Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields from Coursera

This course is a continuation of Electrodynamics: An Introduction and Electrodynamics: Analysis of Electric Fields. Here, we will introduce magnetostatics and relate it to the material we learned previously. In addition, we will cover the basics of the electromotive force and how it can be used to build different devices.

Learners will

• Be able to use solutions from electric fields and relate them to other subjects (heat transfer, diffusion, membrane modeling)

• Understand Maxwell's equations in the context of magnetostatics

• Be introduced to energy and quantum mechanics relating to magnetic forces

By relating the concepts in this lecture to other fields, such as heat/mass diffusion, and describing their potential applications, we hope to make this course applicable to our students careers. Because this course covers both basic concepts and device construction, we have designed it to be useful for researchers and industry professionals alike. The approach taken in this course complements traditional approaches, covering a fairly complete treatment of the physics of electricity and magnetism, and adds Feynman’s unique and vital approach to grasping a picture of the physical universe. Furthermore, this course uniquely provides the link between the knowledge of electrodynamics and its practical applications to research in materials science, information technology, electrical engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, energy storage, energy harvesting, and other materials related fields.

What's inside

Syllabus

Electrostatic Analogs

This module covers the how electrodynamic solutions can be used to find solutions applicable to other fields. We describe how electrodynamics is comparable to heat transfer, membrane physics, neutron diffusion, and other natural phenomenon. Through these comparisons, understanding of other physics can be realized.

Magnetostatics

This module introduces magnetostatics, and the magnetic field outside of different geometries, and how relativity can be used to understand magnetic forces. To lead into this, we will describe how to characterize current in a wire and while doing this, attention will again be drawn to the similarities between electrostatics and magnetostatics

The Magnetic Field in Various Situations

This lecture introduces the concept of the magnetic vector potential, which is analogous to the electric potential. We explain the distribution of the magnetic potential and how to use it when solving for the electric field. The magnetic dipole is also introduced and the Biot-Savart law is described.

Assessing the Vector Potential

In the first part of this module, we explore the topic of energy and work in the context of electrodynamics. Then we explain the usefulness of the magnetic vector potential (A) and why it is a real field. Finally, we tie these concepts with quantum mechanical electrodynamics, and reveal equations that are useful beyond the scope of statics.

Induced Currents

In the final module, we mostly cover the electromotive force, induced currents, and how they may be applied to create devices. We show how forces, electric currents, and magnetism all interact in order to operate machinery.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners who understand electrostatics

Develops professional skills or deep expertise in a particular topic or set of topics in electromagnetism, such as magnetostatics, the electromotive force, and the magnetic field

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of electromagnetism

Offers a comprehensive study of one aspect of science, math, and technology: electromagnetism

Takes a creative approach to an otherwise established topic, field, or subject by relating the concepts in this lecture to other fields, such as heat/mass diffusion

Explores magnetostatics and relates it to the material learned previously in electrodynamics

Reviews summary

Enjoyable electrodynamics course

According to students, this Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course is enjoyable and well-received with engaging assignments, expert instructors, and great content. Students appreciate the clear explanations and depth of the material provided.

Interesting and helpful.

"nice explanation by mentors"

"Very good method of teaching about electrodynamics"

"Require more exercises or information to cover up more areas of the field"

Knowledgeable and engaging.

"Brilliant tutorial and wonderful explanations from the lecturer"

"Enjoyed the course. A great professor!"

"Thank you professor for your nice presentation."

Clear and detailed.

"Very informative and detailed course."

"Well explained i learnt so many new things, thanking you to providing this resource"

"This course is very depply understanding of Electric and Magnetic phenomenon."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields with these activities:

Revisiting basic electrodynamics concepts

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Review the core foundations of electrodynamics to enhance understanding of advanced concepts covered in this course.

Browse courses on Electrodynamics

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Review lecture notes and textbooks from previous electrodynamics courses.
Solve practice problems related to basic electrodynamics principles.
Attend online forums or discussion groups to engage with other learners.

Solving electrostatics problems

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Strengthen problem-solving skills in electrostatics to build a solid foundation for magnetostatics.

Browse courses on Electrostatics

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Find practice problems and worksheets on electrostatics.
Solve problems involving electric fields, Gauss's law, and potential.
Compare solutions with peers or online resources to identify areas for improvement.
Seek guidance from the course instructor or a tutor if needed.

Exploring magnetostatics simulations

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Visualize and interact with magnetostatic concepts through simulations, deepening understanding.

Browse courses on Magnetostatics

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Identify online simulations or software that demonstrate magnetostatic phenomena.
Explore simulations involving magnetic fields, Ampere's law, and magnetic materials.
Analyze the results and draw conclusions about magnetostatic principles.

Five other activities

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Reviewing 'Classical Electrodynamics' by Jackson

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Expand knowledge and reinforce concepts covered in this course by exploring an authoritative textbook on electrodynamics.

View John David Jackson: A Course in Quantum... on Amazon

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Read and study selected chapters relevant to the course material.
Solve practice problems and review examples to test understanding.
Attend book discussion groups or engage in online forums to discuss concepts.

Developing an infographic on electromagnetism

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Integrate knowledge of electromagnetism by creating a visual summary that highlights key concepts and relationships.

Browse courses on Electromagnetism

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Gather information and data on electromagnetism from various sources.
Design the infographic using visual elements, charts, and diagrams.
Write clear and concise text to explain the concepts and connections.
Share the infographic with peers or online communities for feedback.

Tutoring fellow students in electrodynamics

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Solidify your understanding of electrodynamics by explaining concepts and assisting others.

Browse courses on Electrodynamics

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Identify opportunities to tutor or mentor fellow students who may need support.
Prepare lesson plans or materials to facilitate effective tutoring sessions.
Provide guidance, explanations, and support to students during tutoring sessions.
Reflect on tutoring experiences to identify areas for improvement.

Building an electromagnetic coil

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Apply theoretical knowledge to a practical project, reinforcing understanding of electromagnetic principles.

Browse courses on Electromagnetism

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Research different types of electromagnetic coils and their applications.
Design and plan the construction of your own electromagnetic coil.
Gather necessary materials and equipment.
Assemble and test the electromagnetic coil.
Analyze the results and make adjustments as needed.

Participating in an electromagnetism design competition

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Challenge yourself and showcase your knowledge by applying electromagnetism principles in a competitive setting.

Browse courses on Electromagnetism

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Identify and research electromagnetism design competitions that align with your interests.
Form a team or collaborate with others to develop a unique design.
Design, build, and test your electromagnetism device or system.
Present your design and compete against other teams.
Analyze the results and learn from the experience.

Career center

Learners who complete Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Electrical Engineer

As an Electrical Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course will provide you with a solid foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are essential for understanding and working with electrical systems. The course covers topics such as electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and circuit analysis, which are all fundamental to the field of electrical engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Materials Scientist

In the role of a Materials Scientist, you will be tasked with developing new materials for applications in various fields, such as energy, healthcare, and electronics. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course you are taking can prove to be a valuable asset in this career path, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles governing the behavior of electromagnetic fields in materials. This knowledge will be crucial in designing and optimizing materials with tailored electrical and magnetic properties for specific applications.

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Physicist

As a Physicist, you will be involved in researching and understanding the fundamental laws of nature. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course can provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which is a key area of study in physics. The course covers topics such as electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and Maxwell's equations, which are essential for understanding the behavior of electromagnetic phenomena.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physicist

Chemical Engineer

In the role of a Chemical Engineer, you will be tasked with designing and operating chemical plants and processes. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course can be beneficial in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various chemical engineering processes. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing electrochemical cells, which are used in a variety of chemical processes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Energy Storage Engineer

As an Energy Storage Engineer, you will be involved in the research, development, and deployment of energy storage systems. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course can provide you with a solid understanding of the principles of electromagnetism, which are fundamental to the design and operation of energy storage devices such as batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Storage Engineer

Electrochemical Engineer

As an Electrochemical Engineer, you will be involved in the design, development, and operation of electrochemical systems and processes. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course can be beneficial in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are fundamental to understanding the behavior of electrochemical systems. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing electrochemical cells, which are used in a variety of applications such as batteries, fuel cells, and electroplating.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrochemical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical systems and components. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various mechanical engineering systems. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing electric motors, generators, and magnetic levitation systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design, develop, operate, and maintain nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various nuclear systems. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing nuclear reactors, as well as radiation detection and shielding systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nuclear Engineer

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers apply engineering principles to the design and development of medical devices and systems. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various biomedical devices and systems. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing medical imaging systems, such as MRI and CT scanners, as well as electrical stimulation devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers design, develop, test, and operate aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace vehicles. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various aerospace systems. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing electrical systems for aircraft and spacecraft, as well as radar and communication systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Plasma Physicist

Plasma Physicists study the behavior of plasma, which is a state of matter that is composed of ions and electrons. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are fundamental to understanding the behavior of plasma. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing plasma reactors, which are used to produce plasma for various applications, such as semiconductor manufacturing and materials processing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Plasma Physicist

Geophysicist

Geophysicists study the physical properties of the Earth, including its magnetic field. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are fundamental to understanding the behavior of the Earth's magnetic field. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in developing and interpreting data from magnetometers, which are used to measure the Earth's magnetic field.

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Materials Characterization Engineer

Materials Characterization Engineers develop and use techniques to characterize the structure and properties of materials. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which have applications in various materials characterization techniques. For example, understanding electromagnetic fields is important in designing and optimizing electron microscopes, which are used to image the structure of materials at the atomic level.

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Electronics Engineer

Electronics Engineers design, develop, test, and maintain electronic devices and systems. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are fundamental to understanding and working with electronic devices and systems. The course covers topics such as electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and circuit analysis, which are all essential to the field of electronics engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electronics Engineer

Electrical Designer

Electrical Designers design and develop electrical systems and components. The Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields course may be useful in this field, as it provides a foundation in the principles of electromagnetism, which are essential for understanding and working with electrical systems. The course covers topics such as electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and circuit analysis, which are all fundamental to the field of electrical design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Designer