What textbook covers advanced topics in EM for photonics research?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the search for advanced textbooks on electrodynamics suitable for photonics research, particularly after completing Griffiths' electrodynamics. Participants are looking for resources that delve into mathematical methods and conceptual understanding in electromagnetism.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses the need for a textbook that covers advanced mathematical methods in EM, such as Bessel functions and Green functions, along with strong conceptual content.
  • Another participant recommends Jackson's Classical Electrodynamics as a suitable option for the requested topics.
  • A different participant suggests Vanderlinde's Classical Electromagnetic Theory as a slightly lower-level alternative to Jackson.
  • One participant mentions Schwinger's Classical Electrodynamics, noting its short chapters that facilitate understanding.
  • Another participant reiterates the recommendation of Schwinger's book, emphasizing its structure.
  • One participant finds the book Electromagnetic Processes by Robert J. Gould to be interesting.
  • A later reply indicates that the original poster has decided to acquire Jackson's electrodynamics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the recommendations of Jackson's and Schwinger's books, but there are multiple suggestions and no consensus on a single best option for the original poster's needs.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may depend on the specific focus within photonics research, and the appropriateness of each book may vary based on the reader's background and the depth of coverage required.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students transitioning to graduate studies in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and photonics research.

xmavidis
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"Life" after Griffiths EM

Hi,

I need a textbook on electrodynamics. I have already finished Griffiths electrodynamics, a wonderful book but it does not cover the things I need now from an EM book (i.e. research on photonics).

Therefore, I need a book which covers the mathematical methods on EM problems (eg. expansion on Bessel functions, Green functions, etc) and also be strong on the conseptual concepts of EM.

I am an undergraduate planning to apply next fall to grad school.
 
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Jackson's Classical Electrodynamics is precisely what you ask for! You may also want to take a look at Classical Electromagnetic Theory by Vanderlinde (at a slightly lower level).
 


A non-Jackson book I like is Schwinger's Classical Electrodynamics book.
 


nicksauce said:
A non-Jackson book I like is Schwinger's Classical Electrodynamics book.

I like it...short chapters that cover one subject and allow for the digestion of the material.
 


Thank you for your responses.
Just got Jackson's electrodynamics.
 

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