PHY204 - Classical Electrodynamics (2023-2024)

Classical electrodynamics is an important pillar of physics given that it led to numerous scientific and technological developments since the 19th century. PHY 204 aims to provide students with an introduction to the principles and behaviors of dynamical electric and magnetic systems, and a theoretical foundation in classical field theory. It builds upon the knowledge acquired in PHY104 and begins with reminders in electrostatics and magnetostatics, before moving on to a more formal presentation of Maxwell’s equations in magnetic and dielectric media including local and integral forms, conservation laws, potential formulations and Gauge transformations. Applications of the electromagnetic theory such as free or guided propagation, optical phenomena or the emission of radiation by moving charges are presented as key concepts illustrating the development of modern technology. The course concludes with an introduction to relativistic electrodynamics and its covariant formulation.

 Upon completion of this course, students will master the fundamental principles in classical electrodynamics. They will be able to understand the origin of Maxwell's equations in magnetic and dielectric media and their essential consequences. Besides deriving and solving simple models illustrating the main concepts, they will also be able to understand the physical principles governing everyday life and modern technological systems, from wave propagation phenomena to optical fibers, to antennas and electrical engines.

Topics covered in this course include: electrostatics, potential problems in 3D, boundary value problems, Poisson’s equation, multipole expansion; conservation laws; dia-para-ferro-magnetism, induction laws; field energy; displacement current; solution to Maxwell’s equations in vacuum, superconductivity (London theory); plane electromagnetic waves; waveguides and resonators; radiating systems; special theory of relativity; relativistic kinematics; Lorentz transforms of Fields; 4 vectors, covariant formulation of electromagnetism; radiation by moving charges; synchrotron radiation; Cherenkov radiation.