What are the necessary prerequisites for understanding Gravitation?

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SUMMARY

Understanding "Gravitation" by John Wheeler, Kip Thorne, and Charles Misner requires a solid foundation in both mathematics and physics, particularly in general relativity and special relativity. The discussion emphasizes that high school physics is insufficient for comprehending the complexities of the text. A thorough study of these subjects over several years is necessary to grasp the concepts presented in the book. Readers are advised to tackle special relativity before attempting to understand general relativity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Advanced undergraduate or graduate-level understanding of general relativity
  • Strong foundation in special relativity
  • Proficiency in higher mathematics, including calculus and differential equations
  • Background in classical mechanics and electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "A First Course in General Relativity" by Bernard Schutz
  • Learn the fundamentals of special relativity through "Spacetime Physics" by Edwin F. Taylor and John Archibald Wheeler
  • Review calculus and differential equations using "Calculus" by Michael Spivak
  • Explore classical mechanics concepts with "Classical Mechanics" by Herbert Goldstein
USEFUL FOR

Students and enthusiasts of physics, particularly those aiming to deepen their understanding of general relativity and special relativity, as well as educators seeking to guide learners through the complexities of advanced physics texts.

billbrown1997
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I recently got my hands on a copy of Gravitation by John Wheeler, Kip Thorn and Charles Misner. Reading the first few pages are very discouraging. The limit of my physics knowledge are from taking high school physics. What book would give me the knowledge I need to read Gravitation?
 
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General relativity is typically taken as an advanced undergraduate or as a graduate course. Having the prerequisites involves studying mathematics and physics for several years. It will not be sufficient to simply read a book.
 
Combat Special Relativity before you face that monster of a subject.
 

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