Mathematical methods for physics textbooks?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the recommendation of mathematical textbooks for physics students, specifically highlighting "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Mary Boas as a preferred choice over Arfken's book. Participants also endorse "Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering" by Riley, Hobson, and Bence, noting its suitability for Cambridge Natural Sciences. The consensus emphasizes that familiarity with multi-variable calculus and vector analysis is beneficial, as the minimum prerequisite is single-variable calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Multi-variable calculus
  • Linear algebra
  • Vector analysis
  • Single-variable calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Mary Boas
  • Explore "Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering" by Riley, Hobson, and Bence
  • Study vector analysis techniques from Murray Spiegel's "Div, Grad, Curl, and all that"
  • Review foundational concepts in single-variable calculus
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators in mathematical methods, and anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of mathematics applied to physical sciences.

jackiefrost
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I was looking for a decent, broad-ranged mathematical textbook oriented towards physics students. I'm interested in "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Mary Boas (over Arfken's book) and was wondering if any of you have any advice.

[BTW - I only have seriously studied through multi-variable calculus and linear algebra though I've picked up a great deal of vector analysis through Murray Spiegel's Shaums study and "Div, Grad, Curl, and all that"].

Thanks
 
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Well I'm no expert but I've heard people speak highly of Riley, Hobson and Bence. It's recommended for the Cambridge NatScis so it can't be all that bad :)
 
Boas is a good choice. It's also good that you're familiar with mv-calc. and vector analysis, since the minimum requirements is just single-variable calc.
 

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