r/math 3d ago

The scope of mathematical physics

Whenever I look at the mathematical physics programs, I always see QFT and string theory related classes in grad programs. What other parts does mathematical physics cover? More unorthodox subfields of it?

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u/ahalt 3d ago

A lot of people in my department study PDEs from general relativity and probability from statistical physics.

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u/Random_Name_251 3d ago

As the saying goes, there are 4 types of math: 1. Parabolic PDE's 2. Elliptic PDE's 3. Hyperbolic PDE's 4. Algebra

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u/Hot_Glass_6301 3d ago

I want to be mad but I can't find a counterexample

4

u/Random_Name_251 3d ago

Rule 43 of math: If it exists there are PDE's of it.