Electrodynamics

Introduction to basic concepts and mathematical tools of electrodynamics, in particular electromagnetic waves and Maxwell equations.

We first discuss microscopic electromagnetic fields in vacuum, and then apply them to macroscopic phenomena in matter.

- Electromagnetic force, Maxwell equations and charge conservation (differential/integration forms, symmetries)

- Characteristic phenomena (static electromagnetism, electromagnetic induction, displacement current)

- Energy and momentum of electromagnetic fields (Poynting vector, Maxwell tensor)

- Potential formulation (gauge uncertainty, causality, Lienard-Wiechert potential)

- Electromagnetic waves and radiation (plane/spherical wave, metallic wave guide, Larmor formula)

- Relativity (Lorentz transformation, covariant formulation)

- Electrodynamics in matter (polarization/magnetization, refraction index, reflection and transmission of electromagnetic waves)

Main lecture and tutorial are complementary, in the sense that their stress is sometimes different: lecture discusses Maxwell theory and its connection to simple phenomena, while tutorial discusses practical electrodynamic phenomena. Students are highly encouraged to attend both.

- D. J. Griffiths "Introduction to electrodynamics"

- J. D. Jackson "Classical electrodynamics"

Students will be able to apply Maxwell equations to characteristic electromagnetic phenomena in vacuum and also in matter.

Students will be able to explain an interplay between electric and magnetic fields, in particular, for different observers.

There will be two written midterm, final written and oral exams. The midterms are based on tutorials, the final written is based on half lecture and half tutorial, and the oral exam is based on lecture. The final mark is based on the total score.