I Need Help Selecting a Good Text Book to Learn the Basics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for textbooks suitable for a high school student seeking to build a strong foundation in physics, particularly in preparation for more advanced topics such as string theory, relativity, and quantum mechanics. The focus is on finding accessible resources that effectively integrate physics concepts with the necessary mathematical background.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for a textbook that provides a strong basic understanding of physics and the associated mathematics, emphasizing their interest in advanced topics.
  • Another participant recommends the three-volume set of Feynman's Lectures on Physics, suggesting it is unique and effective for beginners, especially if the reader engages actively with the material.
  • A third participant concurs with the recommendation of Feynman's Lectures, advising that readers should work through problems as they study to enhance understanding.
  • Another suggestion is made for "University Physics" by Young and Freedman as a preferred textbook.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of Feynman's Lectures as a strong starting point, but there are multiple recommendations, indicating a lack of consensus on a single best textbook.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not specified the prerequisites or particular areas of focus within physics that may influence textbook choice. The discussion does not clarify the depth of mathematical understanding required for each suggested textbook.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students interested in physics, educators seeking textbook recommendations, and individuals looking to self-study advanced physics topics.

moderndayhipp
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Hi,

I'm new to Physics Forums, but I'm glad to be here.

I'm in 10th grade and I'm very interested in physics. Since I was in an early grade (5th) I would scour my textbook and my library looking for anything related to physics. Unfortunately I didn't have enough math skill to understand the math behind the ideas; so, I just learned the abstract. None the less I was intrigued. Recently (the last two years), I have been interested in some of the more complicated ideas in physics, particularly string theory, M-theory, relativity, and quantum Mechanics. The physics program at my high school is terrible. Really, it's a complete joke. I want to understand the more complicated theories because that is where my interest lies, but I need a strong base first. I want a textbook that would provide me with a strong basic understanding of physics and the math behind the ideas so that I could easily move on to the harder stuff. And in case you were wondering, I'm very good at math. I take advanced classes and I'm at the top of my class. I just Haven't been able to take any quality physics courses. So the math part won't be a problem. This brings me to my original question.

What textbook would you recommend, Preferably one under $100?
 
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If you can tackle the standard calculus based text by Haliday, Resnick and Walker with ease thenI suggest the the 3 volume set of Feynman's Lectures on Physics. The paperback version is about $65 new @ Amazon. I don't think there is anything quite like them and they may be your best bet to get started.

Also poke around amazon.com for books on string theory and check the ratings and reviews.

KL
 
kloveland said:
... the 3 volume set of Feynman's Lectures on Physics...

I second that suggestion. And when you read these, bring paper & pencil and work out the details as you go. If you can do two or three of these a week you will definitely be 'on your way.' Feynman explains things in a way that you just don't get from most other books.
 
My favorite is "University Physics" by Young and Freedman.
 

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