Math student want to study physics

AI Thread Summary
A PhD student in abstract algebra seeks recommendations for self-studying physics. A suggestion is made for Spivak's "Physics for Mathematicians," which is noted for its rigorous approach that may appeal to those with a mathematical background. However, concerns are raised about the book's effectiveness, with one participant expressing disappointment and advising against it. They emphasize the challenge mathematicians face in accepting concepts in physics without proof, as physics often relies on empirical validation rather than mathematical rigor. An alternative resource is recommended through a link to a general guide for physics books.
kahlid
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Hi,

I am a PhD student majoring in abstract algebra and I want to learn physics_self-study_, what books do you recommend ?
 
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kahlid said:
Hi,

I am a PhD student majoring in abstract algebra and I want to learn physics_self-study_, what books do you recommend ?

What physics do you already know and what do you want to know?
 
Depending on how much you suffer from mathematician's brain, you might like Spivak's Physics for Mathematicians. The notes the book developed from are here.

The problem with learning physics for a mathematician is that it's very hard to get comfortable with believing things just because they seem to work. No proof is needed, because if it works that is the proof. But Spivak gets rigorous in a way only a mathematician can enjoy.
 
IGU said:
The problem with learning physics for a mathematician is that it's very hard to get comfortable with believing things just because they seem to work. No proof is needed, because if it works that is the proof.
Can you, please, provide some examples.
 
I highly recommend against Spivak's physics book. The book is very awkward and disappointing. There are many good physics books out there, but Spivak is definitely not one of them.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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