Who Can Achieve Landau's Theoretical Minimum in Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of Landau's Theoretical Minimum in physics, particularly focusing on the challenges of understanding the material presented in the Landau and Lifgarbagez series. Participants reflect on the feasibility of passing the associated exam and the implications of the material's depth and accessibility.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express skepticism about their ability to meet the requirements of Landau's Theoretical Minimum, describing it as "insane."
  • Others suggest that while the books are old, they remain relevant and can be useful for understanding new domains, provided one focuses solely on that content.
  • It is noted that only 43 people passed Landau's test between 1934 and 1961, which some participants find unsurprising given the rigor of the material.
  • One participant argues that the books are intended to be self-contained and introductory, with no strict prerequisites, while another counters that they serve better as a review for those already familiar with the material.
  • A question is raised about the possibility of identifying individuals who passed Landau's test, with a claim that some may have found mistakes in Landau's papers and passed as a result.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express differing views on the accessibility and comprehensiveness of Landau's books, with no consensus on whether they are suitable for beginners or primarily serve as a review for advanced learners.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the prerequisites for understanding the material and the specific criteria for passing Landau's test, as well as the implications of the historical context of the test's administration.

maverick_starstrider
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If we define Landau's Theoretical Minimum (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lev_Landau#The_Landau_School) as roughly understanding ALL of the entire course of theoretical physics by Landau and Lifgarbagez, who thinks they would make the minimum? I know I sure as hell wouldn't. That requirement is insane.
 
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I bought the book collection, so I know I would fail the exam too. On the other hand, the books are old and much more is available today depending on your domain. Besides, I still think it's quite possible to pass the exam, provided one works only this content and nothing else.

Whenever I start research on a domain which is new to me, I consider reading the relevant chapters in this collection a must.
 
Between 1934 and 1961, only 43 people passed this test.
 
That wouldn't be surprising if they were taught by Landau. His books are awesome...but only as a review if you know the material well.
 
Pinu7 said:
but only as a review if you know the material well.
I think the books are meant to be self contained and introductory. There is no pre-requirement at all, except possibly previous books in the same collection.
 
Can people find out all names which passed Landau's test. I heard that one or two people came and find mistake in Landau's papers and Immediately passed the test. Is it true?
 
Old post but anyways here is the list : http://www.dsm.fordham.edu/~maron/wagers/landau.html
 

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