Physics 431: Electromagnetism

Course Goal

To provide a thorough introductory understanding of the concepts and  principles of electromagnetism and to develop a working understanding of the subject through problem solving.

Prerequisites

Theoretical Physics II (PHYS 316).

Text

Electrodynamics by Griffiths (3rd Edition). I will be using this text for the first time during the Fall 199 semester.  The course outline will be updated closer to the start of the semester.

Grading

Electromagnetism is a central subject of physics with a long and well-developed history.  Many of the important concepts and techniques of the subject involve being able to solve complex problems, a capacity that cannot be adequately tested in conventional exams.  For this reason the homework is a very important part of this course. You must get at least 10% (of the 30% assigned) of the homework points to pass the class.   This stipulation is to ensure that you make a serious effort at all of the assignments, and that you seek help when you are having difficulties.   The lowest 5% of individual homework problem scores will be neglected in calculating the final homework grade.
 The three tests will be 50 minute in-class affairs over the material covered since the last test.
The final exam is comprehensive over the material covered in class and in the homework.