What are some textbooks and problem sets I can use to learn physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion emphasizes the necessity of understanding calculus to effectively learn physics, specifically recommending the textbook "Thomas Calculus With Analytic Geometry, 3rd Edition" as an essential starting point. It argues against the use of pre-calculus physics, stating that avoiding calculus complicates the learning process. After grasping basic calculus, the text "Fundamental University Physics" by Alonso and Finn is suggested for further study. The consensus is clear: a solid foundation in calculus is crucial for mastering physics concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts
  • Familiarity with "Thomas Calculus With Analytic Geometry, 3rd Edition"
  • Knowledge of physics fundamentals
  • Ability to solve mathematical problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "Thomas Calculus With Analytic Geometry, 3rd Edition"
  • Explore "Fundamental University Physics" by Alonso and Finn
  • Practice calculus problem sets to reinforce understanding
  • Research additional calculus-based physics resources
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, aspiring physicists, and anyone seeking a rigorous understanding of physics through calculus-based approaches.

vadimuha
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I'm looking to pre-calculus physics textbooks with problems sets. I need something as rigorous as possible. Problem sets can be separate from textbooks
 
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If I may ask: what is your reason for studying physics. If you really want to understand you will need to know the calculus and so that is where one should start, along with calculus based physics.
 
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Indeed, instead of struggling with "pre-calculus physics" rather start learning calculus, which you can also do in parallel by learning physics. Restricting yourself to non-calculus math makes it rather much more difficult than simpler to understand and communicate about physics. It's an unfortunate wrong track by some physics didacts to avoid the adequate math. It's in fact a lie to students to claim you could understand physics without calculus.
 
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A simple calculus book to get you started in learning Calculus is Thomas Calculus With Analytic Geometry 3rd edition. Make sure it is the 3rd edition. Higher number editions are entirely different books.

Once you learn a bit of calculus, have a look at Alonso and Finn: Fundamental University Physics.
 
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