Reddit reviews Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach, Standard Edition (Chs. 1-36) (3rd Edition)
We found 3 Reddit comments about Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach, Standard Edition (Chs. 1-36) (3rd Edition). Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
Used Book in Good Condition
We're not even sure the constants are constant. It's entirely possible they do change in some complicated relationship on levels too large, too small, too fast or too slow for us to notice 'easily'. I know that dodges your question, but it's one hell of a question and answering it directly would be a marked step forward in our understanding of the universe.
Like chip said, the math is just a 'best fit' solution to the events we observe. If you've got the free time you could crack open this book and try moving things around and see what your new maths describe.
I hadn't even passed algebra when I graduated high school though so if you're in the same boat I was in then this book (specifically the later chapters) might give you a better perspective.
This is what I've been using for classic mechanics and E&M
http://www.amazon.com/Physics-Scientists-Engineers-Strategic-Approach/dp/0321752945
Great book
You're going to get a lot of answers based on preference.
You could start with standard high school texts or introductory college texts but not all of them are very good at illustrating the significance of what they are teaching by themselves. For absolute beginners you might choose a book that starts with an introduction to science then approaches physics as the most fundamental science.
I don't know how much education you've had or what your goals are but here is a list of starting materials that is by no means comprehensive: