Introduction to Physics: Books for Non-Calculus Learners

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on recommendations for introductory physics books suitable for learners without a calculus background. Participants explore the feasibility of understanding physics concepts without calculus and the necessary mathematical prerequisites for studying physics effectively.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest books like "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Tipler and Mosca as basic introductions that avoid heavy mathematical complications.
  • Others argue that physics cannot be adequately understood without calculus, emphasizing that mathematics is essential for expressing physical concepts.
  • There are requests for recommendations on books covering algebra, trigonometry, and precalculus as foundational knowledge before tackling physics.
  • Some participants mention that Newtonian Mechanics requires a minimal understanding of calculus and vectors, indicating that avoiding calculus may hinder learning physics.
  • Several participants inquire about the nature and content of pre-algebra, with discussions on its role as a preparatory course for algebra.
  • There are mentions of online resources like Khan Academy as supplementary materials for learning mathematics relevant to physics.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the possibility of learning physics without a solid foundation in algebra and arithmetic.
  • There are suggestions to start with calculus-based textbooks, but questions arise about the suitability of such recommendations for those lacking basic algebra skills.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether it is possible to learn physics without calculus. There are competing views on the necessity of mathematical prerequisites, with some advocating for a calculus-free approach and others insisting on the importance of calculus for a proper understanding of physics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the importance of foundational arithmetic and algebra before progressing to physics, indicating that a lack of these skills may impede success in understanding physics concepts.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals seeking to learn physics without a calculus background, as well as those interested in understanding the mathematical prerequisites necessary 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!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #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.
 
  • Skeptical
Likes   Reactions: weirdoguy
  • #33
Like from The utmost basic maths(not that I need it) to calculus and physics
 
  • Skeptical
Likes   Reactions: weirdoguy
  • #34
Please i want to learn physics .But I just don't know where to begin and where and what to learn.:cry:
 
  • Skeptical
Likes   Reactions: weirdoguy
  • #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.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Neeleshatom, vanhees71 and Adesh
  • #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.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: weirdoguy and Adesh

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K