This core physics course deals with classical electromagnetism. This course includes considerations of: electrostatic fields in free space and in dielectrics; magnetic fields due to steady and varying currents; electromagnetic induction; magnetic materials; Maxwell's equations and the propagation of electromagnetic waves; dipole radiation; waveguides. The course includes a lab component as part of the combined second year lab program.

Honours Pathway Option

This course is offered as an advanced option. Students taking this option will be required to complete alternative assignment options comprising 15% of the total assessment.

1. describe and understand the basic concepts underpinning electricity and magnetism such as potential and field.

2. understand the relationship between electric and magnetic fields.

3. calculate the electrostatic and magnetic fields produced by static and moving charges in a variety of simple configurations.

4. see how the theory describing electricity and magnetism relates to areas in physics such as gravitation, fluids, thermal physics  and quantum mechanics.

5. identify and apply appropriate theoretical techniques to solve a range of different problems in electromagnetism.

6. apply those theoretical techniques to solve problems in any context underpinned by coupled linear differential equations.

7. design, set up, and carry out experiments; analyse data recognising and accounting for errors; and compare with theoretical predictions.

Examination 70% (LO 1-6), weekly assignments 20% (LO1-6), lab 10% (LO 7).

Contact hours include approximately thirty-six lectures and twelve tutorials, plus approximately 6 hours in the lab over the semester.

PHYS1101 and PHYS1201. It is desirable that students have completed mathematics to at least the standard of MATH2305 or MATH2405, unless they have previously completed MATH2023. Students should also consider enrolment in MATH2306.

ENGN4502