How and where to begin with? Re-acquainting myself with physics.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around how to re-acquaint oneself with physics, particularly in the context of astrophysics, after a long absence from the subject. Participants explore various resources and approaches for someone with a background in computer science but limited prior interest in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to understand the basics of physics and astrophysics after a long hiatus and seeks guidance on where to start.
  • Another participant suggests reading review papers on arXiv as a potential resource.
  • Some participants note that the approach to learning should depend on whether the individual is interested in popularized ideas or the detailed mathematics behind astrophysics.
  • A participant indicates a preference for theoretical aspects of astrophysics and seeks recommendations for textbooks suitable for new graduate students in the field.
  • One suggestion is to take classes for a structured learning experience, while another participant acknowledges that this may not be feasible due to personal commitments and suggests finding college textbooks instead.
  • Specific undergraduate astrophysics textbooks are recommended, including "Foundations of Astrophysics" and "An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of textbooks and structured learning, but there is no consensus on the best approach, as some emphasize formal classes while others suggest self-study through books.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of commitment to learning physics, with some seeking a more casual approach while others desire a deeper understanding, indicating a range of motivations and constraints.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals with a background in computer science or related fields looking to explore astrophysics as a hobby, as well as those seeking guidance on educational resources in physics.

nishant_c
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Hi,

I am sorry if this is not a place to ask this question but it seemed like a right one to me.

I am Computer Science Engineer and hence since 2003 I haven't touched a Physics book. Even before that I never was interested in Physics as much I was interested in Mathematics and Computers. I did however always loved the idea of understanding the universe in terms of physics but not enough to pursue it anyways. But I now have the time to do so, not professionally but maybe just as a hobby.

So my question is, what exactly should I begin with so that I don't counter many problems while trying to understand the basics of universe and astrophysics. Keeping in mind that I have not even touched a Physics book in last 10 years and I never was much interested in Physics.

Again , I am sorry if this has been covered somewhere on this forum or this is a qrong place to post this question.

Regards.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Read the review papers on arxiv.
 
It depends on what you are trying to learn. If you just want to learn the run of the mill basic ideas that are popularized through books and popular shows, any of those will teach you. If you actually want to learn the details and the math behind everything, that is another story altogether.
 
I am definitely looking for something more. I am interested in Theoretical aspects of astrophysics. Probably looking for a book that' new grad students of astrophysics would read?
 
Your best bet is to take classes for it honestly. If not that I would suggest finding a college textbook.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Drakkith said:
Your best bet is to take classes for it honestly. If not that I would suggest finding a college textbook.
That is not feasible, I have a job and life that I can't give up for something I won't be doing professionally, but read books I can .
George Jones said:
Two standard undergraduate astrophysics texts:

Thanks a lot, will get them :)
 

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