Course Name: Capstone: Electromagnetism
Course Number: PH431
Course Credits: This course combines approximately 90 hours of instruction, and assignments for 3 credits.
Prerequisites: (PH 424 or 524) and (PH 426 or PH 526)
Course Description: Electromagnetism is a pillar of modern physics, and is also the foundation of nearly all the technologies we depend on in our daily life. Electromagnetism is the first successful unification theory in Physics. The two apparently distinct phenomena: electricity and magnetism turned out to be closely related. After discussing electricity and magnetism, we will find out how they are unified. The unification leads to new insights, such as light and radiation of electromagnetic waves, which will be the subject of study in the later half of the course.
Course Content: static electric and magnetic fields in matter, electrodynamics, Maxwell equations, electromagnetic waves, light at dielectric interface, retarded potential, dipole radiation, group project on special beams
Course Specific Measurable Student Learning Outcomes:
Students can derive the correct boundary conditions for electric and magnetic fields
Students can solve the electrostatic field using Coulomb's law or through Laplace equation in special geometries
Student can solve electromagnetic static fields in polarizable materials with special geometries
Students can choose correct approximations to express the electromagnetic field in near and far fields
Students can explain the energy conservation derived from the Maxwell equations
Students can express plan waves with specific direction and polarization using different Gauges.
Students can calculate the energy density and energy flux of plan waves before and after hitting an interface
Students can demonstrate causality in electromagnetic fields.
Students can independently search literature for relevant research articles and make clear oral presentations
Students can numerically calculate and visualize solutions of Maxwell equations
Students can write a research report in professional format
This course is not a Bacc Core Course.
Evaluation of Student Performance:
The final score is calculated based on homework (30%), midterm exam (25%), final exam (30%) and project (15%).
Homework and project are distributed through Canvas, and are expected before midnight of the due dates by email or in the drop off box. No late homework will be accepted without prior consent.
Homework and project are best hand in pdf format so we can comment electronically. Using Latex is highly recommended. Other editing programs, such as MS Word or Mathematica can export pdf as well. If you prefer handwriting, make sure it is clearly written and if possible, scan or take a picture then convert to pdf files. Notice that you do have the option to hand in homework in paper format.
Learning Resources (all optional):
Textbook: Introduction to Electrodynamics, D. J. Griffiths, 3rd or 4th edition.
Reference: For a refresh of vector calculus with easy reading: Div Grad Curl and All That, by h. m. schey.
Also for a good review of the math frequently encountered in this class: Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sicence, by Mary L. Boas.
Statement Regarding Students with Disabilities: Accommodations for students with disabilities are determined and approved by Disability Access Services (DAS). If you, as a student, believe you are eligible for accommodations but have not obtained approval please contact DAS immediately at 541-737-4098 or at http://ds.oregonstate.edu. DAS notifies students and faculty members of approved academic accommodations and coordinates implementation of those accommodations. While not required, students and faculty members are encouraged to discuss details of the implementation of individual accommodations.
Student Conduct Expectations link:
http://studentlife.oregonstate.edu/code
Reach Out for Success: University students encounter setbacks from time to time. If you encounter difficulties and need assistance, it’s important to reach out. Consider discussing the situation with an instructor or academic advisor. Learn about resources that assist with wellness and academic success at oregonstate.edu/ReachOut. If you are in immediate crisis, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting OREGON to 741-741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Other remarks:
It is a good idea to discuss with colleagues about homework, but you need to finish by yourself. Some variants of homework will show up in the exams.
Tentative Schedule: