Book for the application of Calculus in Physics?

In summary, the person is looking for a basic textbook that explains the applications of calculus in physics. They have a basic understanding of calculus and are looking for a book that relates these concepts to physics at a basic level, including applications of vector calculus. They are also open to exploring mathematical methods for physics, but note that these are usually meant for graduate coursework and may be too advanced for their current level of understanding.
  • #1
Ashu2912
107
1
Book for the application of Calculus in Physics?

Hi! I'm just a beginner to the world of Physics. I require some good basic textbook which solely explains the applications of calculus in physics. I am acquainted to an extent to the mathematical domain of calculus, i.e. integration, differentiation, limits, differential equations.etc. I need the text to relate these to the concepts of Physics that we study, right from the basic level. It would be great if the book would also have some applications of the calculus of vectors in Physics. Thanks!
NOTE : Please move my thread to an appropriate forum...
 
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  • #2


Almost any calculus-based physics textbooks make the applications of calculus very obvious. Perhaps you should pick one up and see for yourself.
 
  • #3


Yeah pretty much you should look at the physics textbooks themselves. They should have a short talk about some of the basic mathematical techniques and then the rest of the book will be pretty much your sought after applications. For example, Griffiths' electrodynamics text starts out by summarizing the basics of vector calculus and then he jumps into the physics of electrodynamics (which makes vast use of vector calculus).

There is a set of classes and texts known as mathematical methods for physics (I have also seen a similar class for engineering too). However, these may be unsuitable, despite the relevance of their title and content, because these usually are meant for graduate coursework. So the content assumes someone with an advanced knowledge of math and physics but the texts focus on various mathematical techniques that often come up in physics.
 

Related to Book for the application of Calculus in Physics?

1. How is Calculus used in Physics?

Calculus is used in Physics to model and analyze various physical phenomena. It helps in understanding the concept of change and how different variables are related to each other, such as velocity, acceleration, and position. Calculus is also used to calculate the area under a curve, which is essential in determining quantities such as work, energy, and electric charge.

2. What are some real-life examples of Calculus in Physics?

There are numerous real-life examples of Calculus in Physics, such as calculating the trajectory of a projectile, determining the rate of change of temperature in a cooling object, and analyzing the fluid flow in a pipe. Calculus is also used in the study of electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics.

3. How does Calculus help in solving problems in Physics?

Calculus provides a powerful tool for solving problems in Physics by allowing us to model physical systems and analyze their behavior. By using Calculus, we can determine the maximum and minimum values of a function, find the slope of a curve at a specific point, and calculate the area under a curve. These techniques are crucial in solving complex problems in Physics.

4. Is it necessary to know Calculus to study Physics?

While it is not necessary to have a deep understanding of Calculus to study Physics, it is highly beneficial. Many concepts in Physics, such as motion, forces, and energy, can be better understood and explained using Calculus. Moreover, many advanced topics in Physics, such as relativity and quantum mechanics, heavily rely on Calculus techniques.

5. What are some useful resources for learning about the application of Calculus in Physics?

There are various resources available for learning about the application of Calculus in Physics, including textbooks, online courses, and video lectures. Some recommended resources are "Calculus for Scientists and Engineers" by William Briggs and Lyle Cochran, "Calculus for Physics" by Paul D. McNicholas, and the "Calculus for Physics" series by Khan Academy on YouTube.

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