Any good physics books with the maths as well

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on finding popular science books that effectively integrate physics with the necessary mathematics. A recommendation for MIT's OpenCourseWare (OCW) is made, particularly the 18.01 calculus course, which serves as a foundation for introductory physics courses 8.01 and 8.02. It's suggested that engaging with OCW can complement A-Level studies, although school classes should remain a priority. The book "The Road to Reality" by Roger Penrose is highlighted as a suitable choice, as it aims to present complex physics concepts alongside the requisite mathematics, though it may be challenging without a solid calculus background. Other resources mentioned include additional physics texts and the "Mechanical Universe" series, which are suggested to enhance understanding and appreciation of physics. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a strong mathematical foundation to grasp advanced physics concepts effectively.
KeplerJunior
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I have read a lot of popular science books which have given me good knowledge about physics but none seem to have the maths. I want to know if there's any you can recommend that have the physics and the maths behind the physics. I'd prefer them to not be to complex but if that's not possible i don't mind.
 
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Have you ever used MIT's OCW? I've briefly taken a look at their 18.01 course and throughout C1-C4 of A-Level mathematics, you will cover roughly 3/4 of the material they cover there. 18.01 is a prerequisite for their two introductory physics courses, 8.01 and 8.02. Why not go through 18.01, seeing as it will probably help you for A-Level maths as well, and then try doing 8.01 and 8.02! Actually, you might see *part* of 8.01 in your mechanics modules as well!

I am not suggesting that you neglect your classes at school at all. Make those your priority. If you'd like good grades at A-Level, I suspect that a combination of your classes at school and past exam questions will be better preparation than either course. Nevertheless, I think you will be served well by OCW. All three courses mentioned are on OCW Scholar (basically, it's a special variant of the course that is designed for independent study) as well.
 
I am currently reading (and blogging about) the popular physics book: The Road to Reality - by Penrose.

He claims two things. This is a book for the lay reader and that he is not going to skip the math. I think he accomplishes the second task. If you have taken a calculus series, you will probably get a lot out of this book (be prepared to see a lot of advanced math!)

From what I read in your post, this book seems to be just what you are asking for. It contains a ton of (theoretical) physics, the really deep and interesting kind. He builds up all the math you need for it, which is also very deep and interesting in itself. Don't be put off by it's length; all the chapters are fairly short and that makes it manageable.
 
I'd say Penrose, these three books:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/3642214517/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1461407052/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0964350440/?tag=pfamazon01-20

& the mechanical universe:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mechanical_Universe
http://documentaries-plus.blogspot.com/2010/08/mechanical-universe.html
will turn you into a physicist. It only took the first four chapters of Penrose to convince me to go back to college but had I the other three books things would have been a bit better.
 
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Thanks these are exactly what i''m looking for
 
I took a look at the road to reality in the bookshop today. It looked quite complicated are you sure i'll be able to understand it. The mechanical universe courses look good by the way thanks for showing me them.
 
No way in the world, that's why you buy it.
 
sponsoredwalk said:
No way in the world, that's why you buy it.
:smile: true
 
KeplerJunior said:
I have read a lot of popular science books which have given me good knowledge about physics but none seem to have the maths. I want to know if there's any you can recommend that have the physics and the maths behind the physics. I'd prefer them to not be to complex but if that's not possible i don't mind.

Really, trying to short-cut the normal sequence of learning physics is difficult. Look at the usual undergrad curriculum for physics. Two to three calculus classes and a linear algebra course are required to understand anything in physics past general hand-waving. You don't have to do them all before starting to learn the real basics of physics, but that is what you are looking at if you want to get anywhere.

Penrose will be an exercise in frustration if you don't have this (and more).
 

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