Physics books for a mathematician

[Oats]

Hello, I am a first-year mathematics PhD student. I am completely initiated in rigorous mathematics, and have a strong intuitive and working understanding of basic mathematics concepts across analysis and algebra.

I also have a strong interest in physics, and want to learn enough to be quite advanced in the subject, especially fields like quantum mechanics. While I have a good collection of books and a pretty well-established progression of math texts for me to read in the future, I don't have the same for physics. What are some good physics books for someone of my background?
Of course, it may entirely be the case that it doesn't offer too much of an advantage, in which case I should just go through a standard book progression.
As a physics background, I did take a standard physics 1 course back in undergrad and did very well in it, but don't remember much.
Thanks in advance for any response.

 

[marcusl]

I suggest that you look at the 10 volume series called Course in Theoretical Physics by Landau and Lifshitz. These are known for rigor with a high degree of physical insight and beauty. Try vol. 1 Mechanics to see how you like it. As you progress, you can begin to pick and choose topics, and supplement with other authors. Dirac’s Quantum Mechanics appeals to many mathematically-minded.

 

[George Jones]

Hello, I am a first-year mathematics PhD student. I am completely initiated in rigorous mathematics, and have a strong intuitive and working understanding of basic mathematics concepts across analysis and algebra.

I also have a strong interest in physics, and want to learn enough to be quite advanced in the subject, especially fields like quantum mechanics..

As a quantum mechanics book suitable for someone with your background, I highly recommend "Quantum Theory for Mathematicians" by Hall,

https://www.amazon.com/dp/146147115X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It is a very beautiful book.

 

[Demystifier]

@Oats would you like to learn physics from a mathematician perspective or from a physicist perspective? For instance, are you more interested in theorems or in physical intuition?

 

[dextercioby]

You cannot go to QM without going through classical mechanics first. So first read Vladimir Arnold's beautiful book on the mathematical methods of mechanics.