Is there a major difference between 'Fundamentals of Physics' editions?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences between various editions of the "Fundamentals of Physics" textbook, particularly focusing on the 10th and 12th editions. Participants explore the implications of these differences for studying physics, including the availability and pricing of editions, as well as the quality of content and problem sets.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in finding a reasonably priced copy of the 12th edition and questions the differences with the 10th edition.
  • Another participant notes that while problems may change, the text itself generally remains constant across editions, although they have not reviewed the specific editions mentioned.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that earlier editions, such as the 5th edition, may be superior due to perceived excess in the newer editions.
  • Concerns are raised about the publishing practices that lead to new editions primarily for sales purposes, with some participants suggesting that newer editions often shuffle problems rather than improve content.
  • One participant shares a negative experience with the Arfken textbook, indicating that even newer editions have not resolved previous mathematical errors, which they found frustrating.
  • Another participant mentions the perceived superiority of the 2nd edition of Goldstein over the 3rd edition, citing issues with the treatment of specific topics.
  • There are mentions of alternative physics textbooks available at low cost or for free, suggesting that participants are exploring various resources for their studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the value of newer editions versus older ones, with multiple competing views on the quality and necessity of different editions remaining evident throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on the quality and content of different editions, highlighting limitations in the treatment of specific topics and unresolved issues in certain textbooks. The discussion reflects a range of experiences and preferences regarding textbook choices.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and educators seeking insights on textbook editions in physics, particularly those considering which version of "Fundamentals of Physics" to use for study or teaching purposes.

member 761155
I am having a hard time finding a reasonably priced paperback or hardcover copy of the Fundamentals of Physics 12th edition for studying. So I am wondering if there is a huge difference in the older 10th edition which I can find more easily.
 
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In general, problems change, but the text remains “constant”. I have not looked at the specific editions you listed.
 
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Just get the earlier editions titled Physics. I have 5th edition, pdfs exist online or you can get a hardcover volume 1 and 2 used from amazon. It's superior to the bloat that is FoP.
 
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Higher editions sell more new books, and shuffle the problems. A publishing contact generally gives the Publisher the right to demand a new edition. Jackson 2 is better than Jackson 3. Each new edition of Arfken went downhill.
 
Somehow even with the new editions of Arfken they still haven't sorted out all the math errors that drove me crazy a few semesters ago. It's in my opinion not a good book.
 
Meir Achuz said:
Higher editions sell more new books, and shuffle the problems. A publishing contact generally gives the Publisher the right to demand a new edition. Jackson 2 is better than Jackson 3. Each new edition of Arfken went downhill.
I have the third edition of Goldstein but I have heard that the 2nd edition is much better. Users have stated on this forum that there are problems with the treatment of non-holonomic constraints in the 3rd edition.
 
I got Young and Freedman for £5 in the charity shop (so like $6.70)...
you can get Haliday, Resnik and Krane free online
 

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