Book recommendation for Graduate mechanics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for textbooks suitable for refreshing knowledge in graduate classical mechanics. Participants share their opinions on various books, particularly focusing on Goldstein and Taylor, while considering the appropriateness of different editions and alternatives.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants recommend Goldstein as a strong textbook, but express uncertainty about its suitability as a refresher.
  • Others suggest that Taylor may be more accessible for self-study and better suited for refreshing material.
  • A participant raises a question about the differences between the 2nd and 3rd editions of Goldstein, noting that the latter may have changes in content and notation.
  • Another participant mentions a preference for Keith Symon's book as a suitable alternative, while acknowledging the popularity of Jerry Marion's book.
  • One participant expresses a preference for Taylor over Thorton and Marion, indicating a comparative evaluation of these texts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that Goldstein is a reputable book, but there is no consensus on whether it is the best choice for a refresher. Multiple competing views exist regarding the suitability of Taylor and other alternatives.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the appropriateness of different editions of Goldstein without resolving the implications of these changes. The discussion reflects varying levels of familiarity with the texts mentioned.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in graduate classical mechanics, particularly those seeking textbook recommendations for self-study or course preparation.

planethunter
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Hello all, I have just finished up taking graduate E&M and will be enrolling in graduate classical mechanics next fall. It has been a while since I have done any kind of mechanics and would like to know which book do you recommend for refreshing/re-learning needed material for grad mechanics?? Is Goldstein basically the best book I can use?

Thanks!
 
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Goldstein is a great book; I am not sure it's the best for a "refresher" though. Taylor is a bit more accessible.
 
fss said:
Goldstein is a great book; I am not sure it's the best for a "refresher" though. Taylor is a bit more accessible.

About Goldstein's one, I have read in Amazon that the 3rd version (latest) is a somehow watered down version of the 2nd one and with new notation. It seems that some chapter(s) have been deleted while some others have been added.
So is the 3rd edition "better" to get?
I'm also -very- interested in getting Goldstein book but I'm not sure what version.
Thanks anyone.
 
fss said:
Goldstein is a great book; I am not sure it's the best for a "refresher" though. Taylor is a bit more accessible.

Thanks for the response. I read some reviews on Amazon for Taylor and I think I am going to go with it for self-study.

Thanks!
 
Yeah, Taylor is awesome, much better than Thorton and Marion.
 
Since you're going to take the class, I would suggest a book one notch down from Goldstein. I like Keith Symon's book myself, but Jerry Marion's is certainly very popular.
 

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