Which book is better for physics: Young or Tipler?

In summary, Tipler is a good book, but it may not be the best for someone just starting out. Young and Freedman is also a good book, but it may be more challenging for someone just starting out.
  • #1
Lariko
3
0
I'm looking for a university physics book that is comprised of excellent pedagogical exposition and is very comprehensive.I've considered these two candidates:

1. Tipler
2. Young/FreedmanWhat do you suggest?
 
  • #3
People do discuss introductory textbooks often here. This is probably just a slow period. Try using PF's search feature, and tick the box that restricts searches to this forum (Science and Math Textbooks). If you search for "Freedman", you'll find previous posts that mention that book, and many of them will mention other books as well, including Tipler.
 
  • #4
Hmm. We used giancoli physics for scientists and engineers. The book was clear. Although their is not much difference between standard physics books. I found Giancoli to be a lot better than serway, in explaining concepts. In particular the chapter explaining harmonic motion, serway did not show how differentials in arriving towards the formulas.

In our class suspends used a combination of books. My buddy used young and freedom and it is better than giancoli. The exercises in Freedman are a bit more challenging.

Others used tipler. I read 3 chapters from tipler, although I understood it, the others books mentioned did a better job.

I would stick with young and freedman.
 
  • #5
I used Tipler in my introductory physics sequence and I had no real complaints with it.
 
  • #6
I used Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Randall Knight. I've heard great things about Young and Freedman. Based on most amazon reviews, Tipler is middle of the road. I used Knight to study for engineering physics exemption exams (self-study) and I passed both Mechanics and E&M (somehow). Y&F has some very tough problems which will definitely benefit you later down the road.
 
  • #7
Dexter K said:
I used Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Randall Knight. I've heard great things about Young and Freedman. Based on most amazon reviews, Tipler is middle of the road. I used Knight to study for engineering physics exemption exams (self-study) and I passed both Mechanics and E&M (somehow). Y&F has some very tough problems which will definitely benefit you later down the road.
Is Knight a good book?
 

1. Which book is better for physics: Young or Tipler?

It ultimately depends on the individual's learning style and preferences. Some may find Young's "University Physics" to be more rigorous and comprehensive, while others may prefer Tipler's "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" for its more conceptual approach.

2. Is one book more suitable for beginners?

Both books are commonly used as introductory textbooks for physics courses, so either one can be suitable for beginners. However, Young's "University Physics" may be more challenging for those without a strong math background.

3. Which book has better visuals and illustrations?

Both books have high-quality visuals and illustrations to aid in understanding complex concepts. However, Tipler's "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" may have a slight edge in this aspect.

4. Are there any notable differences in the content of the two books?

While both books cover the fundamental principles of physics, there may be slight differences in the depth and organization of the content. Tipler's "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" may have a more modern approach and include more recent developments in the field.

5. Which book is more widely used in universities?

Both books are commonly used in universities, so it is difficult to determine which one is more widely used. However, Young's "University Physics" may be more popular in certain regions or institutions.

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