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Comprehensive Classical Physics Applications Explored in New Textbook

Comprehensive overview of classical physics topics and chapters

From Hacker News Original Article Hacker News Discussion

A comprehensive manuscript titled "Applications of Classical Physics" by Blandford and Thorne covers a wide range of classical physics topics, eventually published as "Modern Classical Physics." It offers graduate-level depth on subjects from Newtonian mechanics to cosmology, including relativity and plasma physics.

Why it matters: The text provides an in-depth, rigorous resource for advanced classical physics education rarely found at the graduate level.

The big picture: It bridges traditional classical physics with modern concepts like relativity and plasma, showing continuity in physics education.

The other side: Some readers note the inclusion of relativity blurs lines between classical and modern physics; others question its pedagogical style on basic topics.

Commenters say: Many praise the text’s depth and breadth, lament the dilution of physics education, and appreciate the nostalgic reference to classic educational series like Mechanical Universe.