Courses Where Can I Find a Math-Based Physics Book for Electricity and Magnetism?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on finding a math-based physics book specifically focused on electricity and magnetism. Recommendations include "Electricity and Magnetism" by Purcell, which offers a differential forms treatment, and "Mathematics of Classical and Quantum Physics" by Dover, which integrates advanced mathematical concepts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using MKS units and suggests avoiding traditional electrical engineering courses that minimize mathematical rigor. Additional resources mentioned include "Mathematical Methods in Classical Mechanics" by V.I. Arnol'd and "Mathematical Concepts of Quantum Mechanics" by Gustafson and Sigal.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential forms in mathematics
  • Familiarity with MKS units (volts, amps, Tesla, etc.)
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetism principles
  • Experience with advanced mathematical concepts in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Electricity and Magnetism" by Purcell for a differential forms approach
  • Explore "Mathematics of Classical and Quantum Physics" for integration of math and physics
  • Study "Mathematical Methods in Classical Mechanics" by V.I. Arnol'd for advanced mechanics
  • Investigate "Mathematical Concepts of Quantum Mechanics" by Gustafson and Sigal for quantum theory
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians transitioning to physics, physics students seeking rigorous mathematical texts, and educators looking for advanced resources in electricity and magnetism.

diegocas
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Hi! I'm a mathematician but I'm now stuyding some physics. I like it, but I am not completely satisfied with the presentation in ordinary books. I want to find a physics book with no fear for math! In traditional textbooks, line integrals, surface integrals, Stoke's theorem is always avoided! I hope someone could recommend a good math-based physics book. I'm especially interested in electricity and magnetism.
Thanks.
 
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I recommend a 2nd year college Electricity and Magnetism course. My preference, being an experimenter, would be for a course using MKS units. Thus quantities are volts, amps, Tesla, Coulombs, Farads, Henrys, amp-turns, meters etc. Avoid most EE courses (generally they minimize the math). Advanced EE electricial circuits courses MAY get into poles, zeroes, and stability diagrams.
 
While not focusing on e&m you may enjoy the Dover book 'Mathematics of classical and quantum physics'.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/048667164X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

EDIT: on second thought, this may not be what you are looking for (ie: perhaps you looking for a differential forms treatment of E&M?)
 
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Hi,

You might want to take a look at the following book:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0817642226/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It basically discusses electromagnetism from an axiomatic point in terms of differential geometry. Especially if you are a mathematician this will probably be very interesting.
Parts of it are available online on the homepage of the author:
http://www.thp.uni-koeln.de/gravitation/mitarbeiter/Birkshowme.pdf"

A few suggestions for other topics (I only cite books which are on a mathematically quite high level):
Mechanics: Mathematical Methods in Classical Mechanics by V.I. Arnol'd
Quantum Mechanics: Mathematical Concepts of Quantum Mechanics by Gustafson and Sigal
and of course the books by Reed and Simon
GR: Large Scale Structure of Space-time by Hawking and Ellis
 
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robphy said:
Purcell

Seconded.
 
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