- UCAS course code
- F3FA
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course unit details:
Electrodynamics (M)
Unit code | PHYS30441 |
---|---|
Credit rating | 10 |
Unit level | Level 3 |
Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
Offered by | Department of Physics & Astronomy |
Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
Electrodynamics (M)
Pre/co-requisites
Unit title | Unit code | Requirement type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Electromagnetism | PHYS20141 | Pre-Requisite | Compulsory |
Lagrangian Dynamics | PHYS20401 | Pre-Requisite | Recommended |
Aims
To cover theoretical aspects of electromagnetic fields and radiation.
Learning outcomes
This course unit detail provides the framework for delivery in 20/21 and may be subject to change due to any additional Covid-19 impact. Please see Blackboard / course unit related emails for any further updates
On completion successful students will be able to
- use scalar and vector potentials and explain the concept of gauge invariance;
- demonstrate the compatibility of electrodynamics and special relativity;
- use Lorentz covariant formalism (scarlars, 4-vectors and tenors) in the context of electrodynamics and special relativity;
- solve Poisson's equation and the inhomogenous wave equation;
- distinguish between radiation fields and other electromagnetic fields;
- calculate the radiated power produced by accelerating charges.
Syllabus
1. Electromagnetic Field Equations (7 lectures)
Maxwell's equations and wave solutions. Definition of scalar and vector potentials. Electro- and magnetostatics and Poisson’s equation; multipole expansions. Electrodynamics in Lorentz Gauge; the inhomogeneous wave equation and the retarded time.
2. Electromagnetism and Relativity (7 lectures)
Covariant and contravariant formalism of Lorentz transformations; Scalars, four vectors and tensors; relativistic dynamics. Consistency of Maxwell's equations and relativity. Electromagnetic field tensor and electrodynamics in covariant form.
3. Accelerating Charges (6 lectures)
Lienard-Wiechert potentials; Power radiated from an arbitrarily moving charge. Larmor’s power formula; synchrotron radiation; bremsstrahlung.
4. Harmonically Varying Sources (2 lectures)
Multipole radiation: electric (Hertzian) and magnetic dipole radiation; slow-down of pulsars. Rayleigh and Thomson scattering.
Assessment methods
Method | Weight |
---|---|
Other | 33% |
Written exam | 67% |
Feedback methods
Feedback will be offered by examples class tutors based on examples sheets, and model answers will be issued. A few optional sessions will provide extra problem solving opportunities and cover a few interesting “extra-curricular” topics.
Recommended reading
Recommended texts:
Heald, M.A. & Marion, J.B. Classical Electromagnetic Radiation, (Academic Press,
London 1995)
Griffiths, D.J., Introduction to Electrodynamics (Benjamin Cummings; 3rd edition (December 30, 1998)
Supplementary reading:
Jackson, J.D., Classical Electrodynamics, (John Wiley & Sons, 3rd edition 1999)
Schwartz, M., Principles of Electrodynamics, (Dover Publications, 1972)
Feynman, The Feynman Lectures on Physics, Vol II (Addison Wesley, 1964)
Study hours
Scheduled activity hours | |
---|---|
Assessment written exam | 1.5 |
Lectures | 22 |
Independent study hours | |
---|---|
Independent study | 76.5 |
Teaching staff
Staff member | Role |
---|---|
Terence Wyatt | Unit coordinator |