AP Physics B with a Calculus Based Book?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of using a calculus-based physics textbook, "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway and Jewett, for studying AP Physics B (Algebra Based). Participants explore the relationship between AP Physics B and AP Physics C, the content coverage of the textbook, and alternative resources for exam preparation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that AP Physics C is a more advanced form of AP Physics B, focusing in-depth on mechanics and electromagnetism, while AP Physics B covers a broader range of topics including thermodynamics and optics.
  • Others argue that the Serway textbook does not adequately cover essential topics for AP Physics B, such as electromagnetism and modern physics, which may hinder preparation for the exam.
  • A participant mentions that while the Serway book might help with mechanics, a solid understanding of electromagnetism is crucial for success on the AP Physics B exam, citing a high prevalence of electromagnetism questions in past exams.
  • Some participants recommend seeking additional resources, such as AP study guides or borrowing textbooks from libraries, to supplement the Serway book.
  • One participant recalls their experience with the exam, suggesting that it is possible to achieve a high score with a good foundation in mechanics and electromagnetism, despite the limitations of the textbook.
  • Another participant mentions that Giancoli's physics book is a good alternative resource for studying physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the adequacy of the Serway textbook for AP Physics B preparation, with some asserting it is insufficient while others believe it could be used effectively with additional resources. The relationship between AP Physics B and C remains a point of discussion without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Limitations noted include the Serway textbook's lack of coverage on certain topics relevant to AP Physics B, and the potential need for supplementary materials to fully prepare for the exam.

UnleashedFury
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Hi, I'm studying AP Physics B (Algebra Based) on my own, and I have a calculus based book: Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Serway and Jewett. I haven't taken calculus yet, and I don't want to spend $100 on another textbook (I got this one from a friend).

Does AP Physics C (Calculus based) add to Physics B or is it a more advanced form of physics B and will it be possible to use this book with no knowledge of calculus, and can I use it for the AP Physics B exam?

Thanks!
 
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UnleashedFury said:
Hi, I'm studying AP Physics B (Algebra Based) on my own, and I have a calculus based book: Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Serway and Jewett. I haven't taken calculus yet, and I don't want to spend $100 on another textbook (I got this one from a friend).

Does AP Physics C (Calculus based) add to Physics B or is it a more advanced form of physics B and will it be possible to use this book with no knowledge of calculus, and can I use it for the AP Physics B exam?

Thanks!

Most calculus-based textbook do not cover modern physics (hydrodynamic, atomic physics, etc) for physics B.
 
APB is more general and covers many more areas like thermo, nuclear physics, and optics. None of it is too challenging, but its probably not in your textbook. APC goes very in depth on two subjects: mechanics and E&M. If you don't want to buy another textbook, you should get some sort of AP guide to study for the other things
 
yeah you can't use Serway's book to study for ap physics B. it doesn't cover E&M and modern physics. If you need books to study for the ap physics B, you can always borrow books from the library or even try asking if your physics teacher will give away books for free. They might do that if they have too many books
 
proton said:
yeah you can't use Serway's book to study for ap physics B. it doesn't cover E&M and modern physics. If you need books to study for the ap physics B, you can always borrow books from the library or even try asking if your physics teacher will give away books for free. They might do that if they have too many books

High school and public library doesn't have a very complete collection of science book in general. At least in my HS and local library, they didnt have any book for college level class
 
UnleashedFury said:
Hi, I'm studying AP Physics B (Algebra Based) on my own, and I have a calculus based book: Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Serway and Jewett. I haven't taken calculus yet, and I don't want to spend $100 on another textbook (I got this one from a friend).
You might be able to get away with a 5 if that book covers mechanics and electricity and magnetism. When I did the exam in 2006 about 95% of the multiple choice questions were electromagnetism questions. Well, maybe that's an overexaggeration, but there were a lot of electromagnetism questions.
Does AP Physics C (Calculus based) add to Physics B or is it a more advanced form of physics B and will it be possible to use this book with no knowledge of calculus, and can I use it for the AP Physics B exam?
Well, Physics C's mechanics section is about the same as Physics B's, plus angular momentum, some calculus problems and a few other additions. It isn't too bad. I can't say the same about electromagnetism.
As for resources to prepare for the exam, I used this book.
It's great for Physics B, but for Physics C the textbook you have might be more helpful. (I had Halliday/Resnick)
But like I said, you could probably manage a 5 on the Physics B exam by making sure you have a solid foundation of mechanics and electromagnetism and cramming the rest-- my teacher happened to obtain the past papers for Physics B for us and going through all of them a few days prior to the exam was really helpful.
Good luck with that.
 
Giancoli's physics for scientists and engineers is a great book
 

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