6 Best Books on Physics About Light

There are a lot of books on physics about light out there today, but we’ve picked out the best six for readers of all levels.

Whether you’re completely new to the science of light or you already know every type of light in the electromagnetic spectrum, there’s a book on this list for you. Our picks include approachable introductions to physics as well as more technical books on topics like optics and electrodynamics. 

1. Light: The Visible Spectrum and Beyond by Megan Watzke and Kimberly Arcand

One of the best books on physics about light for general reading is Light: The Visible Spectrum and Beyond by Megan Watzke and Kimberly Arcand. This book offers a scientific but approachable introduction to the science of light. It includes hundreds of sharp, colorful photos to enhance your reading experience, as well. 

Light is a good book for readers who are looking for a simple overview of this topic. It covers the basics concepts of the electromagnetic spectrum and where visible light falls on that range. However, it doesn’t get into more complex topics like the mathematics of optics. Readers will get a broad and enlightening overview of all the different types of radiation, including visible light. 

This book is good for readers in middle school or above and also makes a good gift for science fans of any age. 

2. Introduction to Light by Gary Waldman

For a technical introduction to the science of light, check out Introduction to Light by Gary Waldman. This is one of the best books on physics about light for beginners with some advanced background knowledge. It covers foundational technical concepts without getting into the complex mathematics behind them too much. 

Introduction to Light is a great book for high school students, undergraduate physics students, or anyone interested in gaining a technical understanding of the physics of light. Each chapter includes questions for independent study, which makes it a great self-teaching tool. Waldman covers topics like the history of studying light, modern theories of light, optics, lasers, vision, color and lenses. 

3. Light, Dark, and the Electromagnetic Spectrum by Scott Benjamin Gracie

For a lengthier college-level look at the science of the electromagnetic spectrum, take a look at Light, Dark, and the Electromagnetic Spectrum by Scott Benjamin Gracie. This book goes into detail about the different ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum, including the visible range. It also explores different types of illumination and the history of scientific studies in light. 

The flow of this book walks readers through foundational concepts then applies them to more complex topics. For instance, readers learn about different interactions between light and objects in chapter two, which gets applied in later chapters on vision and biological interactions with light. Interestingly, the author even covers technical lighting topics, such as stage lighting and artificial light. 

4. Introduction to Modern Optics by Grant R. Fowles

Optics is the physics of light and how it interacts with different types of matter. It’s the science behind many everyday technologies, such as glasses or cameras. One of the best books on physics about light specifically focusing on this field is Introduction to Modern Optics by Grant R. Fowles. 

This book is a great starting point for anyone interested in optics. It will be helpful to have a basic understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum and modern theories of light. However, this book is approachable and good for self-teaching or everyday reading. 

Fowles covers topics like the movement of light, coherence, interference, diffraction, lasers, ray optics, the quantum theory of light and more. Introduction to Optics is ideal for readers with some existing background knowledge in physics. For those ready for this intermediate level of science reading, this book is a well-rounded general introduction to the exciting world of optics. 

5. Relativity by Albert Einstein

Einstein’s theories of relativity are fundamental to modern science, so Relativity is essential reading for anyone interested in physics. While Einstein’s Relativity mainly focuses on concepts like gravity, motion and time, light does play a central role in the theories of relativity. 

Relativity is a short book and more approachable than many people might expect. Einstein wrote it with everyday people in mind, making his advanced scientific concepts easily accessible. In fact, the entire book is part of the public domain in the U.S. so anyone in the United States can read it for free online through Google Books. 

The speed of light is at the heart of Einstein’s theories of relativity. Anyone interested in books on physics about light and its role in the universe will find Relativity both informative and awe-inspiring. 

6. Introduction to Electrodynamics by David J. Griffiths

Griffiths’ Introduction to Electrodynamics is one of the most widely read physics textbooks in the world today. This book covers advanced concepts related to the electromagnetic spectrum and how electric and magnetic fields interact. It is one of the best books on physics about light and electromagnetism, but it is not ideal for beginners. 

Introduction to Electrodynamics is best suited for readers with a strong grasp of basic physics. Many people read this book in second or third year undergraduate physics courses. You don’t need to be in college to enjoy it, though. Griffiths covers a highly technical topic in a detailed, yet accessible way. Plus, since so many people have read this book, it’s easy to get help online with any of the concepts or math. 

Reading the Best Books on Physics About Light

These top six books on physics about light and the electromagnetic spectrum are just a few of the great books available on this topic. We chose these specific titles to include books for every type of reader who might be interested in the science of light. 

Hopefully these introductory books will pique your interest and invite you into the exciting world of physics! If you’re looking for more great reads, take a look at our guide to books on the science of force next.