Problems in Physics by A.A. Pinsky
By 
Problems in Phsyics by A.A. Pinsky was published by MIR publishers (Russia) in 1980. The books contains 762 physics problems. These problems supplement Fundamentals of Physics co-authored by A.A. Pinsky. The problems in the book are of a wide range - they range from ones that need elementary skills in differentiating and integrating to ones that use numerical methods. These problems are aimed to develop skills in the creative application of the theory. Most of the problems are provided with hints and answers. The book is not recommended as primary book for IIT-JEE as many problems (e.g., problems involving numerical methods) are beyond JEE syllabus.
You can read eBook or download pdf (archive.org, 43 MB). Indian edition of AA Pinsky is avalable on Amazon.
Key Features
Problems in Physics by AA Pinsky has 762 problems in eight chapters. The problems are arranged in the same order as the textbook "Fundamentals of Physics" co-authored by AA Pinsky. The topics and numbers of problem in each topic are
- Motion and Forces - 81 problems
- Conservation Laws - 115 problems
- Molecular-kinetic Theory of Gases - 76 problems
- Molecular Forces and States of Aggregation of Matter - 45 problems
- Electrodynamics - 150 problems
- Vibrations and Waves - 178 problems
- Fundamentals of Quantum Physics - 84 problems
- Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics - 33 problems
The book starts by giving practical hints to solve problems. The book recommends that before you attempt to solve the problems, study the corresponding chapters of the Fundamentals of Physics. Bear in mind that the most frequent reason that you cannot solve the problem is that your knowledge of the theory is not profound enough or is too formal.
After you have obtained the correct answer it is a good idea to look at the solution offered in the book. If the solution is different, try to find out which is the best. It will be great if your solution is simpler, shorter and more elegant than that of the author.
When you are unable to solve the problems, don’t hurry to see the solution. Make a new study to the respective theoretical material, paying attention to the finer points. Experience shows that a repeated study of the theory with a definite goal in mind is very effective and ensures a quick success when a second crack at the problem is attempted.
One weakness of the book is lack of detailed solutions. The answers and hints are given to most of the problems but detailed explanation is missing. It might be a deterrent for students who are beginning to learn the concepts and theories of the subject.
Summary
This is classical book of physics with problems ranging from simple level and going up to a very tough level. You should handle this kind of book carefully and not get stuck in solving each and every problem. It is a good book to have but only if handled correctly. Also, some topics are not in the syllabus for JEE, so one should be careful before picking up a topic and keep referring back to the syllabus every time you have a doubt.
