Jackson's Electrodynamics: 1st edition vs 3rd edition

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the differences between the 1st and 3rd editions of Jackson's "Electrodynamics." Key distinctions include the 3rd edition's use of SI units, which simplifies certain calculations. While the content remains largely consistent, some problems have been updated in the 3rd edition. Users of the 1st edition may find it sufficient for study, especially if they can access updated problems from peers. Additionally, a solid background in Mathematical Physics is recommended for tackling Jackson's text effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with Jackson's "Electrodynamics" 1st edition
  • Understanding of SI units and Gaussian units
  • Knowledge of Mathematical Physics concepts from texts like Arfken or Morse and Feshbach
  • Basic understanding of electrodynamics principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the preface of Jackson's "Electrodynamics" 3rd edition for detailed changes
  • Study Griffiths' "Introduction to Electrodynamics" for foundational concepts
  • Explore Mathematical Physics resources, particularly Arfken or Byron and Fuller
  • Compare problem sets between the 1st and 3rd editions to identify key updates
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those studying electrodynamics, as well as anyone considering the transition from the 1st to the 3rd edition of Jackson's text.

hgandh
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Hello all. I am currently using Jackson's Electrodynamics book to study the subject and was wondering how different is the 1st edition from the 3rd. So far, I have read the first chapter and have done most of the problems from the first edition. My question is, how much will I miss out on if I use the first edition over the 3rd for the remainder of the book? (I found the 1st edition for free so I don't really want to spend money on the 3rd if it's not completely necessary).
Thanks.
 
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The preface for the third edition outlines the changes in detail. I think you can make your own determination based on that info. Probably the biggest difference is that the third edition uses SI units, which might make things easier.
 
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I used the first edition in a course when the instructor was using the third edition. I didn't have any problems with the content, but some of the problems had changed. When this happened, I just photocopied the updated problem from one of the other students.
 
Would Griffiths' Intro to Electrodynamics be sufficient background for starting Jackson's text?
 
Griffith might give the electrodynamic background, but Jackson would probably need some Mathematical Physics prerequisite like from Arfken, or Byron and Fuller, Seshadri, or the comprehensive Morse and Feshbach.
 
I'd prefer the 1st or 2nd edition over the 3rd, because the former two are written entirely in the 2nd-best choice of units (the Gaussian units; the best choice are rationlized Heaviside-Lorentz units). SCNR ;-).
 

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