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Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Thu May 12, 2011 4:57 pm
by AriAstronomer
Hey everyone,
How indepth do I need to be memorizing formulas? Let's say, for instance, there is a moment of intertia problem, am I going to be expected to memorize the various moments (sphere, hollow sphere, rod, cylinder, etc.)?

Thanks,
Ari

Re: Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Thu May 12, 2011 6:36 pm
by physguy
Yes, you'll need to know those. However, the recent exams have given you those on the front formula sheet.

Honestly, this test is all about memorizing formulas. Basic ones, you'll need to know the whole formula. Harder and more complicated formulas, you'll only need to know the general characteristics of the equation.

For example you'll only need to know the hydrogen energy levels go like 1/n^2.

Re: Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Fri May 13, 2011 12:15 pm
by quizivex
physguy wrote:Honestly, this test is all about memorizing formulas.
If all they have to do is memorize formulas, isn't it funny how so many students still struggle with the test? There aren't that many formulas in physics.

Re: Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Fri May 13, 2011 2:31 pm
by AriAstronomer
Thanks for the advice guys, I appreciate it.

Re: Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Fri May 13, 2011 2:39 pm
by physguy
quizivex wrote:
physguy wrote:Honestly, this test is all about memorizing formulas.
If all they have to do is memorize formulas, isn't it funny how so many students still struggle with the test? There aren't that many formulas in physics.
Depends on how much you memorize vs. derive. You only get 1.7 minutes (I think) a problem. Sure, you could start with Maxwell's equations and derive the rest of E&M from there. Not suggested though. But you're right in that a good portion of the test can't be answered from simple memorization.

That said, I used these to study:

http://www.phys.cwru.edu/flashCards/

Those and the practice tests were an excellent study combination. Much better I think than re-reading intro textbooks.

Re: Memorizing Formulas

Posted: Fri May 13, 2011 3:55 pm
by AriAstronomer
Hmmm, very interesting...
I think I'll shoot them an email and ask for some flash cards, thanks a bunch!

Ari