<p>How big is the difference b/w Math 107 and 104X? Is
107 actually easier than 104X?</p>
<p>Comparing 107 +108 / 104 + 131: which is a better sequence to
learn differential equations? (I'm assuming 2nd is better for
linear algebra)</p>
<p>I am a potential physics major, and wanted to take 104,
but it didn't fit my schedule. So I have to choose b/w 107 and
104X, neither of which I am excited about b/c one is jeered
towards applications and the other is too abstract. (BTW
Prof. Bianca Santoro is teaching 104X)</p>
<p>Right now I deeply regret not following the new
math majors track, 104 and 105[Vector Calculus] b/c physics dept.
recently updated its website, recommending this sequence, as well.
Also, math dept seems to reserve best profs for math majors.</p>
<p>So this semester I took 103, and the class atmosphere and
professor were both horrible experience, and I want to choose
Spring math course right, or else, I think I'll begin to hate math. </p>
<p>I am so torn b/c physics dept said that Linear Algebra is important
to know really well. But this year, they are using Linear Algebra Done
Right by Axler in 104X, which is ultra super abstract. </p>
<p>I can't really help you on which is better but I do have to say that you shouldn't let the Duke math department make you hate math. I'm an engineer and I took up through 108 and I hate the Duke math department. But I really do like math. I'm of the opinion that the Math department is one of the areas of Duke that needs heavy revitalizing. (no offense to math majors, it could just be the engineering math sequence that I don't like)</p>
<p>I'm actually a math major who started out in the engineering sequence and did Math 107 and Math 108.</p>
<p>Are you planning on being a math major? If so, Math 104 might be better just in terms of understanding linear algebra in a more theoretical sense. In 107 you will learn basically all the same essential material. You may not learn it in a FULLY abstract sense but even in Math 107 you'll have to encounter a few fundamental theoretical aspects such as vector spaces. 107 also does a really good job of showing how linear algebra can be used to solve differential equations which I don't think 104 goes into at all.</p>
<p>Math 107 is basically taught like a high school calculus or math class. You learn material, solve problems and a few proofs here and there.</p>
<p>I'm not sure if physics is heavily dependent on a theoretical or applied course. I think both 107 and 104 are good in their own way. I don't regret taking 107 because I had a phenomenal teacher and I feel like I gained a lot from that class.</p>
<p>I think you just might want to send an e-mail or talk to your physics DUS or talk to your advisor.</p>