Please help me start studying physics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on self-directed study in physics, specifically for someone with a background in GCSE mathematics and physics, aiming to pursue astrophysics or quantum physics. Key resources recommended include the A-level mathematics syllabus from Exam Solutions and Khan Academy for foundational knowledge. Participants emphasized the importance of understanding personal goals and suggested building math skills before tackling advanced topics. A notable recommendation for further study is Andrew Liddle's "Introduction to Modern Cosmology."

PREREQUISITES
  • GCSE-level mathematics and physics knowledge
  • Familiarity with A-level mathematics concepts
  • Understanding of basic optics, specifically light refraction
  • Interest in astrophysics or quantum physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the A-level mathematics syllabus from Exam Solutions
  • Utilize Khan Academy for foundational physics and mathematics courses
  • Study Andrew Liddle's "Introduction to Modern Cosmology"
  • Explore advanced topics in astrophysics and quantum physics through online courses
USEFUL FOR

Individuals interested in self-studying physics, particularly those with a background in GCSE mathematics and physics who aspire to delve into astrophysics or quantum physics.

Samat03
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Could anyone please give me the right order of subjects to start studying physics? And if possible what type of maths I need to go alongside it. I'm not in any type of school I just wanna do this in my free time and have no idea where to start.
Thanks
 
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:welcome:

Are you completely new to the subject or do you already have some physics or maths knowledge?
 
So I've done GCSE maths and physics both with A*, I had started A levels in the same subjects but then left everything when covid happened and havent done anything since so a good refresher would help about GCSE level and last thing i can remember doing in college was calculating the bending light through water if that helps
 
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math problems?
 
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Samat03 said:
So I've done GCSE maths and physics both with A*, I had started A levels in the same subjects but then left everything when covid happened and havent done anything since so a good refresher would help about GCSE level and last thing i can remember doing in college was calculating the bending light through water if that helps
The A-level mathematics syllabus can be found here (you can also revise GCSE).

https://www.examsolutions.net

The other option for everything is the Khan Academy:

https://www.khanacademy.org/
 
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Dale said:
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math probl

Dale said:
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math problems?
Well my goal astrophysics or quantum physics, astrophysics has been my dream/passion since I was a kid but was never committed enough and now that I've left all studies and have been working for a few years I realise I miss it a lot and yes I really enjoy working math problems, It's always been my strong point, I'm a bit rusty now but I feel more committed now so I want to get back into it by myself at home but don't know where to start
 
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Samat03 said:
Well my goal astrophysics or quantum physics, astrophysics has been my dream/passion since I was a kid but was never committed enough and now that I've left all studies and have been working for a few years I realise I miss it a lot and yes I really enjoy working math problems, It's always been my strong point, I'm a bit rusty now but I feel more committed now so I want to get back into it by myself at home but don't know where to start
Once you get your maths and physics skills build up, you could aim for Andrew Liddle's Introduction to Modern Cosmology:

https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/An_Introduction_to_Modern_Cosmology/6n64CAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=0

That would be something to set your sights on.
 
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