A question about mathematics textbooks for physicists

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Florian Geyer
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SUMMARY

Physics students should prioritize studying mathematical methods books as they provide essential knowledge for understanding physics. Key textbooks recommended include Boas' "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" for undergraduates and Arfken, Weber, and Harris' "Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers" for graduate students. Advanced texts such as Bender and Orzag's "Advanced Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers" and Thirring's "Classical Mathematical Physics" are also noted for their depth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate mathematical resources based on individual specialization and the distinction between mathematical physics and physical mathematics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mathematical methods in physics
  • Familiarity with key textbooks such as Boas and Arfken
  • Knowledge of the differences between mathematical physics and physical mathematics
  • Basic grasp of advanced mathematical concepts relevant to physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Boas Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" for foundational knowledge
  • Explore "Arfken, Weber, and Harris Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers" for graduate-level insights
  • Investigate "Bender and Orzag Advanced Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers" for advanced mathematical techniques
  • Examine the differences between mathematical physics and theoretical physics for a clearer understanding of their applications
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone involved in the study of mathematical methods in physics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those seeking to enhance their understanding of the mathematical foundations necessary for advanced physics studies.

  • #31
Just looked at my copy of Snider, since my nephew was going to take a class based on it.

Yup, my opinion has not changed. Readable but very pedestrian. Marsden at the same readability, is superior.

I can see why departments choose Snider. It introduces Tensor notation, a bit superficially, which is useful for engineering/physics majors.

But one can skip the tensor sections, its more of an after thought in my opinion.
 
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  • #32
The " Snider Insider" was also on the list of books with (almost) anagramed titles.
 
  • #33
bhobba said:
In my opinion, the book, as mentioned by others, is Boaz. I suggest it even for mathematicians, followed by Hubbard, who adds rigour (if that is your thing):
https://matrixeditions.com/5thUnifiedApproach.html

Thanks
Bill
Hubbard is an amazing book. But one should download the errata and correct book before reading.

This can be forgiven since its clearly a book written out of love, and its self published.

I am less forgiving of the big house publishers charging an arm and legg for sucky books.


Quality of materials is excellent. They dont make books like this anymore.
 
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  • #34
WWGD said:
The " Snider Insider" was also on the list of books with (almost) anagramed titles.
Im too dumb to understand what you wrote lol.
 
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  • #35
MidgetDwarf said:
Im too dumb to understand what you wrote lol.
Not worth much thinking about it ;).
 
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