Anyone have a good Physics Book?

[derek.basler]

I've read a lot of the "popular" physics book, i.e. Brief History of Time, Relativity, Elegant Universe, etc. I want something more, perhaps explaining why things work with math and what not. Maybe not so popular, yet intriguing none the less. Does anyone have any ideas?

 

[Nabeshin]

Physics is a pretty broad topic... And unless you're looking for a mathematical overview of a lot of basic physics topics (mechanics, thermo, electricity), it doesn't sound like you're interested in a physics textbook. Most of the books I've seen that aren't afraid to get into the mathematics of situations are pretty specialized, such as Quantum Mechanics or Stellar Structure.

Your mathematical background as well as any specific topics you may be interested in will greatly help to find a book that will will enjoy.

 

[derek.basler]

well id like Quantum mechanics, but mostly string theory and things along that line. even nuclear/particle physics.

 

[Nabeshin]

String theory, and "things along that line" are extremely intense mathematical theories. If you're looking for a more underlying, rigorous explanation of some of the ideas presented in say, Greene's elegant universe, I believe you'd have to spend years studying in the university to get to that point.

 

[Hunterbender]

I agree with Nabeshin.

I would recommend that you start looking into conventional physics (mechanics, thermo, or astro) first before trying to read texts (not the popular novel, but actually text) on superstring theory. Quantum mechanics wise, all the books I have are pretty advance in terms of the mathematics. But my suggestions would be Quantum Mechanics for scientists and engineers, Quantum Kinetic Theory and Application (vasko), and the Physics of Quantum Information (Ekert, Zeilinger)

Basic Ideas and Concepts in Nuclear Physics (K. Hyde) is a relatively easy text for nuclear.

 

[Daverz]

At the risk of sounding like a broken record...

The Feynman Lectures on Physics

If you have a some calculus under your belt. Also, old editions of Resnick & Halliday from the 60s or 70s.