Studying Undergraduate Physics: Study Modern Physics & Get Concepts Clear

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The discussion centers on the challenges faced in understanding advanced physics topics such as relativistic energies, the Compton effect, and the specific heats of multi-atomic gases, following an introductory course that began with light and blackbody radiation. The course at IIT Bombay covers foundational topics like atomic structure, the photoelectric effect, and blackbody radiation laws, leading into quantum mechanics. Participants emphasize the importance of mastering basic concepts before tackling more complex subjects. Recommendations for study methods and resources are sought, with a focus on finding suitable textbooks that clarify these advanced topics. The course structure and content are noted as being rigorous, reflecting the institution's high academic standards.
Titan97
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My college started physics course with light and blackbody radiation. I am facing difficulties in understanding relativistic energies, Compton effect and specific heats of multi atomic gases. Can you suggest a method for studying modern physics and suggest some good books for getting my concepts clear?
 
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My college started physics course with light and blackbody radiation.
?
 
they did. at first the prof taught random things from atomic structure. then he discussed light (photoelectric effect, compton effect). Then came blackbody radiation (Rayliegh-jeans law, stefans law, etc) and now we will start quantum mechanics soon. This is my college: http://www.iitb.ac.in/ (IIT Bombay, the best college in my country). Please help me.

Can you suggest a good book that deals with the above topics?
 
Titan97 said:
they did. at first the prof taught random things from atomic structure. then he discussed light (photoelectric effect, compton effect). Then came blackbody radiation (Rayliegh-jeans law, stefans law, etc) and now we will start quantum mechanics soon. This is my college: http://www.iitb.ac.in/ (IIT Bombay, the best college in my country). Please help me.

Can you suggest a good book that deals with the above topics?
Physics instruction begins with Kinematics and Mechanics. After that is learned enough, the topics taught are Electricity & Magnetism. You do not want to try skipping the more basic topics.

This page was also on that site: https://portal.iitb.ac.in/asc/Courses
You should find the courses you need in that listing.
 
I have already learned those in high school. And the courses given are not for first years. These are the lectures I was given. (these lectures are common for every branch in first year)
 

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Thread 'Self Learning Math/Physics'

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Thread 'What should I do if I found a paper with same result as mine?'

Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...
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