Proficiency
Tests
The purpose of these practice tests is to help build your proficiency
in the area of mathematics. It is a compilation of the minimum
requirements that students should know according the appropriate
grade level.
Mathematical
Thinking in Physics
Essays, discussions and case studies of various mathematical
cases including answers to questions like "How fast is
the speed of light?", and "What if an asteroid hit
the earth?"
An
Introduction to Tensors for Students of Physics and Engineering
Tensor analysis is the type of subject that can make even the
best of students shudder. My own post-graduate instructor in
the subject took away much of the fear by speaking of an implicit
rhythm in the peculiar notation traditionally used, and helped
us to see how this rhythm plays its way throughout the various
formalisms. Prior to taking that class, I had spent many years
“playing” on my own with tensors. I found the going
to be tremendously difficult but was able, over time, to back
out some physical and geometrical considerations that helped
to make the subject a little more transparent. Today, it is
sometimes hard not to think in terms of tensors and their associated
concepts. This article, prompted and greatly enhanced by Marlos
Jacob, whom I’ve met only by e-mail, is an attempt to
record those early notions concerning tensors. It is intended
to serve as a bridge from the point where most undergraduate
students “leave off” in their studies of mathematics
to the place where most texts on tensor analysis begin. A basic
knowledge of vectors, matrices, and physics is assumed. A semi-intuitive
approach to those notions underlying tensor analysis is given
via scalars, vectors, dyads, triads, and higher vector products.
The reader must be prepared to do some mathematics and to think.
For those students who wish to go beyond this humble start,
I can only recommend my professor’s wisdom: find the rhythm
in the mathematics and you will fare pretty well.
Aeronauts
2000
While following the adventures of two curious teens, BJ and
Pete, students will have a chance to work on, improve, and enhance
their math and science skills through practical application.