The discussion revolves around recommendations for learning physics, particularly for someone who has not received adequate instruction in high school and is preparing for a future career in astronomy and physics. Participants explore various resources, including books, textbooks, courses, and online materials, suitable for both basic and deeper understanding of physics concepts.
Participants generally agree on the importance of foundational mathematics, particularly calculus, for studying physics. However, there are varying opinions on the best approach to learning physics, including the value of dual enrollment versus traditional college pathways, and no consensus on specific resources has emerged.
Participants mention prerequisites for community college physics courses, which may depend on individual mathematical proficiency. There is also a lack of consensus on specific textbooks or online materials that would be most beneficial for the original poster's learning journey.
Hunter1234 said:Unfortunately, I was never taught proper physics in my high school, but I have always had an interest in the subject. Do you guys have any recommendations for books/textbooks, courses, online material, etc. for understanding physics at a basic and deeper understanding?
Oh, I should've mentioned I am going to pursue a career in astronomy and physics, but I am currently 17 and have yet to graduate high school. My high school physics class was a joke, and I am really just wanting to learn physics before I head off to college.Student100 said:Enroll in university in pursuit of a physics degree. If your grades aren't good enough to be accepted anywhere, go to community college first.
Maybe not enough time between now and when you enter college. If you are advanced with Mathematics, then maybe dual enrollment might be possible, but the most likely course of Physics for you at the community college would be either Elementary Physics, or the beginning Mechanics course for Physics 1 for the science & engineering students. The first one requires Intermediate Algebra and s little Trigonometry. The second one requires through first semester Calculus and more Trigonometry.Hunter1234 said:Oh, I should've mentioned I am going to pursue a career in astronomy and physics, but I am currently 17 and have yet to graduate high school. My high school physics class was a joke, and I am really just wanting to learn physics before I head off to college.
I have plenty of time. I have finished all my high school credit hours, but instead of graduating early, I am going to be applying to many colleges throughout this year and will be doing dual enrollment. Dual enrollment was how I got finished so quickly. I am self-taught in most things I do, so if you guys have any textbooks or online material you recommend, that would be appreciated.symbolipoint said:Maybe not enough time between now and when you enter college. If you are advanced with Mathematics, then maybe dual enrollment might be possible, but the most likely course of Physics for you at the community college would be either Elementary Physics, or the beginning Mechanics course for Physics 1 for the science & engineering students. The first one requires Intermediate Algebra and s little Trigonometry. The second one requires through first semester Calculus and more Trigonometry.