Learn Physics: Best Book to Teach Yourself

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In summary, the best book to teach oneself physics is a calculus-based general physics book of the sort that is used in college freshman physics courses.
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I would like to know what the best book would be to teach myself physics. I graduated with a BS in Actuarial Science and have realized that I went the wrong direction scientifically. I would like to start learning physics and cannot afford to go back to college at this time. Please, any suggestions would help.
 
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If you know basic differential and integral calculus, I would suggest a calculus-based general physics book of the sort that is used in college freshman physics courses for prospective physics majors, For example, Halliday, Resnick and Walker, "Fundamentals of Physics".

If you don't know any calculus yet, you can either learn some calculus first, then proceed with a book like the one above, or you can start with a non-calculus-based general physics book of the sort that is used in college physics courses for non-majors, such as Serway and Faughn, "College Physics".

These are just examples. There are other books in both categories. Look at online syllabi for physics courses at various colleges to see what they use. If you have a college or university nearby, look in the bookstore and see what they have. Many college bookstores sell used textbooks, which is somewhat cheaper than buying new ones.
 
  • #3
Thanks. I want to look for something calculus-based since I took all the calculus classes that Bowling Green State University has to offer. I would like to sooner or later move into quantum physics, but for now, I need to build a solid base. I'm sure that in order to fully comprehend physics material, lab time is crucial, but that will have to wait until later.

Any suggestions on good internet-based material as well?
 
  • #5
Hi Stack81,

I have thought just like you long before when I got the Faculty of Engineering instead of Faculty of Physics. But, it was some bit very close to physics, especially Communications and Electronics Dept.

What I can see suitable is (After revising the basic and most important topics in mathematics; complex numbers, vectors, matrices and tensors, differentiation and integration... and differential Equation {ordinary and partially}):
a. Mechanics (Kinetics and Kinematics in a Newtonian basis). Although Newtonian Mechanics are now believed to devitate from reality in wide domains, it is very important to understand it upon certain threshold.
b. Newtonian Gravity and Maxwellian Electromagnetism. Simply: the equations forming each and how to solve them and understand general features. (Feymann's Lectures would be a very good source for the second.)
c. Basics of Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics including Nuclear strong and weak forces.
d. Special Relativity is a MUST. It is best to begin with a very few basics and undertsand them very well, with knowing the very specific domain of applying each. Most books don't get into the story directly. SR is to understand Lorentz Equations (Transformations) after understanding the meaning of "The Constancy of the speed of Light".
e. Quantum Theory (Mechanics). "Basic Quatum Mechanics" is the best simple and direct book that I have ever found in Quantum Mechanics. (In my opinion deal with Quantum Mechanics only through equations and try to have the right meaning by yourself!)
f. General Relativity. It is a great sea, lost in it who's lost and driving in it who is trying to survive:) So, make your issue and try to begin driving... Right Driving. There is a good web page available if you want. It has now been removed..
g. Quantum Field Theories; especially QED. Feymann's Lectures are very good for these. But, unfortunately they don't contain the nasic equations for it.
h. General overview over String Theory and Loop Quantum Gravity Theory. They are incomplete but are expected to have good future.

By this, you will have finished a very specialized Collection of the whole pfysics. But, still unspecialized in a certain field.

Welcome for any inquires.


Amr Morsi.
 

FAQ: Learn Physics: Best Book to Teach Yourself

1. What is the best book to use for teaching myself physics?

The best book for teaching yourself physics will vary depending on your learning style and level of understanding. Some popular options include "Fundamentals of Physics" by David Halliday and Robert Resnick, "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Raymond A. Serway and John W. Jewett, and "Introduction to Electrodynamics" by David J. Griffiths. It is important to choose a book that is comprehensive, well-written, and aligns with your curriculum or goals.

2. Can I effectively learn physics from a book alone?

While a book can provide a solid foundation for learning physics, it is important to supplement your learning with other resources such as lectures, online tutorials, and practice problems. Physics is a highly mathematical subject, so working through problems and practicing equations is crucial for understanding and retaining the material.

3. How long does it typically take to learn physics from a book?

The time it takes to learn physics from a book will vary depending on your previous knowledge and dedication to studying. For a beginner, it may take several months to a year to fully grasp the concepts presented in a comprehensive physics book. However, with consistent studying and practice, it is possible to learn the fundamentals of physics in a shorter period of time.

4. Are there any online resources that can supplement a physics book?

Yes, there are many online resources that can supplement a physics book, including video lectures, interactive simulations, and practice problems. Some popular websites for learning physics include Khan Academy, Physics Classroom, and HyperPhysics. These resources can help reinforce concepts and provide additional explanations and examples.

5. Is it necessary to have a strong background in math to learn physics from a book?

While a strong background in math can certainly make learning physics easier, it is not necessary to have a deep understanding of math before diving into a physics book. Many books will review the necessary math concepts as they are needed for understanding the physics material. However, having a basic understanding of algebra, trigonometry, and calculus can be beneficial for comprehending more complex physics concepts.

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