Is Thorton/Marion a Good Starting Point for Self-Studying Mechanics?

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SUMMARY

Thorton/Marion is a suitable starting point for self-studying mechanics, especially for those with a solid mathematics background. However, users caution that while the text is accessible, it may not sufficiently emphasize the underlying physics concepts. An alternative recommendation is Kleppner & Kolenkow's 'An Introduction to Mechanics', which provides a more comprehensive physics perspective and is considered an excellent introductory resource. Overall, both texts serve different needs depending on the learner's focus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic mathematics concepts relevant to physics
  • Familiarity with fundamental physics terminology
  • Ability to solve mathematical problems
  • Knowledge of traditional physics texts, such as Halliday/Resnick
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore Kleppner & Kolenkow's 'An Introduction to Mechanics'
  • Review Halliday/Resnick for a traditional physics approach
  • Study supplementary materials on physics problem-solving techniques
  • Investigate online resources or courses focusing on introductory mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students transitioning from mathematics to physics, self-learners in mechanics, and anyone seeking a foundational understanding of physics concepts.

tronter
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I want to study mechanics but have never taken a physics course (in college). I flipped through this Thorton/Marion, and it seems pretty easy to follow. Could I start out here for studying mechanics, as opposed to starting out on the traditional texts ("Halliday/Resncick")?

Thanks
 
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You are currently doing a maths degree but want a bit of dynamics?
If you are fine with the maths then I imagine Marion would be a good place to start, but the problem could well arise that you are fine at piecing together problems using maths but do this without really being aware of the physics or thinking about the physics when you are learning the stuff.
A textbook that is a bit more fluffy but covers a good deal of content is Kleppner & Kolenkow's 'An Introduction to Mechanics', it puts the emphasis on a physics outlook.

In fact i wish i'd bought K&K about 2 years ago and started it before i even came to university, i think it's about the best introduction..
 

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