Questions regarding special relativity.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the exploration of special relativity (SR) for beginners, particularly in relation to learning electricity and magnetism (E&M) from Purcell's textbook. Participants recommend T.M. Helliwell's introductory book on SR, noting that the 1960s edition is available for a low price but questioning the significance of the additional content in newer editions. Griffith's book is also mentioned as a suitable introduction to SR concepts, specifically Lorentz transformations, which are essential for understanding Purcell's material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics principles from KK Introductory Mechanics
  • Familiarity with electricity and magnetism concepts
  • Knowledge of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Exposure to introductory physics textbooks, such as Griffith's
NEXT STEPS
  • Research T.M. Helliwell's introductory book on special relativity
  • Explore Griffith's textbook for foundational concepts in electricity and magnetism
  • Investigate the differences between the 1960s and newer editions of Helliwell's book
  • Study the overview of special relativity provided in Purcell's E&M textbook
USEFUL FOR

Students new to physics, educators seeking introductory resources, and anyone interested in understanding special relativity in the context of electricity and magnetism.

MidgetDwarf
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I recently found and interest in physics after reading KK Introductory Mechanics. I was thinking of learning EnM from Purcell. From my reading of these forums. Purcell introduces Max. Equations using special relativity. I do not know anything about SR (you can I am a virgin at physics).

I read that T.M helliwell was a good place to start, and Wheeler also.

I found a copy of Helliwell for 6 dollars, it is the 1960's edition (maybe 1st), it is 209 pages compared to the newer 300 and something. Should I get the older one are the 100 pages substantial information not present in the first edition.Does anyone have better alternatives? I don't want to actually read a special relativity book with the same rigor as say Spivak Calculus at this moment. Just enough to have an understanding of what is happening in Purcell. Thanks
 
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Griffith's is a decent introduction to both.
 
I actually found this book to be nice for SR:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0072397144/?tag=pfamazon01-20
It's not completely thorough, merely a great introduction to Lorentz transformations and things like that. It absolutely covers everything used by Purcell, and then Purcell has a brief (~5 pg) overview of the SR needed to work through the E&M problems.
 

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