Fundamentals of Physics: Is the Older Edition Outdated?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance and value of older editions of the textbook "Fundamentals of Physics" by Resnick & Halliday, particularly in relation to the newer 7th edition. Participants express concerns about whether the material in the older edition is outdated and if it is suitable for current coursework.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the low price of the older edition, suggesting it might indicate outdated material.
  • Another participant considers saving for the newer edition, noting its relevance for current and future physics courses.
  • A participant mentions the publication date of the older edition (2000), implying it may still be acceptable.
  • Some participants argue that unless a specific edition is required, older editions are generally sufficient since classical physics concepts remain unchanged.
  • One participant, who already possesses the 7th edition, seeks advice on whether to purchase an older version for better foundational understanding, referencing opinions that suggest the 4th and 6th editions may be preferable.
  • A participant confirms that the book is authored by Resnick & Halliday, seeking clarification on the authorship.
  • Another participant asserts that older editions are acceptable, emphasizing that the fundamental laws of physics have not changed, but notes that homework problems may vary by edition if used for a class.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express mixed views on the necessity of the latest edition, with some advocating for older editions while others suggest the newer edition may be more beneficial. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which edition is definitively better for current use.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the potential for differences in homework problems between editions, indicating that the suitability of an older edition may depend on specific course requirements.

DougD720
Messages
47
Reaction score
0
Can someone check this book out for me please, I'm a little confused at how something that's supposed to be so great could be so cheap. Perhaps because it's the older edition (6th and i think the 7th is out).

Will the material be outdated or is it alright to get? I think it's a steal for 20 bucks as opposed to the new edition which costs about 150.


Thanks for the help, I've heard that this book is supposed to be really great. Let me know!

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?z=y&EAN=9780471332367&itm=3"

-Doug
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Maybe i'll just save up for the newer (7th) edition. It's $130.00 from amazon which isn't too bad. I'll just save up for it, but comments on the other one i posted and this one are welcome. It looks like a great book to cover the physics I'm being taught, the physics ill be taking next year, and probably some of the physics ill take in college. Thanks!
 
It says it's published in 2000, can't be that bad then, can it? I would get the cheap one. (Unless that's a lie of course)
 
Unless you need a specific edition, there's no reason to pay for the latest edition. Authors usually get things right by the 2nd edition. The bulk of Fundamentals is classical physics that is not going to go out of date. Publishers like to keep updating books so that they can extract the most money out of the textbook market.

You might want to read some of the threads in this subforum on the various versions and editions of Resnick & Halliday.
 
Last edited:
I already have the 7th edition in my hand now, but since i really needed more understanding about those concepts and also wish to improve my foundation level in physics...
therefore i planning to buy one more/an older ver. of Fundamentals of Physics
is there have any advice for me to purchase which version is adequate?
i have view a thread where discussed before https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=138035&page=2"
^_^physicist posted his opinion saying that 4th and 6th is better, should i choose this either version?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
is this book is by Resnik & halliday
 
Older editions are fine... the laws haven't changed since the first printing, although it may be a better book from a pedagogical standpoint.

Only other consideration that may come into play is whether or not this is for a class. If it's for a class, the homework problems may be specific to a particular edition - although you could always get them from a classmate.
 

Similar threads

Classical Comparing Fundamentals & Principles of Physics 11th Edition Textbooks
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
8K
Should I Use College Physics for Self-Studying: Algebra or Calculus Based?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Intro Physics Is the 6th Edition of Fundamentals of Physics Suitable for Beginners?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Classical Which Physics Book Should High School Student Buy?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Intro Physics How does KIP Fundamentals of Electricity compare to Purcell?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
So many Halliday and Resnick Texts, a few questions about different editions, uk
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
24K
Intro Physics Suggestions for conceptual E&M and modern physics reading
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Admissions Statement of purpose critique request (high-energy theory PhD application)
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
Question from Fundamentals of Physics, 6th edition (exhanced) .
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
Which books should I read for my major in Physics and Applied Maths?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K