<p>Which one is better to take? I am currently registered to take Phy 2048 but I really haven't heard much about the difference between them.</p>
<p>Depends on your major and whether you feel like being hardcore 
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<p>48 - use calc
53 - use algebra</p>
<p>Generally, 53 is considered hard than 48, but 49 is considered harder than 53.</p>
<p>I’ve always heard the opposite of what ASMAJ said.
2053 doesn’t use any calculus, whereas 2048 does. 2048 is geared towards engineering/science people who will be using the basic physics of these courses in their courses later on. 2053, on the other hand, is geared towards life/social science people who don’t generally “care” about physics too much. It only makes sense that the 2048 sequence would be more difficult…</p>
<p>53 is harder because equations may not make sense, and you have no form of deriving. Even if you don’t know calculus, the calculus of 2049 is simple. Just know that x = space, or distance. dx/dt = velocity, d^2x/dt = dv/dt = acceleration. There’s more material in 2049 because some derivations are part of the course, but that will also increase understanding.</p>
<p>My premed friends tell me that 2048 is easier then 2053, but then 2049 is harder then 2054, same as what ASMAJ said. If you know calc, then take 2048. Obviously if you’re in an engineering major you have to take 2048, but I imagine if you’re asking then that isn’t the case.</p>
<p>This is interesting. I always thought that physics without calc would be less difficult than physics with calc. However, because 2048 is full of engineering students, wouldn’t the curves on tests be less lenient. I have already taken calculus and therefore may in fact take 2048, especially if it is considered easier.</p>
<p>If you are adept in understanding velocity is the integral of acceleration, you will be straight in 2048.</p>
<p>Ok I am taking your word on this…</p>
<p>There are differences, but they don’t really matter much. The “calculus” of 2048/2049 is pretty insignificant and miniscule. Don’t sweat it. The labs for 2048/2049 and 2053/2054 are the same as well.</p>