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

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A 10th-grade student expresses a strong interest in physics, particularly in advanced topics like string theory, M-theory, relativity, and quantum mechanics, despite having limited access to quality physics courses at their high school. They seek recommendations for a foundational physics textbook that includes the necessary math concepts, ideally priced under $100. Suggestions from forum members include Feynman's Lectures on Physics, which is praised for its unique explanatory style, and "University Physics" by Young and Freedman. Members emphasize the importance of actively working through problems while studying these texts to build a solid understanding of the material.
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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