Circuits in Upper E&M: Learn Beyond Freshman Physics 2

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    Circuits E&m
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the coverage of circuits in upper-level Electromagnetism (E&M) courses compared to freshman physics courses. Participants explore whether additional circuit courses are necessary for deeper understanding beyond introductory material.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that upper-level E&M classes typically do not cover circuits in depth, focusing instead on concepts like inductance.
  • Another participant mentions that their experience included an electronics lab that provided practical circuit-building experience, indicating variability based on institution.
  • A different participant proposes that it is common to take a lab course related to circuits, though the naming may vary.
  • It is noted that course offerings can differ significantly between universities, and checking the course catalog is advisable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the extent of circuit coverage in upper-level E&M courses, indicating that there is no consensus on the necessity of additional circuit courses for deeper understanding.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight that experiences and course offerings can differ based on individual universities, suggesting that assumptions about course content may not apply universally.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering upper-level E&M courses or those interested in furthering their understanding of circuits in a physics context may find this discussion relevant.

torquemada
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we are learning a lot about circuits in freshman physics 2 - does junior/senior E&M do circuits - or do i need to take a circuit course if i want to learn more about circuits beyond freshman physics 2? thx
 
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You probably won't cover much circuits in you're upper level EM class. You win probably learn more about inductance, which is certainly relevant to how inductors work, but you won't be learning as much about circuits as you will in a freshman level class.

In my school we had an electronics lab where we learned more about circuits and built them on jobboards, but i think that is something that depends on what school you're going to.

My best advice, look up the textbook being used for your upper level EM class. It will probably be Griffiths.
 
I 'think' it's pretty standard to take a lower or upper division lab on circuits. It may be called something like 'Physics Lab I,' or something generic though.
 
As always, "your mileage may vary" from one university to another. Look at your university's course catalog or website to find out (at least approximately) what your upper-level courses contain.
 

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