Electrodynamics

About the course

Content
The aim of the course is to convey in-depth knowledge of electromagnetism. The course starts with a brief rehearsal of the electromagnetism in the static and stationary cases and then the electromagnetic induction is treated with Faraday's law. Maxwell's equations are then studied in the general time-dependent case. Starting from them, the continuity equation and Poynting's theorem, are derived, and their interpretation in terms of charge and energy conservation is discussed. Thereafter, electromagnetic waves are treated in vacuum and in matter, with applications to e.g. electromagnetic waves in waveguides. The course concludes with an introduction to radiation theory, where dipole radiation is treated. In connection with this, the retarded potentials, that are used to determine dipole radiation, are introduced. Electromagnetic problems are modelled and solved using the software Comsol Multiphysics within the laboratory part of the course. The course comprises a theory part of 5 credits and a computer laboratory part of 1 credits.

Expected study results
To fulfil the goals of knowledge and understanding, the student should be able to:

• explain basic electromagnetic theory in terms of Maxwell's equations and conservation laws in terms of Poynting's theorem
• describe basic electromagnetic phenomena such as induction and displacement current
• explain the basic properties of electromagnetic waves in vacuum, in matter and in waveguides.

In order to fulfil the goals for proficiency and ability, the student should be able to:

• solve electromagnetic problems in central areas such as induction, wave propagation and radiation
• solve Maxwell's equations with different boundary conditions
• use the concepts of electromagnetic potentials and retarded potentials to analyse electromagnetic problems
• use the software Comsol Multiphysics to solve electromagnetic problems numerically.

In order to fulfil the goals for values and critical approach, the student should be able to:

• show ability to make judgements with regard to scientific and ethical aspects when presenting results in laboratory work.

Forms of instruction
The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, problem solving sessions, and supervision in computer labs. The labs are compulsory.

Examination
The examination for the course's theoretical part takes place individually in the form of a written exam at the end of the course. For the written examination one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Merit (4), or Pass with Distinction (5) is set. The examination of the course's laboratory parts is done individually through written reports and oral presentations. For the written reports and oral presentations one of the grades Fail (U) or Pass (G) is set.

For the entire course, one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Merit (4), or Pass with Distinction (5) is set. To fully pass the course, all parts must be passed. Provided that all passed are passed, the grade on the entire course will be the same as on the theoretical part. Those who have passed an exam can not do another exam in order to get higher grades.

Literature
Griffiths David J.q (David Jeffery)
Introduction to Electrodynamics
3rd ed. : Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Prentice Hall: cop. 1999: 576 p .:
ISBN: 0-13-805326-X