Course Title: Electrodynamics and Relativity

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Electrodynamics and Relativity

Credit Points: 12.00

Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

PHYS2181

City Campus

Undergraduate

171H School of Science

Face-to-Face

 Sem 2 2020,
Sem 2 2021,
Sem 2 2022,
Sem 2 2023,
Sem 2 2024

Course Coordinator: Prof Toby Allen

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 0439

Course Coordinator Email: toby.allen@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 014.06.017

Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment, by email


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

Recommended Prior Study

It is recommended to have satisfactorily completed the following course/s before you commence this course:

Alternatively, you may be able to demonstrate the required skills and knowledge before you start this course.

Contact your course coordinator if you think you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning.


Course Description

This course provides you with a quantitative understanding of the physical behaviour of electric and magnetic fields in free space and in matter. You will study in detail the laws of electromagnetism, and explore some of their important applications and consequences. The topics covered for an essential prerequisite for advanced studies in physics.

The treatment of topics is mathematical and rigorous as this course is designed to provide the requisites in electromagnetic theory for further studies in Physics.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s): 

BP350 - Bachelor of Science (Physics Major)

PLO 3 Analyse and apply principles of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation to address real-world scientific challenges and inform evidence based decision making.

BP330P23 - Bachelor of Space Science

PLO 1 Apply a broad and coherent knowledge of scientific theories, principles, concepts and practices, relevant to the field of space science and technology with multi-disciplinary collaboration.
PLO 2 Analyse and critically examine scientific evidence using methods, technical skills, tools and emerging technologies in a range of scientific activities.
PLO 3 Analyse and apply principles of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation to address real-world scientific challenges and inform evidence- based decision making.
PLO 4 Communicate, report and reflect on scientific findings, to diverse audiences utilising a variety of formats, employing integrity and culturally safe practices.

BP229P7 - Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (Physics Major)
BP229PHYS - Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)
BP247ASCDD - Bachelor of Science (Nanotechnology)/Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (Physics Major)

PLO 1.1 You will demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and an ability to apply the scientific method in practice.
PLO 2.1 You will have broad knowledge in your chosen discipline, with deep knowledge in its core concepts.
PLO 3.3 You will be able to choose appropriate tools and methods to solve scientific problems within your area of specialization.
PLO 3.4 You will demonstrate well-developed problem solving skills, applying your knowledge and using your ability to think analytically and creatively.
PLO 3.5 You will possess an ability to accurately record, analyse, interpret and critically evaluate your research findings.
PLO 4.1 You will be able to communicate the solution to a problem or the results of a scientific investigation using effective oral, written and presentation skills.
PLO 5.1 You will develop a capacity for independent and self-directed work.
PLO 5.2 You will work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.
PLO 5.3 You will develop an ability to work collaboratively.

BP305PHYDD - Bachelor of Science (Physics)/Bachelor of Business (Management)

PLO 1.1 Demonstrate an understanding of the ways of scientific thinking by recognising the creative endeavour involved in acquiring knowledge and the testable and contestable nature of the principles of physics.
PLO 1.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the essential role physics plays in society and underpins many industrial and technological advances.
PLO 1.3 Demonstrate an understanding of the role and importance of evidence in the continuous evolution of scientific and physics knowledge.
PLO 2.1 Broad knowledge in physics, with deep knowledge of, and applying the principles and concepts of physics.
PLO 3.2 Gather, critically review and synthesise information relevant to a scientific inquiry or research project.
PLO 3.3 You will be able to choose appropriate tools and methods to solve scientific problems within your area of specialization.
PLO 3.4 Well-developed problem solving skills, applying your knowledge and using your ability to think analytically and creatively.
PLO 4.1 Communicate physics knowledge by presenting information, articulate arguments and conclusions, in a variety of modes, to diverse audiences, and for a range of purposes.
PLO 5.1 Develop personal, professional and social responsibility by demonstrating a capacity for self-directed learning will demonstrate accountability for your own learning and professional conduct.
PLO 5.2 Work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.

For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.  


Upon successful completion of this course you should be able to:

  1. Understand Maxwell’s governing equations of electromagnetism;
  2. Solve problems in electrostatics and magnetostatics;
  3. Explain the varied effects of conductivity, magnetic permeability and dielectric permittivity in matter;
  4. Solve problems in electrodynamics and special relativity;
  5. Communicate and explain these concepts to others;
  6. Apply the theory learned to novel physical situations, through mathematical manipulation of the underlying equations.


Overview of Learning Activities

You will be actively engaged in a range of learning activities including lectorials, tutorials, class discussion and assignments involving both individual and group activities. Delivery will be face to face.

You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.


Overview of Learning Resources

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.

There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.


Overview of Assessment

Assessment Tasks

Assessment Task 1: Tutorials (in-class problem sets) 
Weighting 10% 
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 

Assessment Task 2: Assignments (problem sets) 
Weighting 40% 
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4 

Assessment Task 3: End of semester test (invigilated test) 
Weighting 50% 
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3 & 4 

If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.