Undergraduate Physics Book Recommendation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for undergraduate physics textbooks, particularly in the context of preparing for the GRE. Participants share their experiences with various books and suggest additional resources for different levels of physics study.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions using "PHYSICS" by Hans C. Ohanian, noting gaps in coverage for GRE preparation.
  • Another participant suggests that the recommended books are primarily for freshman-level physics and emphasizes the need for intermediate to upper-level texts in specific subjects like mechanics and quantum mechanics.
  • A participant shares links to external resources that may provide additional guidance on physics GRE preparation and textbook recommendations.
  • One participant recalls a physics book from their undergraduate studies, identifying it as authored by Halliday and Resnick, based on a vague memory.
  • Two participants inquire about the specific subject of the GRE being taken, indicating a focus on physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the adequacy of freshman-level textbooks for GRE preparation, with some advocating for more advanced resources. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best recommendations for various levels of study.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the limitations of their current textbooks in addressing specific GRE topics, indicating a potential need for more comprehensive resources.

Bill Foster
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that covers the fundamentals of undergraduate physics.

I have been using a book that's more than 20 years old called "PHYSICS" by Hans C. Ohanian. While using it to prepare for the GRE, I have found things on the practice exams that were not addressed in that book.

I've been considering this one: University Physics with Modern Physics with MasteringPhysics(TM) (12th Edition) (MasteringPhysics Series) (Hardcover)
by Hugh D. Young (Author), Roger A. Freedman (Author)

Thanks.
 
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The books you name are freshman-level books. You need to review also from intermediate to upper level books in specific subjects such as mechanics, electricity & magnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, ...
 
For a long time I've been trying to remember the author of the physics book I used in undergrad school. The only thing I could rememebr about it was that it was black, and it seemed like a decent book.

Well, I went to those links above and found a book by Halliday and Resnick. In the deep recesses of my cluttered up storeroom memory, a light went on when I heard the name "Halliday". I'm pretty sure that was the author's name of my undergrad physics book.

I can remember my calculus book's author no problem. Zill.
 
What subject are you taking the GRE in?
 
marcusl said:
What subject are you taking the GRE in?

I took it November 3 in physics.
 

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