Vector review for electromagnetics

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on essential mathematical concepts for engineering electromagnetics, particularly for junior electrical engineering students. Key topics include basic vector math, partial derivatives (specifically curl and gradient), multivariable calculus (including Gauss's theorem), and the application of these concepts in various coordinate systems such as polar and spherical. Additionally, familiarity with solving Laplace's equation is beneficial, although it may not be covered in undergraduate courses. Understanding these mathematical principles enhances comprehension of electromagnetics applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic vector math (addition and multiplication of vectors)
  • Partial derivatives (curl and gradient)
  • Multivariable calculus (integration for area and volume, Gauss's theorem)
  • Coordinate systems (polar and spherical)
NEXT STEPS
  • Review vector calculus applications in electromagnetics
  • Study Gauss's theorem in detail
  • Learn about Laplace's equation and its solutions
  • Explore the use of different coordinate systems in engineering problems
USEFUL FOR

Junior electrical engineering students, educators preparing electromagnetics courses, and professionals seeking to strengthen their mathematical foundation in electromagnetics applications.

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I am a junior EE scheduled to take engineering electromagnetics in the Fall and want to know what math topics are the most useful to review. I know E&M involves quite a bit of vector analysis but I'm not sure how deep into it I should look. For anyone who has taken a similar course, can you recommend specific topics that you think are the most worthwhile to know.
 
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Basic vector math (adding, multiplying vectors)
Partial derivatives (Curl and gradient)
Multivariable calculus (integrating for area and volume, Gauss's theorem for divergence)

Doing all of the above in different coordinate systems (polar, spherical)

In undergraduate you probably won't get into the PDEs, but if you do knowing how to solve Laplace's equation.

Some of these things will make a lot more sense when you see them applied to EM than just reading about them from a purely mathematical standpoint (at least they did for me).
 

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