Finding a Physics Book for Beginners with Basic Calculus

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around recommendations for physics books suitable for beginners who have a basic understanding of calculus. Participants share various titles and their suitability for different aspects of physics, including theory and problem-solving.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks recommendations for physics books that utilize only basic calculus.
  • Another participant suggests "I.E. Irodov Problems in General Physics," noting that while it includes calculus, it is helpful for understanding Newton's laws and kinematics.
  • A different participant recommends "Halliday Resnick Fundamentals of Physics," indicating that it uses calculus in a non-extensive manner.
  • Another suggestion is Jearl Walker's "Flying Circus of Physics," which is described as fun and requiring very little calculus.
  • Feynman's lectures are mentioned as well, with a note that they develop basic calculus concepts in the context of motion.
  • One participant mentions the Schaum series books as another potential resource.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on suitable books, with no consensus on a single recommendation. Each suggestion highlights different strengths and approaches to teaching physics with basic calculus.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations depend on the specific areas of physics the inquirer is interested in, and the effectiveness of each book may vary based on individual learning preferences.

Poincare1
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I am trying get started in physics and i want to get a physics book with $only basic calculus$.
do anyone suggest anything?
 
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I suggest "I.E.Irodov Problems in General Physics". Some of the problems do require calculus (Especially electrostatics n gravitation) but the book is really helpful for Newtons laws and kinematics. If you are looking for a theory book you might as well try "Halliday Resnick Fundamentals of Physics". Other good books are Feynmann's lectures.
 
thx The message you have entered is too short
 
Halliday Resnick is a nice choice but calculus is used in a non-extensive form. Besides you migth want to check the Schaum series books.
 
Jearl Walker's "Flying Circus of Physics" is a very fun book to work through, and requires very little calculus.
 
Feynman's lectures on Physics. He develops 'only basic calculus' in his lecture on motion:

I 8-3 Speed as a derivative
I 8-4 Distance as an integral
 

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