Module overview
This module introduces and develops the knowledge in fundamental electromagnetism for second year Electrical and Electronic Engineering students. The course presents the basic concepts of electromagnetic theory from a physical and application points of views. The vector algebra used in electromagnetic theory is introduced in the electromagnetic field context. The course concentrates on applications of the theory to practical problems, so that students gain a better understanding of the electromagnetic field theory through problem solving exercises.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The principles of electromagnetic radiation, propagation of electromagnetic waves in vacuum and in media
- Basic concepts of electromagnetic theory, including fundamental laws of electrodynamics.
- The interaction of electric and magnetic fields with matter
- Mathematical descriptions of electromagnetism and vector calculus in the electromagnetic field context
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Propose appropriate approaches and solutions for electromagnetic systems in different frequency ranges.
- Apply mathematical methods and vector algebra to practical problems
- Explain the operation of simple electromagnetic devices
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Calculate electric and magnetic fields generated by charges and currents, compute energy and forces associated with electromagnetic fields
- Derive equivalent circuits for electric and magnetic systems
- Understand the fundamentals underpinning the selection of components and materials for electromagnetic systems.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Develop complex mathematical models for the description of physical phenomena.
Syllabus
Electrostatics
• Gauss' Law and Electric Flux: Surface Integral, Dot Product
• Electric Potential (scalar): Line integral
• Polarisation – Relative Permittivity
• Electroquasistatics – Resistance, Steady currents
• Space charge and surface charges at interfaces
Magnetostatics
• Ampere’s Law, calculation of magnetic fields through line integral formulation
• Biot Savart Law & Force between wires
• Ferromagnetic materials. Magnetisation field. Gauss law for magnetic flux density.
• Magneto Motive Force, Magnetic circuits and Reluctance
• Magnetic Flux and Inductance
• Torque on a loop – principle of electric motor
Elements of Electrodynamics
• Faradays Law – magnetic field leads to electric field, Electro Motive Force
• Maxwell eqs. and Displacement Current, Skin Effect
Electromagnetism
• Energy and Power
• Power flow in electromagnetic systems – Poynting vector
• Forces from energy principles and Maxwell Stress Tensor (magnetic and electric systems)
Electromagnetic Waves
• Plane waves in free space (the equation, its derivation, and its properties)
• Different forms of waves (guided, surface, and those in transmission lines)
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The content of this module is delivered through lectures, module website, directed reading and tutorials.
Students work on their understanding through a combination of independent study, preparation for timetabled activities and discussion tutorials along with formative assessments in the form of coursework assignments and problem sheets.
Students work on their practical skills through problem solving.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 36 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Completion of assessment task | 35 |
| Wider reading or practice | 28 |
| Revision | 12 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 9 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Laboratory space and equipment. Equipment for the two dedicated laboratory experiements.
Software Requirements. None
Internet Resources
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Textbooks
John D. Kraus & Daniel A. Fleisch. Electromagnetics with Applications.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assignment | 10% |
| Assignment | 10% |
| Examination | 70% |
| Assignment | 10% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External