Learning objectives
The objective of the course is the knowledge of the fundamental laws of electromagnetism and optics.
Prerequisites
General Physics AB approved.<br />
The course is calculus based.
Course unit content
The magnetic field – Force on a moving charge and on a current – Torque on a current loop - Hall effect<br />
Magnetic field of a current – Ampère’s law – Force between two currents – Magnetic flux<br />
Magnetic properties of matter – Internal electronic currents and magnetization – Diamagnetism, paramagnetism, and ferromagnetism<br />
Electromagnetic induction and Faraday’s law – Lentz’s law – The current generator -<br />
Self-inductance – inductive circuits – Magnetic field energy – Mutual induction<br />
Displacement current - Ampère-Maxwell’s law<br />
Electromagnetic waves – Types of electromagnetic waves<br />
Maxwell’s equations – Plane waves – Poynting’s vector – The electromagnetic wave spectrum – The speed of light<br />
Ray optics – Reflection and refraction – Lenses and mirrors – Lens systems<br />
Wave optics and Huyghens’ principle – Interference of light – The double slit – Multiple slits –Interference in thin films – Michelson interferometer<br />
Diffraction by narrow slit – Resolving power of a lens – Diffraction grating – Basic spectroscopy – x ray diffraction<br />
Polarization of light – Polarizers – Wave retarders – Brewster angle
Full programme
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Bibliography
Fundamental Physics - Halliday, Resnick, Walker - vol II - John Wiley & Sons<br />
For a deeper insight:<br />
Physics - Halliday, Resnick, Krane - - John Wiley & Sons<br />
P.Mazzoldi, M.Nigro, C.Voci – Fisica vol. II Elettromagnetismo - Onde. Ed. EdiSES (in Italian)
Teaching methods
It is required to pass both a written and an oral examination.<br />
Exercise sessions will be held during the course.
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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