Classical Fields
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| PHYS2003 | Physics and Astronomy | 2 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- PHYS2003
- School
- Physics and Astronomy
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
In the module "From Newton to Einstein", you learnt about the idea of a field: a quantity which is defined at every point in space. In this module, the description of fields will be extended by introducing the mathematics of vector calculus. The module will begin with an introduction to vector calculus, illustrated in the context of the flow of ideal (non-viscous) fluids. The mathÂematics will then be used to provide a framework for describing, understanding and using the laws of electromagnetism. We discuss how electric and magnetic fields are related to each other and to electrical charges and electrical currents. The macroscopic description of electric fields inside dielectric materials and magnetic fields inside magnetizable materials will be described, including the boundary conditions that apply at material interfaces. The last section of the module will discuss Maxwell's equations of electrodynamics and how they lead to the vector wave equation for electromagnetic waves.
The module contains a number of topics:
- Introduction to Fields
- Vector calculus
- Fluid flow
- Dielectrics and Electrostatics
- Magnetostatics
- Electrodynamics
Target Students
Students on Year 2 of Physics or Chemistry and Molecular Physics or Natural Sciences degree programmes.
Classes
This module is based on a series of lectures supplemented by problem classes in certain weeks.
Assessment
- 20% Coursework 1: Continuous Assessment
- 80% Exam 1 (3-hour)
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To introduce students to the mathematical description of scalar and vector fields and to apply this to the theory of electromagnetism.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
On successful completion of the module, students will have enhanced their:
- A1 knowledge of most fundamental physical laws, principles and techniques
- A3 understanding of how the basic principles of physics are applied in a range of situations
- A4 knowledge of the primary mathematical methods for the analysis of physical problems
Intellectual Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- B1 apply theoretical ideas to the quantitative analysis of physical situations
- B3 apply techniques of problem solving
Professional/Practical Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- C1 formulate problems in physics using appropriate mathematical language
Transferable/Key Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- D1 develop appropriate strategies for study, including the use of library, human, and electronic sources of information