Introduction to Physics: Books for Non-Calculus Learners

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the challenges of learning physics without a calculus background. Participants emphasize that while introductory physics books like "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by P. A. Tipler and G. Mosca provide a basic overview, a solid understanding of calculus is essential for grasping fundamental concepts in physics. Recommendations include focusing on algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus as prerequisites before tackling physics. The consensus is that physics cannot be effectively learned without a foundational knowledge of mathematics, particularly calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic Arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
  • Algebra (Introductory Algebra and Intermediate Algebra)
  • Trigonometry (basic concepts and functions)
  • Pre-Calculus (understanding functions and limits)
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "College Physics" textbooks for a non-calculus introduction to physics.
  • Study "Pre-Algebra" and "Introductory Algebra" resources to solidify mathematical foundations.
  • Review Khan Academy's courses on arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry for structured learning.
  • Learn calculus fundamentals through resources like "Calculus & Analytic Geometry" by Thomas or similar textbooks.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students, educators, and anyone interested in learning physics without prior calculus knowledge, as well as those seeking to understand the necessary mathematical foundations for studying physics effectively.

  • #31
Vanadium 50 said:
For someone who doesn't even have algebra? Do you think he is likely to be successful?
Then he has to learn the necessary mathematics first. To really understand physics you cannot avoid it!
 
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  • #32
vanhees71 said:
Then he has to learn the necessary mathematics first. To really understand physics you cannot avoid it!
I want to.But i just don't know where to begin.Could someone give me a complete map of everything about the maths and physics.
 
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  • #33
Like from The utmost basic maths(not that I need it) to calculus and physics
 
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  • #34
Please i want to learn physics .But I just don't know where to begin and where and what to learn.:cry:
 
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  • #35
Prof. Herbert Gross and very good explanations on elementary algebra on his website.
In which grade are you now?
 
  • #36
Adesh said:
Prof. Herbert Gross and very good explanations on elementary algebra on his website.
In which grade are you now?
9th
 
  • #37
Neeleshatom said:
9th
What problems are you getting with your current syllabus and teachings?
 
  • #38
Problems maths or real .Real nothing.
 
  • #39
Adesh said:
What problems are you getting with your current syllabus and teachings?
I always score above 95 percentile and have a good understanding of the topics covered.
 
  • #40
Neeleshatom said:
Please i want to learn physics .But I just don't know where to begin and where and what to learn.:cry:
Adesh said:
Prof. Herbert Gross and very good explanations on elementary algebra on his website.
In which grade are you now?
Neeleshatom said:
9th
The typical pathway is like this with some variation depending on what and how the institution offers:
  1. Basic General Arithmetic and Mathematics
  2. Introductory Algebra
  3. Geometry (Euclidean, with proofs)
  4. Intermediate Algebra
  5. Trigonometry
  6. College Algebra or College Algebra & Trigonometry(Pre-Calculus)
  7. Calculus & Analytic Geometry 1 (mostly differentiation)
  8. Calculus & Analytic Geometry 2 (mostly integration, maybe topics for Sequences & Series)
  9. Calculs & Analytic Geometry 3 (Multivariable or Intermediate Calculus)
  10. Some further course or more combining Linear Algebra and Differential Equations
The numbers 2 through 6 are what you would do in high school. Those can also be done in a community college depending on the region of the world that you live.
 
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  • #41
Neeleshatom said:
I always score above 95 percentile and have a good understanding of the topics covered.
I give up. Good luck to you !
 
  • #42
Neeleshatom said:
Problems maths or real .Real nothing.
What does this mean?
@Adesh asked you a legitimate question, and your reply is gibberish.
 
  • #43
Thread closed. The OP has been given many suggestions of books or websites to study from.
 
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