Textbook for physics programming

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding a suitable textbook for programming simple physics models, specifically in C++. The user initially considers "Physics for Game Developers" but is concerned it does not teach C++. Another user advises selecting a book that emphasizes algorithms over basic programming concepts, as the recommended book contains significant C++ tutorials. The consensus is to seek resources that integrate C++ learning with physics applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts from introductory courses.
  • Familiarity with programming languages, particularly Java and Python.
  • Knowledge of C++ syntax and structure.
  • Experience with algorithms and data structures.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research textbooks that focus on physics programming in C++, such as "Physics for Game Developers."
  • Explore online resources or courses that teach C++ alongside physics modeling.
  • Investigate algorithm design specifically for physics simulations.
  • Look into community forums or groups focused on physics programming in C++.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for computer science majors, physics students, and anyone interested in integrating C++ programming with physics modeling and simulations.

Carnivroar
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Can anyone recommend me a textbook that teaches you how to write simple physics models? I would like to take everything I learned this year in physics 1 and create a program for it since I'm also a comp sci major.

This is the best one I found so far but I'm not sure if it's exactly what I need.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0521827787/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Any others?
 
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Do you have a programming language preference?

If you are also a computer science major and have experience programming, you may want to pick a book that skips basic programming concepts, and is more about general algorithms. For example, the book you linked to is nearly half about basic C++! That may be a waste of time if you have already had a basic programming course.
 
bcbwilla said:
Do you have a programming language preference?

If you are also a computer science major and have experience programming, you may want to pick a book that skips basic programming concepts, and is more about general algorithms. For example, the book you linked to is nearly half about basic C++! That may be a waste of time if you have already had a basic programming course.

Oops, I thought I had mentioned it - I'm looking for books in C++ specifically. I want to learn C++ while practicing physics - 2 birds 1 stone o:). I know nothing of C++, only Java and Python. So if what you say is true (that half of the book is a tutorial on C++), that doesn't sound like a bad idea at all. Do you have the book?

Someone recommended me Physics for Game Developers. It looks pretty good too, just what I wanted (basic graphic mechanics), but apparently it doesn't actually teach C++.
 

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