Problem book to accompany Feynman Lectures?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding suitable textbooks and problem books to accompany the Feynman Lectures on Physics. Participants share their experiences and recommendations for resources that would aid in understanding physics concepts, particularly for someone preparing for a degree in Engineering Physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to engage deeply with physics using the Feynman Lectures, despite acknowledging the challenges posed by the problems.
  • Another participant suggests several textbooks, including "Mechanics" by Kleppner and Kolenkow, "Electricity and Magnetism" by Purcell, and "Waves" by Crawford, seeking feedback on these choices.
  • A different participant questions the appropriateness of using the Feynman Lectures as a starting point for someone without prior physics experience and recommends starting with "H&R&K Physics" before progressing to other texts.
  • One participant mentions a problem book that accompanies the Feynman Lectures, noting uncertainty about its quality, and suggests that foundational knowledge in special relativity may be beneficial before tackling more advanced texts.
  • Another participant highlights a recently published collection of exercises used at Caltech for the Feynman Lectures course, suggesting it as a valuable resource.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the suitability of starting with the Feynman Lectures, with some recommending foundational texts first. There is no consensus on the best approach or resources, indicating multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on the participant's prior knowledge and experience with physics, and there is an acknowledgment of varying levels of difficulty among the recommended texts.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for a degree in Engineering Physics or those interested in self-study of physics using the Feynman Lectures may find this discussion helpful.

CrunchBerries
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I am not quite taking Engineering Physics yet, but in preperation for a future degree I would like to jump in with both feet and take a journey through physics using the master's lectures.

I know i will be in over my head with the problems, but i am extremely passionate about the subject, determined, and do have a introductory background in calculus. I love math, I love physics and this challenge is very appealing to me.

I would like suggestions for textbooks/problem books, hopefully with a few pointers and tips that would be helpful throughout my journey.

Thank you kindly
 
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After doing a bit of research I have found a few books:

1. TIPS
2. Mechanics: Kleppner and Kolenkow - An introduction to Mechanics
3. Electromagnetism: Purcell - Electricity and Magnetism
4. Waves: Crawford - Waves Volume 3

Any comments or suggestions on these?

Thanks
 
Using the masters lectures? Dramatic much?

There is a problem book to accompany FL that is on sale now. I don't know about the quality, I've never gone through it. Your other post list all good texts, but not what I'd recommend if you've never taken physics before. I would start with H&R&K Physics, 4th/5th edition, volume 1 at a minimum before then going through K&K and Purcell after you've supplemented with some SR before hand.
 
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Thank you, I will check out HRK Physics.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
That's perfect, I'll order that. Thank you
 

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