Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025
Module MATH2657: SPECIAL RELATIVITY AND ELECTROMAGNETISM II
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH2657: SPECIAL RELATIVITY AND ELECTROMAGNETISM II
| Type | Open | Level | 2 | Credits | 10 | Availability | Available in 2024/2025 | Module Cap | Location | Durham |
|---|
Prerequisites
- Calculus I (Maths Hons) (MATH1081) or Calculus I (MATH1061) and Linear Algebra I (Maths Hons) (MATH1091) or Linear Algebra I (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/Fortnightly 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 in Epiphany and in first week of Easter | 1 Hour | 22 | |
| Tutorials | 5 | Fortnightly in Epiphany and one in Easter | 1 Hour | 5 | ■ |
| Problems Classes | 4 | Fortnightly in Epiphany | 1 Hour | 4 | |
| Preparation and Reading | 69 | ||||
| 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