Solid State Physics: Charles Kittel vs. Ashcroft

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of two textbooks for an introductory solid state physics course: Charles Kittel's book and Ashcroft's book. Participants are exploring whether these books cover similar material and their appropriateness for beginners in the subject.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about Kittel's book due to its poor reviews on Amazon and questions whether it is comparable to Ashcroft's book.
  • Another participant suggests that Dekker's book is preferable for beginners in solid state physics.
  • Multiple participants recommend Dekker's book, indicating it is suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on which textbook is superior, as participants recommend different books and express varying opinions on Kittel's and Ashcroft's suitability.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided detailed comparisons of the content covered in Kittel's and Ashcroft's books, nor have they discussed specific aspects of solid state physics that may influence their recommendations.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students studying solid state physics, particularly those seeking textbook recommendations and guidance on suitable resources for beginners.

SANGHERA.JAS
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Hello everyone,
I am an undergraduate student and this year I am going to study Introductory Solid State Physics. My instructor has assigned us book of Charles Kittel. But the book has got terrible reviews on amazon. So I fear purchasing it. However there is an another book by Ashcroft that has got pretty good reviews. My question is:
1. Are these two books similar that is do they cover same material.
2. As I am totally novice in solid state physics, are these books especially Ashcroft's book, suitable for me. (I have sufficient background).
Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
for solid state physics prefer dekker it is so good for the beginner
 
sanghera.jas said:
hello everyone,
i am an undergraduate student and this year i am going to study introductory solid state physics. My instructor has assigned us book of charles kittel. But the book has got terrible reviews on amazon. So i fear purchasing it. However there is an another book by ashcroft that has got pretty good reviews. My question is:
1. Are these two books similar that is do they cover same material.
2. As i am totally novice in solid state physics, are these books especially ashcroft's book, suitable for me. (i have sufficient background).
Thank you.

hai i would suggest you solid state physics by dekker it is so good for under graduate students as well as graduate students.
 
physicsdoubts said:
for solid state physics prefer dekker it is so good for the beginner
Thank you.
 

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