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402-0204-00L 7 Credits BSC , DS , MSC D-USYS , D-PHYS , D-MATH , D-CHAB
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Electrodynamics

Elektrodynamik

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Gian Michele Graf
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:44

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

Lecture Notes

Deutsch, wird abgegeben.

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, Elektrodynamik, Optik (Vorlesungen über theoretische Physik) M. Born and E. Wolf, Principles of optics R. Feynman, R. Leighton, and M. Sands, The Feynman Lectures of Physics, Vol II

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC , DS , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
None
Wer die schriftliche Prüfung nicht besteht, hat die Möglichkeit, noch in derselben Prüfungssession eine 20-minütige mündliche Prüfung zu absolvieren (gilt nicht als Repetition der Prüfung). Durch eine mündliche Prüfung kann die Note auf maximal 4 verbessert werden.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Elektrodynamik
  • Wed 08:45-10:30 (HPH G 3)
  • Fri 10:15-12:00 (HG G 3)
4 h weekly
exercise Elektrodynamik
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (HG F 26.1)
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (HG G 26.1)
  • Wed 10:45-12:30 (HPP G 5)
  • Wed 10:45-12:30 (HPP H 1)
  • Wed 10:45-12:30 (HPP H 5)
  • Wed 10:45-12:30 (HPP H 6)
2 h weekly

Offered In