Classical Possible textbook for Classical Mechanics

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on recommendations for textbooks on classical mechanics, particularly for those seeking a balance between basic concepts and advanced topics like Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations. Several books are suggested, including Goldstein, Marion and Thornton, Symon, and Landau/Lifshitz, with varying opinions on their suitability for beginners. Goldstein is noted for its depth but may be challenging for newcomers. Marion and Thornton are recommended for those with a standard physics background, while some participants express a preference for older editions of textbooks to avoid unnecessary changes in newer versions. Concerns about the trend of altering classic texts for new editions are raised, emphasizing the value of original editions. The availability of affordable international editions is also mentioned as a cost-effective option for students.
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Hi, I was wondering what textbooks I should be looking at to learn classical mechanics. I have spent a lot of time looking, but none of the ones I found had what I was looking for. For example, one book would cover all basic concepts in classical mechanics, but then it wouldn't cover more advanced topics like the Lagrangian or Hamiltonian formulations. Instead, they would jump ahead and start talking about special relativity, or thermodynamics. If anyone has any suggestions, I would be very grateful for some input. I should also mention that mathematical rigor doesn't matter, I know single, and multivariable calculus, along with differential equations.
 
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Marion and Thornton if you have not had a course in classical mechanics, Symon also is a good choice.
 
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Avimanyu Ray said:
If Goldstein seems tough for introductory, then what book should I begin with?

I used Marion and Thornton 4e in university. My background was a standard three semester freshman/sophomore physics sequence, three semesters of calculus, a class in differential equations, and one intro linear/matrix algebra class.
 
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Avimanyu Ray said:
what book should I begin with?
How much math do you know?
 
jtbell said:
How much math do you know?
I wouldn't prefer much mathematical, as I'm not a pro in that. Like, I prefer Griffith to r.Shankar in quantum mechanics..so you see...
 
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alan2 said:
Old edition of Marion before they screwed it up. I also really like Barger and Olsson for a first course.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0124722520/?tag=pfamazon01-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/007003723X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Just out of curiosity, I am curious what do you mean by Marion's screwing up? I am actually considering buying his latest edition to do more problems, which were lacking at Landau/Lifshitz.

The OP should also consider L/L's VOl. I, which is great book for first introduction to the mechanics assuming that the OP has strong math background.
 
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bacte2013 said:
Just out of curiosity, I am curious what do you mean by Marion's screwing up? I am actually considering buying his latest edition to do more problems, which were lacking at Landau/Lifshitz.

Sorry, that's probably personal bias. Marion is probably one of the least offensive new editions. The trend is to continue publishing good books long after the author dies. Someone's name gets added, they edit and alter in a style which is different and interrupts the flow, add white space and useless color pictures to justify new editions and outrageous prices, etc. Calculus texts are the worst offenders.

As I said, Marion hasn't changed much. But if you can pick up an original for next to nothing you should do that instead of paying $200 for a new one.
 
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alan2 said:
Sorry, that's probably personal bias. Marion is probably one of the least offensive new editions. The trend is to continue publishing good books long after the author dies. Someone's name gets added, they edit and alter in a style which is different and interrupts the flow, add white space and useless color pictures to justify new editions and outrageous prices, etc. Calculus texts are the worst offenders.

As I said, Marion hasn't changed much. But if you can pick up an original for next to nothing you should do that instead of paying $200 for a new one.
The international edition is available for $12.70

https://www.amazon.com/dp/8131518477/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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