FYSS7420 Advanced Electrodynamics (10 cr)

Study level:
Advanced studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English
Responsible organisation:
Department of Physics
Curriculum periods:
2024-2025, 2025-2026, 2026-2027, 2027-2028

Description

  • Lorentz transformations and relativistic mechanics

  • Electromagnetic field tensor

  • Lorentz force in relativistic form

  • Maxwell equations in tensor and differential form notation

  • Tensor calculus

  • Radiation from accerated charges: Lienart-Wiechert potentials

  • Energy-momentum tensor of the electromagnetic field

  • Radiation reaction

  • Langragian form of the electromagnetic field coupled to charged particles 

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to

  • Use Lorentz transformations to describe relativistic dynamics

  • Apply Lorentz transformations to electromagnetic field variables

  • Use tensor calculus in general coordinates

  • Write the Maxwell equations in a relativistic invariant notation

  • Explain the basic concepts underlying the electromagnetic energy-momentum tensor

  • Write Maxwell theory in the language of differential forms

  • Calculate the radiation from accelerated charges using Lienart-Wiechert potentials

  • Describe the concept of radiation reaction

  • Explain the Lagrangian form for charged particles coupled to electromagnetic fields

  • Able to write a report on a topic related to advanced electrodynamics 

Description of prerequisites

Good knowledge of electromagnetism 

Study materials

Lecture notes and background articles. 

Completion methods

Method 1

Description:
Given every two years.
Evaluation criteria:
Grade is based on exercises and project report (e.g. exercises 50 % and report 50 %).
Time of teaching:
Period 3, Period 4
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Participation in teaching (10 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Evaluation criteria:
<p>Grade is based on exercises and project report (e.g. exercises 50 % and report 50 %).</p>
Language:
English
Study methods:
Lectures, exercises, small project and reporting. 

Teaching