Aims

The aim of the module is to present the classical theory of the electromagnetic field in the vacuum

Learning objectives

At the end of the module you should be able to

• to understand Maxwell's equations; to solve simple problems involving static charges, steady currents and electromagnetic waves; and to understand the relativistic formulation of electromagnetism

Syllabus

• Revision of vector calculus
• Electric and magnetic phenomena
• Maxwell's equations and some of their implications
• Solutions of Maxwell's equations: static charges, steady currents, electromagnetic waves
• Relativistic electromagnetism

Recommended texts

• listed in lecturer's handouts.

Teaching

• Spring Term
• 2 lectures per week
• 1 problems class per week.

Assessment

One and a half hour closed examination towards the end of Summer Term (90%),
Coursework (10%). Note that coursework submitted after the advertised deadlines will be given a mark of zero.

Elective information

See above.

Please check prerequisites carefully before asking to take this module as an elective. In choosing this module as an elective it will be assumed that you are familiar with all the material taught in the first year courses Calculus and Core Algebra, or are willing to learn the material if necessary.

Prerequisites

• ODEs, PDEs, the wave equation Taught in: Introduction to Differential Equations and Fourier Series
• all, especially 4-vector notation Taught in: Special Relativity 
• all Taught in: Vector Calculus II