Best books to study Oscillations and Waves

In summary, the conversation is about the individual's search for a book on the topic of oscillations and waves, specifically for preparation for a Physics Masters Entrance Exam in India. The individual's coaching institute has suggested four books, but they want to do more research before purchasing any of them. They are looking for a simple and understandable book, similar to "Introduction to Electrodynamics" by DJ Griffiths. They mention the syllabus they need to cover for the exam and express concern about the lower ratings of books on this topic. They consider purchasing a general physics book, such as "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway, but decide not to due to already having a lot of books. The individual mentions
  • #1
Slimy0233
165
48
I was studying for a Physics Masters Entrance Exams (India) and my coaching institute basically suggested me these books:
1685533305488.png


I actually have regretted buying books without prior research in the past, so I am making sure I do my fair share of research before buying any of these or something better.

The list given by my institute contains these 4 books
1. Waves and Oscillations - Brij Lal and Subrahmanyam
2. Oscillations and Waves - Suresh Garg, C.K Ghosh and Sanjay Gupta
3. Oscillations, Waves and Accoustics - P.K Mittal
4. Vibrations and Waves - A.P French

I was wondering which of these to buy. I want a simple book which can help me understand stuff easily like Introduction to Electrodynamics by DJ Griffiths, I love and adore this book.

The Syllabus I have to cover

Oscillations and Waves Syllabus:
1685533360429.png


Also, I don't know why, but many books relating to Waves and Oscillations are rated relatively poorly (when compared to other Physics books) on amazon.in.
While generally, famous Physics textbooks get a rating a of 4.5+, many books relative to oscillations and waves have gotten, 4 star ratings. So, I felt this post was somewhat necessary.

PS: I did search for books of Oscillations and Waves on Reddit and on Physicsforums, but I didn't get many results, so I have made a post here.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I have a feeling that a general physics book, such as Serway's Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics would be helpful for you. And no need to go with the latest edition. You can find older editions (used) for next to nothing.
 
  • #3
The only textbook with this very general topic "Oscillations of Waves" I know is the corresponding volume of the Berkeley physics course, which I found pretty good in the beginning of my physics studies. Otherwise you get waves in nearly any subtopic of physics. In the standard curriculum of universities usually you get it in mechanics starting with the harmonic oscillator and then there's also the pendulum as one example for a non-linear equation. Waves you get it first of course in the classical electromagnetism lecture and then in terms of Schrödinger's wave equation in the QM 1 lecture.
 
  • #4
DrClaude said:
I have a feeling that a general physics book, such as Serway's Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics would be helpful for you. And no need to go with the latest edition. You can find older editions (used) for next to nothing.
I prefer to buy new books Dr.

Moreover, I really would love to buy Physics for Scientists and Engineers but just not now unfortunately (I am swamped with n number of books already,) so yeah, I was searching for a book on this particular topic
 
  • #5
vanhees71 said:
The only textbook with this very general topic "Oscillations of Waves" I know is the corresponding volume of the Berkeley physics course, which I found pretty good in the beginning of my physics studies. Otherwise you get waves in nearly any subtopic of physics. In the standard curriculum of universities usually you get it in mechanics starting with the harmonic oscillator and then there's also the pendulum as one example for a non-linear equation. Waves you get it first of course in the classical electromagnetism lecture and then in terms of Schrödinger's wave equation in the QM 1 lecture.
As much as I wanted to buy this, I didn't have enough money to do that. I bought AP French's Oscillations and Waves
 
  • Like
Likes vanhees71
  • #6
Slimy0233 said:
As much as I wanted to buy this, I didn't have enough money to do that. I bought AP French's Oscillations and Waves
How is it?
 
  • #7
Muu9 said:
How is it?
I won't know. I haven't got it yet. Will update once I get it delivered
 

FAQ: Best books to study Oscillations and Waves

What are some highly recommended books for studying oscillations and waves?

Some highly recommended books for studying oscillations and waves include "Vibrations and Waves" by A.P. French, "Introduction to Vibrations and Waves" by H.J. Pain, "The Physics of Waves" by Howard Georgi, "Waves and Oscillations" by Walter Fox Smith, and "Mechanical Vibrations" by S.S. Rao.

Which book is best for beginners in the study of oscillations and waves?

"Vibrations and Waves" by A.P. French is an excellent choice for beginners. It provides a clear and accessible introduction to the fundamental concepts of oscillations and waves, making it suitable for those new to the subject.

Are there any advanced books on oscillations and waves for in-depth study?

For advanced study, "The Physics of Waves" by Howard Georgi is highly recommended. This book delves deeper into the mathematical descriptions and physical interpretations of wave phenomena, making it ideal for those seeking a more rigorous understanding.

What book would you recommend for practical applications of oscillations and waves?

"Mechanical Vibrations" by S.S. Rao is a great choice for those interested in practical applications. This book covers a wide range of real-world applications and provides detailed explanations of how oscillations and waves are utilized in various engineering contexts.

Is there a book that covers both theory and problem-solving for oscillations and waves?

"Introduction to Vibrations and Waves" by H.J. Pain is a well-rounded book that covers both theoretical concepts and problem-solving techniques. It includes numerous examples and exercises that help reinforce the material and develop problem-solving skills.

Similar threads

Replies
16
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
10K
Back
Top