Modern Physics/Structure of Matter

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a student studying the "Structure of Matter" using the textbook "Modern Physics" by John Morrison. The student seeks recommendations for supplementary materials that provide more problems and worked examples, specifically mentioning Schaum's Outlines as a potential resource. Key chapters of focus include Hydrogen Atom, Many Electron Atoms, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics. The student expresses a preference for clearer texts, citing previous experiences with confusing materials like Atkins and finding clarity in Ira Levine's work.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of key concepts in Modern Physics, particularly the Hydrogen Atom and Many Electron Atoms.
  • Familiarity with Particle Physics and Nuclear Physics principles.
  • Experience with problem-solving techniques in physics education.
  • Knowledge of supplementary educational resources like Schaum's Outlines.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Schaum's Outline series for physics problem sets and solutions.
  • Explore alternative textbooks that focus on clarity and problem-solving in Modern Physics.
  • Investigate online forums or communities for shared resources and study strategies in physics.
  • Review example exams and practice problems related to the Structure of Matter to enhance understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying Modern Physics, educators seeking supplementary teaching materials, and anyone looking to improve their understanding of the Structure of Matter through practical problem-solving approaches.

Mépris
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Hi,

I will need to write an exam on Structure of Matter soon. The book the course is based on is Modern Physics by John Morrison. I feel like it's a bit too wordy, and confusing.

Do you know of any books that has more problems with solutions and/or many worked examples? Would a Schaum's Outline be an appropriate supplement? I learn better when I have worked examples, and problems that gradually increase in difficulty.

The chapters covered in the courses are 4 (Hydrogen Atom), 5 (Many Electron Atoms), 13 (Particle Physics), and 14 (Nuclear Physics). I have also uploaded an example exam that was provided to us. There are 3 questions. I would be most grateful if you could perhaps take a look at it, and then suggest a book. That way, you'd get a sense of what level the course is at.

Note: I don't go to a US university, and not all of my courses have suitable books prescribed. For e.g, my previous Thermo course used Atkins, and I found that book really confusing. After searching here, I found another book by Ira Levine that was a hell of a lot clearer, and I understood the derivations a lot better.

Thanks!
 

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One can have liking for one book over other, but the knowledge and what you understand or are able to solve should not be too much book-centric. At times we get better insights out of the confusions which can be talked about aloud. And these insights can help you understand the subject better and also help you to solve problem. You say the book confuses you kindly share your confusion here. Do not be afraid of and hide your confusion. At times confusion generates the understanding.
 
Thanks for your reply.

I can appreciate what you're saying, but at the same time, some books are just not clearly written. Or rather, they don't cater as well to everyone, and in which case, finding a better book is a good option. I guess I will keep searching.

Having said that, I will post my questions in the relevant sub forum as I study, no matter how dumb. :-)
 

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