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402-0204-00L 7 Credits BSC D-PHYS , D-MATH
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Electrodynamics

Elektrodynamik

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Johannes Brödel
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:06:49

Abstract

Derivation and discussion of Maxwell's equations, from the static limit to the full dynamical case. Wave equation, waveguides, cavities. Generation of electromagnetic radiation, scattering and diffraction of light. Structure of Maxwell's equations, relativity theory and covariance, Lagrangian formulation. Dynamics of relativistic particles in the presence of fields and radiation properties.

Objective

Develop a physical understanding for static and dynamic phenomena related to (moving) charged objects and understand the structure of the classical field theory of electrodynamics (transverse versus longitudinal physics, invariances (Lorentz-, gauge-)). Appreciate the interrelation between electric, magnetic, and optical phenomena and the influence of media. Understand a set of classic electrodynamical phenomena and develop the ability to solve simple problems independently. Apply previously learned mathematical concepts (vector analysis, complete systems of functions, Green's functions, co- and contravariant coordinates, etc.). Prepare for quantum mechanics (eigenvalue problems, wave guides and cavities).

Content

Classical field theory of electrodynamics: Derivation and discussion of Maxwell equations, starting from the static limit (electrostatics, magnetostatics, boundary value problems) in the vacuum and in media and subsequent generalization to the full dynamical case (Faraday's law, Ampere/Maxwell law; potentials and gauge invariance). Wave equation and solutions in full space, half-space (Snell's law), waveguides, cavities, generation of electromagnetic radiation, scattering and diffraction of light (optics). Application to various specific examples. Discussion of the structure of Maxwell's equations, Lorentz invariance, relativity theory and covariance, Lagrangian formulation. Dynamics of relativistic particles in the presence of fields and their radiation properties (synchrotron).

Resources

Literature

J.D. Jackson, Classical Electrodynamics W.K.H Panovsky and M. Phillis, Classical electricity and magnetism L.D. Landau, E.M. Lifshitz, and L.P. Pitaevskii, Electrodynamics of continuus media A. Sommerfeld, Electrodynamics / Optics (Lectures on Theoretical Physics) M. Born and E. Wolf, Principles of optics R. Feynman, R. Leighton, and M. Sands, The Feynman Lectures of Physics, Vol II W. Nolting, Elektrodynamik (Grundkurs Theoretische Physik 3)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
ein beidseitig handbeschriebenes A4-Blatt als Formelsammlung
Prüfungsfragen dürfen auf Englisch beantwortet werden / Examination questions may be answered in English

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Elektrodynamik
  • Wed 09:45-11:30 (HIL E 4)
  • Fri 09:45-11:30 (HPV G 4)
  • 01.06 Date 09:45-11:30 (HPH G 3)
4 h weekly
exercise Elektrodynamik
Übungsgruppen werden in deutscher und/oder englischer Sprache angeboten.
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT F 31.2)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT H 42)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT J 51)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT J 52)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT J 53)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT K 51)
  • Wed 11:45-13:30 (HIT K 52)
  • Thu 14:15-16:00 (LEE D 105)
2 h weekly

Offered In