What are the best resources for learning physics as a high school student?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the best resources for high school students learning physics, specifically targeting a 10th grader currently studying basic motion equations, gravitation, and conservation of momentum. The student expresses a desire to delve into advanced topics such as relativity, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism while also needing to strengthen their mathematics foundation, particularly in calculus. The consensus emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamental concepts before progressing to more complex physics topics, akin to building a skyscraper on a solid foundation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts such as motion equations and gravitation.
  • Familiarity with Algebra 2 mathematics.
  • Knowledge of AP Chemistry principles.
  • Willingness to learn calculus and pre-calculus concepts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore online resources for learning calculus, such as Khan Academy or Coursera.
  • Study introductory materials on relativity and quantum mechanics through platforms like edX.
  • Utilize physics simulation tools like PhET to visualize complex mechanics.
  • Engage with AP Physics preparatory materials to align with future coursework.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students, particularly those in 10th grade or preparing for AP Physics, as well as educators seeking to guide students in building a strong foundation in physics and mathematics.

magicsdevil
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I realize that you guys have a forum for learning resources/materials, but I was having a bit of a hard time trying to sift though the material and pick up on things that I could understand and would benefit me.
(I realize that this might not be the right section to post in, but I wasn't able to post in the learning resources forum, so feel free to move this where ever.)

I am currently only in the 10th grade here in the US and so I have some pretty skeletal understanding of the kind of stuff that belongs on this forum. However I am not completely clueless, and I am currently finishing the Physics and AP Chemistry courses at my high school. Most of the things covered in Physics are basic motion equations, gravitation, conservation of momentum, small amounts of astronomy, etc.

I am really interested in things like relativity, QM, electromagnetism, more complex mechanics, etc.

Sadly I also need some maths to go with it as in the curriculum I am in I am currently in Algebra 2. Which at least at my school is a pretty easy class and I have felt that I might be better off supplementing my learning of maths online as well.

I do plan on taking AP Physics my 12th year, but as I said, I am still working towards calculus (so pre-calculus, I guess) and would like to be able to learn calculus in the relatively near future.

Thanks in advance for any help you guys can give me!
 
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Learn the basics, as everything is built off of them. If you don't learn the classical concepts that you listed, you cannot learn the more advanced stuff that you want to learn. Physics, and especially very advanced physics, is like a tall building with the more advanced stuff further up. You can't build a skyscraper if you don't have the first 10 floors and the foundation.
 

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