Elementary book on real physics from an experimental pov

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a suitable physics book for motivated laymen that emphasizes an experimental approach to understanding physics. Participants are interested in resources that explain the methods of physics and help develop physical intuition, while also allowing for hands-on experimentation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks recommendations for a physics book that offers a real understanding of the subject, focusing on methods and physical intuition.
  • Another participant suggests "The Way Things Work" as a potential resource, although they express concern that it may not adequately cover the experimental aspect.
  • A different participant acknowledges the suggestion but notes that it may not align perfectly with their original request, while still recognizing its appeal to a broader audience.
  • Links to additional resources, including a specific book and related websites, are provided for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on a specific book that meets all the criteria outlined in the initial request. Multiple suggestions are made, but no single recommendation is universally accepted as ideal.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the need for a book that balances comprehensiveness with understandability, indicating that the ideal resource may depend on individual preferences and prior knowledge.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for educators, students, or anyone interested in physics who is looking for accessible yet substantive resources that encourage experimental learning.

kith
Science Advisor
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I am looking for a book on physics to recommend to motivated laymen who don't want popularized information about the thing they are interested in but who want the real thing: what is physics, what methods are used, how to develop physical intuition, etc.

Also, I am looking for a book with an experimental approach. Ideally, it enables people to perform some experiments themselves and gives them a feeling about the quantities they would encounter if they had the laboratory to perform more complex experiments. It doesn't need to strive for completeness and probably shouldn't in order to be understandable.

Any ideas?
 
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kith said:
motivated laymen
kith said:
what is physics, what methods
kith said:
experimental approach
The Way Things Work comes to mind. It could be entirely too light on the experimental aspect. There was a "Mr. Wizard" book(s?) from back in the 50's that'd be hard to find these days.
 
Thanks, this looks like a marvelous book! It isn't really what I had in mind but many people will probably enjoy reading it.
 

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