Physics and astronomy

Electrodynamics

Module code: F3204
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Class, Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework, Unseen examination

This is a first module on electro/magnetostatics and electrodynamics in differential form with key applications.

Topics covered include:

  1. Mathematical Revision
  2. Electrostatics: equations for the E-field, potential, energy, basic boundary-value setups
  3. Electrostatics: dielectrics, displacement and free charge
  4. Magnetostatics: forces, equations for the B-field, vector potential, Biot-Savart, dipole field of current loops
  5. Magnetostatics: diamagnetism and paramagnetism, auxiliary field H, ferromagnetism
  6. Electrodynamics: Faraday's law, inductance and back emf, circuit applications, Maxwell-Ampere law, energy and Poynting's theorem
  7. Electromagnetic waves: wave equation, plane waves, polarization, waves in dielectrics, reflection at an interface, wave velocity/group velocity/dispersion
  8. Potentials and dipole radiation

Pre-requisite

Pre-requisites:
Level 4: (F3201) Maths Methods 1 [T1]
Level 4: (F3210) Classical Mechanics [T1]
Level 4: (F3240) Classical Physics [T2]
Level 4: (F3202) Maths Methods 2 [T2]

Co-requisites:
Level 5: (F3205) Maths Methods 3 [T1]

Module learning outcomes

  • State and explain the physical content of Maxwell's equations.
  • Solve standard electro/magnetostatics problems.
  • Apply EM theory to simple situations involving induction and inductance.
  • Solve simple EM wave problems.