Very very beginner books in Physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for beginner-level physics books, particularly for individuals with limited prior knowledge of physics. Participants explore the necessary mathematical background for studying physics and suggest resources that may be suitable for newcomers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to learn physics but feels their knowledge is very poor and seeks beginner-friendly book recommendations.
  • Another participant inquires about the original poster's level of mathematics, indicating its importance for learning physics.
  • A participant mentions that the original poster has an intermediate level of mathematics, having taken courses that include calculus.
  • There is a discussion about the necessity of understanding calculus, with one participant stating that proficiency in derivatives and integrals is essential for beginner physics.
  • One participant suggests starting with a specific book by Savov and provides links to the book and an extended preview, while expressing uncertainty about the suitability of algebra-based physics books.
  • The original poster acknowledges their mathematical proficiency and expresses willingness to explore the suggested resources.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of a solid mathematical foundation for studying physics, particularly calculus. However, there is no consensus on which specific books are best for beginners, and some uncertainty remains regarding the original poster's exact level of mathematical understanding.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully clarified the specific mathematical topics covered in the original poster's education, which may affect the suitability of recommended resources.

mecevik
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Hi!
I am new to this forum. If there is a topic similar to this plase ignore me for not seeing it.
In the last months, I have a feeling of wishing of learning physics. Therefore, I did some research that how to learn. I looked at a lot of sites but couldn't findy any specific books that are for foreigner of physics. I did find only one book called Feynnman Lectures on Physics. But when i looked at its comments, some of its readers say that this may not appropriate for beginners.
So, I would like to ask you again.
I should state that myknowlodge at physics very poor. Even nothing.
 
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Greg Bernhardt said:
What is your level of mathematics?

Intermediate.
 
mecevik said:
Intermediate.
So you've taken a couple calculus classes?
 
I live neither in America nor in England. Sorry for not understanding. In my country Math of essential education consist of two sections. One includes equations, powered numbers, root numbers and the others that can be called easy. And the other includes the topics like integral. I am very good at Math 1. And i learning math 2 now.
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
So you've taken a couple calculus classes?
Why aren't you answering?
 
mecevik said:
Why aren't you answering?
Because I am not sure we understand what exactly the level of your math education is. You have to do the required math if you want to learn physics. There are books that use Algebra to teach physics but I am not sure I like any of them. Why don't you start with something like Savov and then ask questions here if you get stuck.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0992001005/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Here is an extended preview https://minireference.com/static/excerpts/noBSguide_v5_preview.pdf - see whether this works for you. This is a very good book by the way.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
My
smodak said:
Because I am not sure we understand what exactly the level of your math education is. You have to do the required math if you want to learn physics. There are books that use Algebra to teach physics but I am not sure I like any of them. Why don't you start with something like Savov and then ask questions here if you get stuck.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0992001005/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Here is an extended preview https://minireference.com/static/excerpts/noBSguide_v5_preview.pdf - see whether this works for you. This is a very good book by the way.
Thanks for reply. I will take a look at what you said. Also my level of mathematics is good for physics. At least i think so.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
mecevik said:
Also my level of mathematics is good for physics.

For physics you need to be proficient in Calculus which consists of derivatives and integrals. I would say the bare minimum for beginner physics is being able to take a derivative and an integral (and knowing what it means to do so).
 

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