...Because my AP Physics textbook says so!!

[Big Rob]

Physics that does not use calculus is really physics that DOES use calculus. They just do not use the simplified rules for differentiation, but instead give forumulas for each individual case.

In essence, physics without calculus is harder, and requires a ton more memorization, then physics with calculs.

Umm... have you seen the course layouts for both calculus based intro physics courses and non? There's absolutely no comparison, which should be obvious given that the calculus version is marketed to engineers and science/physics majors.

 

[yasic]

Umm... have you seen the course layouts for both calculus based intro physics courses and non? There's absolutely no comparison, which should be obvious given that the calculus version is marketed to engineers and science/physics majors.

When I say physics, I mean first level physics, in which I really mechanics, mabey a little optics.

In which case, I took both calculus based physics, and non-calculus based physics, and arrived at this conculsion.


I do not know the workings of higher level physics that does not use calculus, so you may easily be right.

 

[Brennin]

Physics that does not use calculus is really physics that DOES use calculus. They just do not use the simplified rules for differentiation, but instead give forumulas for each individual case.

In essence, physics without calculus is harder, and requires a ton more memorization, then physics with calculs.

If you want to do Medieval physics, then, no, you don't need calculus.

 

[Brennin]

They didnt offer a calc-based physics class... But seeing as i am in calculus right now, i probably would have taken it! Still... not bad for a junior in high school.

Good for you. Although, don't get a big head. The fact that you are an "exception" is more of a testament to America's abyssal mathematics education than anything else.

 

[Robert the Pilegrim]

If you want to do Medieval physics, then, no, you don't need calculus.

Newton did all his work both with and without calculus.
Calculus makes life much easier for some calculations.
OTOH much of particle theory has much more to do with abstract algebra.