What books must we phycists read?

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SUMMARY

This discussion emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality physics textbooks for aspiring physicists. Key recommendations include A. P. French's "Newtonian Mechanics," "Vibrations and Waves," and "Special Relativity," all part of the MIT Introductory Physics Series, which are praised for their clarity and pedagogical approach. Additionally, Purcell's "Electricity and Magnetism," now in its third edition, is highlighted as a crucial resource for understanding electromagnetism. The participants express dissatisfaction with the quality of printed editions from Norton, despite their affordability.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts
  • Understanding of classical mechanics
  • Knowledge of electromagnetism
  • Ability to engage with advanced physics texts
NEXT STEPS
  • Read A. P. French's "Newtonian Mechanics" for a comprehensive understanding of classical mechanics
  • Explore "Vibrations and Waves" by A. P. French to grasp oscillatory phenomena
  • Study "Special Relativity" by A. P. French for insights into relativistic physics
  • Investigate Purcell's "Electricity and Magnetism" for a thorough exploration of electromagnetism
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of fundamental physics through recommended literature.

SpaceNerdz
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I hated hated my Phyiscs textbook Fundamental Physics. I'm going to have to take charge of my own education now and just rely not that book. Does anyone here know of any book Physics Books/Text Books that are essential for for one to be Phycisist ? I mean, I found Feynman's Lectures -- books of that quality and clarity. Or any physics book that you think all physicist must read!
 
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Have a look at A. P. French's books from the MIT Introductory Physics Series.

Newtonian Mechanics
Vibrations and Waves
Special Relativity
and An Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

They are a bit old, but at least the first three are IMO masterpieces of physics education.

The first one, Newtonian Mechanics, is considered a bit too verbose by some, but I believe that to be one of its strengths: French leaves nothing unexplained and prevents many of the students questions and doubts.

If you seek clarity and a truly pedagogical approach, French won't let you down. I wish I had used the Newtonian Mechanics book as my first physics book. And the Vibrations and Waves book as my first intro to oscillatory phenomena. For Electromagnetism there is Purcell's "Electricity and Magnetism" from the Berkely Physics Course. It is now in its third edition.

Too bad Norton is publishing poorly printed and bound editions of French's books. (They are cheap, though)
 
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