First Steps to Learning Basic Physics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a middle school student's journey to learn physics, with a specific interest in quantum mechanics (QM). The student has a foundational understanding of Algebra I/II and basic trigonometry but seeks recommendations for textbooks and resources to build the necessary mathematical background for studying Classical Mechanics and QM. Participants suggest starting with Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, and basic Newtonian Physics, while recommending resources such as "Calculus Made Easy" by Silvanus Phillips Thompson and "College Physics" by Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille, and Jerry S. Faughn.

PREREQUISITES
  • Algebra I and II
  • Basic Trigonometry
  • Understanding of Scalars and Vectors
  • Familiarity with Newtonian Physics concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "Calculus Made Easy" by Silvanus Phillips Thompson
  • Explore "College Physics" by Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille, and Jerry S. Faughn
  • Learn basic trigonometry through Khan Academy
  • Research Pre-Calculus textbooks suitable for beginners
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for middle school students, aspiring physicists, and anyone seeking foundational knowledge in physics and mathematics to prepare for advanced studies in science.

  • #31
Studiot said:
Books and theory are OK, but Physics is an intensely practical subject.

You can do a huge amount of Physics with almost no mathematics - just the four basic operations add, subtract, multiply and divide along with an understanding of simple geometric concepts like area and volume and some simple shapes.

A basic understanding of what happens when we apply a stimulus to something

Heat it
Shine a light on it
Connect it to a battery
Hit it
Push it
Place it in water
etc

Along with noticing that our something has properties of its own such as colour, physical form (solid/liquid/gas), transparancy, fleibility, light emission, ...

Look around you and get a good hold on these ideas, they will stand you in good stead in the future.

go well

Thanks for your reply.
 
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  • #32
PS I liked the film.
 

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