Books on Covariant formulation of Electrodynamics

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommended literature for the covariant formulation of electromagnetism, particularly focusing on classical field theory using Lagrangians. Key texts mentioned include Landau & Lifshitz's "Classical Field Theory" (Volume II) and "Electrodynamics in Matter" (Volume VIII), both essential for understanding microscopic electrodynamics. Additionally, F. Scheck's "Classical Field Theory" (Springer-Verlag, 2012) is highlighted for its modern approach, emphasizing the action principle and local gauge symmetries.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical field theory concepts
  • Familiarity with Lagrangian mechanics
  • Knowledge of four-vector notation
  • Basic principles of gauge symmetries
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Landau & Lifshitz Classical Field Theory" for in-depth theoretical insights
  • Explore "F. Scheck Classical Field Theory" for modern applications of field theory
  • Study the action principle in field theories for advanced understanding
  • Investigate local gauge symmetries in electromagnetism for a comprehensive grasp
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate physics students, theoretical physicists, and anyone interested in advanced electromagnetism and classical field theory.

Joker93
Messages
502
Reaction score
37
Hello!
I am an undergraduate currently enrolled in a course on theoretical physics. One big part of the course is on the classical field theory of electromagnetism(on its covariant formulation using Lagrangians mostly).
So, I would like to ask which are some good books on the subject.
Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
@vanhees71 do you have some good recommendations that you use for your classes?
 
Dale said:
@vanhees71 do you have some good recommendations that you use for your classes?
Please note that I tried Greiner's EM book which contains a chapter on the covariant approach but we are using a lot more the field theory approach with Lagrangians and four vectors..
 
There is, of course, Landau&Lifshitz vol. II (Classical Field Theory), containing classical electrodynamics and general relativity. This volume concentrates on "microscopic electrodynamics". Electrodynamics in matter is treated in vol. VIII, which is also a masterpiece.

A even more modern approach, using the action principle for field theories, the idea of local gauge symmetries, etc. is vol. II of Scheck's theory-book series:

F. Scheck, Classical Field Theory, Springer-Verlag 2012
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Joker93

Similar threads

Graduate Why do we use covariant formulation in classical electrodynamics?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Instantaneous electric field solved by extended electrodynamics?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
607
Undergrad Question about Coloumb's law notation and math in two different textbooks
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Intro Physics What is the best conceptual high school physics book?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
714
Undergrad Griffith, Electrodynamics, 4th Edition, Example 4.8. (Second part)
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
557
Quantum Math Textbooks to Read Before Starting QFT
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Graduate Difficulty with a Point Charge Particle in Electrodynamics
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Classical Confusion between Electrodynamics texts
  • · Replies 50 ·
2
Replies
50
Views
7K
Studying Higher Year Physics Studies with a Shaky Foundation
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Classical What Are the Best Resources for Learning Electrodynamics?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
5K