Finding the Right Physics Books for College for Students

In summary, selecting the right physics books for college involves considering factors such as the course syllabus, the level of difficulty, and personal learning preferences. Students should look for textbooks that offer clear explanations, worked examples, and supplementary resources such as problem sets and online materials. Recommendations from professors and peers, as well as reviews, can help in making informed choices. Additionally, exploring various formats, including digital versions and study guides, can enhance understanding and retention of complex concepts.
  • #1
wolly
49
2
Hi,I m studying for college and I need to receive some info from you guys. Which books should I use to study mechanics,thermodynamics,electricity and magnetism?
I have no idea what books I should study because my own physics teacher has some pdfs in her USB and I can t borrow the USB because that would be cheating.
I would like to learn from books with animated drawings!
 
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  • #2
What text does your instructor recommend?
 
  • #3
wolly said:
I would like to learn from books with animated drawings!
On-line videos may have animated drawings, but text books certainly will not.

Oh, and I do not recommend on-line videos. If you are serious about physics, use an actual text book.
 
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  • #4
Vanadium 50 said:
What text does your instructor recommend?
She didn t recommend me anything!

[Mentor Note: post edited to remove an inappropriate comment]
 
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  • #5
phinds said:
On-line videos may have animated drawings, but text books certainly will not.

Oh, and I do not recommend on-line videos. If you are serious about physics, use an actual text book.
In a book which I downloaded they showed me something with drawings. I don t remember the book but I remember there were some formulas explained!
 
  • #6
wolly said:
In a book which I downloaded they showed me something with drawings. I don t remember the book but I remember there were some formulas explained!
I don't understand what this has to do with animated videos.
 
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  • #7
wolly said:
In a book which I downloaded they showed me something with drawings. I don t remember the book but I remember there were some formulas explained!

You’ve described almost every text book ever. I’m starting to think this is a troll thread.
 
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  • #8
Alright if you’re looking for a general textbook that covers an introductory broad range of topics. Young and Friedman University Physics.
 
  • #9
wolly said:
She didn t recommend me anything!

[Mentor Note: post edited to remove an inappropriate comment]
Right back atcha!

But let me see if I understand. You asked "What textbook should I use?" and she was completely silent? That's.....highly unusual.
 
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  • #10
wolly said:
my own physics teacher has some pdfs in her USB and I can t borrow the USB because that would be cheating.
What do you mean by "USB"? The usual expansion of this acronym is Universal Serial Bus. Do you mean USB drive AKA "thumb drive" or "zip drive" etc.?
 
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  • #11
Mark44 said:
What do you mean by "USB"? The usual expansion of this acronym is Universal Serial Bus. Do you mean USB drive AKA "thumb drive" or "zip drive" etc.?
Yes an USB drive. She won t let me borrow it and she told me that I can find some of the courses online and that was the reason why I had to use piracy. I m sorry if I bothered you but my teacher is very selfish!
There is a campus on my University but the courses are just a bunch of formulas with no explication!
 
  • #12
Vanadium 50 said:
Right back atcha!

But let me see if I understand. You asked "What textbook should I use?" and she was completely silent? That's.....highly unusual.
Well she won t listen to me and she told me that if I try to receive help from her courses I would be expelled from the University and I won t be able to graduate!
 
  • #13
I'll be completely honest,the physics courses belong to some pdfs which the teacher owns.There are no books in this course. I tried to negociate with her to send me some courses but she refused me!
 
  • #14
wolly said:
Yes an USB drive. She won t let me borrow it and she told me that I can find some of the courses online and that was the reason why I had to use piracy.
Maybe she has good reasons for not letting you borrow her USB drive, such as that it might have exams and solutions as well as personal information. She has given you an alternate source -- the online courses.
wolly said:
I m sorry if I bothered you but my teacher is very selfish!
Like I said, maybe there are legitimate reasons for her to not lend the USB drive to you.
wolly said:
There is a campus on my University but the courses are just a bunch of formulas with no explication!
I find that very hard to believe.
 
  • #15
wolly said:
she told me that if I try to receive help from her courses I would be expelled from the University and I won t be able to graduate!
Do you mean like posting on PF?
 
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  • #16
wolly said:
Well she won t listen to me and she told me that if I try to receive help from her courses I would be expelled from the University

berkeman said:
Do you mean like posting on PF?

Good golly, @wolly.

I think we shouldn't risk that.
 
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  • #17
Can't go wrong with an old edition of University Physics by Young and Freedman.
 
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  • #18
Here are some standard texts:

University Physics by Young and Freedman
Fundamentals/principles of Physics by Halliday Resnick Walker
Physics by Halliday Resnick Krane
Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Serway and Jewett

Most of these should be available for cheap in international editions
 
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  • #19
We don't know if this is calculus-based, algebra-based or conceptual, so we may be recommending the wrong books. Also, because the teacher is allegedly playing "I've got a a secret" we cannot suggest a book that is a good complement or addition.
 
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  • #20
Vanadium 50 said:
We don't know if this is calculus-based, algebra-based or conceptual, so we may be recommending the wrong books. Also, because the teacher is allegedly playing "I've got a a secret" we cannot suggest a book that is a good complement or addition.

Yeah this whole situation is very weird. Personally I wouldn’t consider it cheating to ask for a book recommendation on PF but if the Prof does…..

If the OP isn’t scheming (or trolling) I wish them the best.

But my head hurts trying to make sense of any of this……I’m gonna bow out.
 
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FAQ: Finding the Right Physics Books for College for Students

What are the best introductory physics textbooks for college students?

Some of the best introductory physics textbooks include "University Physics with Modern Physics" by Young and Freedman, "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker, and "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway and Jewett. These books cover a wide range of fundamental topics and are well-regarded for their clarity and comprehensiveness.

Should I buy a new or used physics textbook?

Buying a used textbook can be a cost-effective option, especially for introductory courses. However, ensure that you are purchasing the correct edition required by your course, as newer editions may contain updated information or problem sets. If the course heavily relies on the latest edition, it might be worth investing in a new copy.

Are there any good online resources to supplement my physics textbook?

Yes, there are several excellent online resources to supplement your physics textbook. Websites like Khan Academy, MIT OpenCourseWare, and HyperPhysics offer free tutorials, lectures, and interactive simulations that can help reinforce your understanding of physics concepts.

How can I determine which physics textbook is right for my course?

The best way to determine the right textbook for your course is to consult your course syllabus or ask your professor directly. Professors often have preferred textbooks that align well with their teaching style and course structure. Additionally, reading reviews and comparing the table of contents of different books can help you make an informed decision.

Are there any physics textbooks specifically recommended for engineering students?

Yes, some physics textbooks are particularly well-suited for engineering students. "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway and Jewett, and "Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics" by J.L. Meriam and L.G. Kraige are highly recommended. These books often include applied examples and problem sets that are relevant to engineering disciplines.

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