Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2015-2016 (archived)

Module MATH2657: SPECIAL RELATIVITY AND ELECTROMAGNETISM II

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH2657: SPECIAL RELATIVITY AND ELECTROMAGNETISM II

Type Open Level 2 Credits 10 Availability Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Calculus and Probability 1 (MATH1061) and Linear Algebra 1 (MATH1071)

Corequisites

  • Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031)

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • To appreciate the conceptual and mathematical structure of Special Relativity. To appreciate classical electromagnetism as an example of a relativistic theory.

Content

  • Electro- and magnetostatics
  • Time-dependent Fields and Maxwell's Equations
  • Inertial Frames:
  • Relativistic formulation of Maxwell's Equations
  • Spacetime and systems of free particles

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a range of predictable and unpredictable problems in the given topics.
  • Have an awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical mathematics in the field of the given topics.
  • Have a knowledge and understanding of the major theories of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Electro- and magnetostatics, Time-dependent Fields and Maxwell's Equations Inertial Frames,Relativistic formulation of Maxwell's Equations, Spacetime and systems of free particles
Subject-specific Skills:
  • In addition students will have the ability to undertake and defend the use of alternative mathematical skills in the following areas with minimal guidance: Modelling.
Key Skills:

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lecturing demonstrates what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
  • Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills.
  • Tutorials provide active engagement and feedback to the learning process.
  • The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 22 2 per week for 10 weeks in Epiphany and Easter 1 Hour 20
Tutorials 4 Fortnightly in Epiphany and Easter 1 Hour 5 ■
Problems Classes 4 Fortnightly in Epiphany 1 Hour 4
Preparation and Reading 71
Total 100

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
end of year written examination 2 hours 100% yes

Formative Assessment:

Fortnightly or Weekly written assignments.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University