Entry requirements

Linear Algebra and Geometry I, Single Variable Calculus, Several Variable Calculus (curve integrals and surface integrals), Scientific Computing I (MATLAB), Mechanics I (force, energy, particle motion).

The course Measuring Techniques is strongly recommended.

Learning outcomes

Electromagnetism is a fundamental part of classical physics with considerable technological applications. The course constitutes a basis for further studies in physics, electrical engineering and materials science.

After passing the course, the student will be able to

• account for basic theories in electrostatics, electrical circuits, stationary electromagnetism and electromagnetic induction,
• performing calculations of electric and magnetic fields in space in some simple geometries with simple boundary conditions.
• performing calculations of stationary and time-dependent electrical currents in simple circuits containing resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
• accounting for the operational principles of simple electrical devices.
• handling the most common instruments for electrical measurements.

Content

• Electrostatics: electric charge and electric field electric potential, electric dipole Gauss’s law for electric field on integral form. Capacitors, electrostatic energy.
• Electric current: Ohm's law, resistivity and conductivity. Kirchhoff's laws, emf. Charging and discharging of capacitors, RC circuits. Overview of AC circuits, AC power and the ideal transformer.
• Stationary electromagnetism: magnetic fields and flux density and magnetic forces. Ampere's law for B-field on integral form and magnetic materials.
• Electromagnetic induction: Faraday's and Lenz' laws. Inductance. LR circuits.
• Principles of electric motors. Overview about safety considerations in electricity.
• Laboratory exercise: Capacitor experiments. Measurement of capacitance and effect of dielectrics. Measurements of charging and discharging, derivation of equations, and fitting of data using a model.
• Laboratory exercise: Induction. Demonstration of Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws and the inductance, as well as derivation of equations and fitting of data using a model.
• Laboratory exercise: Magnetic fields. Measurements of magnetic fields in simple geometries and theoretical calculation of the field for the same geometries, as well as comparison with measured data.
• Preparatory laboratory exercise: electric measurement techniques for those who lack necessary prerequisites (corresponding to the course Measuring Techniques). Introductory practice with the instruments used in the laboratory exercises.

Instruction

Lectures, problem solving sessions and laboratory work. Guest lecture.

Assessment

Laboratory exercises (1 credit)

Written examination at the end of the course (4 credits) and a non-compulsory half-time examination. Passing the half-time examination will give the student a bonus which is only valid at the final examination at the end of the course and at the first scheduled re-examination.