
"Ordinary differential equations, solutions in series, solutions using Laplace transforms, systems of differential equations. Prerequisites: MATH 251 or equivalent; knowledge of computer algebra system. "
[MATH</a> 221, Department of Mathematics, Texas A&M University](<a href=“http://www.math.tamu.edu/courses/math221/]MATH”>MATH 221, Department of Mathematics, Texas A&M University)
[MATH</a> 251, Department of Mathematics, Texas A&M University](<a href=“http://www.math.tamu.edu/courses/math251/]MATH”>MATH 251, Department of Mathematics, Texas A&M University)</p>
<p>It looks like 221 will delve more into theory and be more demanding. The content looks widely the same. I took 251 and it is straight applications. Hardly any theory, even less proofs then 151 and 152. I took Diff eq and got an A, you will be prepared with Math 251.</p>
<p>I understand where you get that information, but unfortunately for me the curriculum sheet has me taking 251 and 221 concurrently. A physics major I have talked to has said that this is common for physics majors. It is just kind of surprising, and I don’t know how to really prepare for this.</p>
<p>Wait, 251 and 221 concurrently? Because Diff eq is Math 308, not 221. Math 221 and Math 251 concurrently, would basically be two of the same class.</p>
<p>Edit: I’m guessing that was a typo. I just looked at the physics curriculum and you’re 100% correct. That’s interesting to say the least. I’ve only seen the order Cal 1, Cal 2, Cal 3, Diff Eq. I’m guessing the physics department knows what’s best. Honestly, you do not use Cal 3 in differential equations, and I’ve never understood why it was a prerequisite anyway. Diff eq is completely different then the calculus courses. </p>
<p>If there are any physics majors on here, I’m curious behind the reasoning. </p>
<p>Also, email your academic adviser.</p>
<p>I made a typo and meant 308.</p>
<p>Did you find Diff. Eq difficult? Know of any decent profs?</p>
<p>I made a typo and meant 308.</p>
<p>Did you find Diff. Eq difficult? Know of any decent profs?</p>
<p>I didn’t find 308 very difficult. People get burned in that class because they figure they can not study and do fine, which they could do in calculus since they’ve seen it in high school. However, 308 is something where you have to do the practice problems or you will have no idea what’s going on. I did the suggested problems and was golden for the year. The book used is not very good, so make sure to buy the solution manual, it helps alot.</p>
<p>I had William Rundell. His lectures were pretty bad, but if you got an A on the first two tests (after the curve) and an A on homework (together) you did not have to take the final. The last part made him awesome.</p>