What's the Best Physics Textbook for a Gap Year Review?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommendations for physics textbooks suitable for a gap year student preparing for university-level physics at Exeter. Key suggestions include "Goldstein" and "Marion" for their focus on Classical Physics, particularly in areas like Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics, as well as Calculus of Variations. These texts are deemed appropriate for bridging A Level knowledge to more advanced concepts typically encountered in junior and senior college courses.

PREREQUISITES
  • A Level Physics understanding
  • Familiarity with Classical Mechanics
  • Basic knowledge of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics
  • Understanding of Calculus of Variations
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Goldstein" for advanced Classical Mechanics concepts
  • Investigate "Marion" for problem-solving techniques in physics
  • Research online courses focusing on Lagrangian Dynamics
  • Study Calculus of Variations for deeper mathematical understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for university physics, particularly those transitioning from A Level to higher education, as well as educators seeking advanced resources for teaching Classical Physics concepts.

Josh Parkin
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Hi, I've just finished A Level Physics, and after a gap year I'm headed to do Physics at Exeter. I'm looking for a textbook or online course or something that has lots of A Level and (maybe slightly higher) Physics questions that I can work through over the course of this year.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks
 
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You could tackle something like Goldstein or Marion Classical Physics. Its more junior/senior college and maybe higher. I know some of my classmates enjoyed solving the problems and learning Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics and Calculus of Variations.
 
Thanks! I'll have a look
 

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