Is Motion Mountain textbook good?

In summary: Hi, In summary, the conversation discussed the Motion Mountain physics textbook and its reputation as a poor resource. The individual asking the question was seeking others' opinions on the textbook and alternatives for learning physics, such as Feynman's lectures, Perelman's series of books, and free online courses and textbooks from MIT. They also recommend finding a used physics textbook instead of purchasing a new one. The conversation also mentions the importance of having a background in calculus for studying physics.
  • #1
ultrasmart
30
0
Hi,
Have anyone of you used Motion Mountain physics textbook?. Many people on the web said that it is a very bad textbook. But I don't understand why it is bad?
Do anyone of you have a different opinion about that textbook? or if you too find it bad I want to know why it is bad.
Thanks is advance.
 
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  • #2
No one knows that book?
 
  • #4
Advice: Read the Feynman's lectures on Physics. You're better off even with Perelman's series of books.
 
  • #5
Ben Crowell has some free physics texts, for both majors and non-majors, here:
http://www.lightandmatter.com/books.html.

But by far the best resources on the net are the free courses from MIT, designed especially for self-learners. Here's the first course in their physics sequence:
http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-01sc-physics-i-classical-mechanics-fall-2010/

It includes a complete set of video lectures.

For a text, I'd recommend looking on ebay or used book sites for a ninth edition of University Physics, by Young and Freedman. You can probably get it for ten bucks or less, and there is no important difference between it and the 13th edition that sells for $200. In fact, any freshman physics text published in the last 50 years is as good or better than a brand new one. Freshman physics hasn't changed much since 1930.

All this assumes that you are taking, or have taken, calculus. If not, take the MIT self-study course for that.

http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/mathematics/18-01sc-single-variable-calculus-fall-2010/
 

What is the Motion Mountain textbook about?

The Motion Mountain textbook is an introductory physics textbook that covers topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics.

Who is the intended audience for the Motion Mountain textbook?

The Motion Mountain textbook is designed for students with a basic understanding of mathematics and physics, typically at the high school or early college level.

What makes the Motion Mountain textbook a good resource for learning physics?

The Motion Mountain textbook is praised for its clear and concise explanations, engaging visuals and diagrams, and interactive online features that help students grasp difficult concepts in a more intuitive way.

Is the Motion Mountain textbook up-to-date with current scientific knowledge?

Yes, the Motion Mountain textbook is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements in physics and is written by a team of experts in the field.

Are there any drawbacks to using the Motion Mountain textbook?

Some readers may find the Motion Mountain textbook to be more challenging than other introductory physics textbooks, as it covers a wide range of topics in-depth and requires a solid understanding of mathematical concepts.

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