Intro Physics Recommended Textbooks for AP Physics 1/2: Non-Calculus Based Options

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommended textbooks for the AP Physics 1/2 course, which is confirmed to be non-calculus based. Key textbook recommendations include "Physics: Principles with Applications" by Douglas C. Giancoli and "Fundamentals of Physics" by David Halliday, Robert Resnick, and Jearl Walker. Participants emphasize the importance of using multiple resources, including MOOCs from platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera, to enhance understanding of topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, and electricity. The consensus is that a combination of textbooks and supplementary online materials will provide a comprehensive preparation for the AP test.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as mechanics and thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with algebra-based physics principles
  • Knowledge of online learning platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera
  • Ability to navigate and evaluate textbook resources
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Physics: Principles with Applications" by Douglas C. Giancoli
  • Explore "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker
  • Investigate online courses on Khan Academy related to AP Physics
  • Review additional resources for AP Physics preparation on Coursera and edX
USEFUL FOR

High school students preparing for the AP Physics 1/2 exam, educators seeking textbook recommendations, and anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of algebra-based physics concepts.

WILL ZHANG
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I'm currently in high school and I'm looking to buy/rent a textbook so I can prepare myself for next year's AP Physics 1/2 class and so I can do well on the AP test. I'm pretty sure the course isn't calculus based. I know for sure my physics class will cover: mechanics, kinetic theory and thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and modern physics. Any recommendations for a good textbook?

So far I'm interested in these textbooks:
1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0321568095/?tag=pfamazon01-20

2)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0990724301/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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It's quite usual to read 2-4 books to understand the subject.
So, get both of the books, Will )
And be ready for more.

Also, don't forget about MOOCs (khan academy, edx, coursera, udacity) and other youtube videos.
In Physics, it's often better to see than to hear.
 
I assisted (minimally) in choosing the textbook for the AP Physics 1 class for my school, and I believe that my recommendation and the one that the teacher decided on was https://www.amazon.com/dp/0321625927/?tag=pfamazon01-20(it could have also been https://www.amazon.com/dp/0321879724/?tag=pfamazon01-20 as I don't remember exactly, but I'm pretty sure it was Giancoli. Sorry - I know that's not helpful!). I remember looking at the introduction of Newton's laws in it, and it actually gave fairly good (and in some ways rigorous) explanations, in my opinion, for an algebra based physics text.
 
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Get a college level calculus based physics book. Any would do, i.e., Giancoli,Resnick, Serway etc.
 
MidgetDwarf said:
Get a college level calculus based physics book. Any would do, i.e., Giancoli,Resnick, Serway etc.
I do not believe AP Physics 1 is calculus based.
 
smodak said:
I do not believe AP Physics 1 is calculus based.

That is great to know. I was under the assumption. :)
 
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i am self learning physics. have you ever worked your way backwards again after finishing most undergrad courses? i have textbooks for junior/senior physics courses in classical mechanics, electrodynamics, thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods for self learning. i have the Halliday Resnick sophomore book. working backwards, i checked out Conceptual Physics 11th edition by Hewitt and found this book very helpful. What i liked most was how stimulating the pictures...

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