Admission requirements
AN1(na), AN2(na), LA1(na), LA2(na), CED
Description
A course on relativistic electrodynamics, that will take you into the exciting interplay between Maxwell's theory of electromagnetism and special relativity, making you appreciate the roles of Lorentz symmetry and gauge invariance. Starting from the principle of relativity, and the consequent theory of special relativity, we discuss the relativistic description of electromagnetism and related transformations, eventually reformulating electrodynamics in its tensorial formulation.
Topics:
Special Theory of Relativity
Lorentz Transformations and spacetime formulation
Relativistic Mechanics
Transformation of the electromagnetic field
Tensorial formulation of electrodynamics
Relativistic Potentials and gauge freedom
Radiation of relativistic electrons
Course objectives
After completion of this course, you are able to:
Solve special relativity problems that include time dilation, length contraction and the relativity of simultaneity
Lorentz transform between inertial reference frames
Solve problems of relativistic mechanics
Handle covariant formulation of Maxwell's equations
Lorentz transform the electromagnetic field tensor, current density 4-vector and potential 4-vector
Solve for the relativistic motion of charges in electromagnetic fields
Solve for the electromagnetic field and potentials generated by a charge in motion
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
Lectures and exercise classes.
For more information see Brightspace
Assesment method
Written exam (closed book) 100%
Resit, review & feedback
Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical assignments.
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.
Reading list
Introduction to Electrodynamics D.J.Griffiths, Prentice Hall, third edition, 1999, ISBN 0-13-481367-7
Different editions permitted. Additional reading material provided during the course.
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).
Remarks
Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.