Electrodynamics and Optics for Astrophysicists

4 credits

Electrodynamics and optics with an emphasis on astrophysical applications. Topics include Maxwell’s equations in vacuum and media, applications; electromagnetic waves, Poynting theorem, waves in media; waveguides, resonators, solution of PDEs by separation; Fermat’s principle, geometrical optics, lenses with introduction to gravitational lensing; physical optics, diffraction (Fresnel and Fraunhofer), and interference. Prerequisites: ASTR 101, and PHYS 2A/2AR-B-C-D or 4A-B-C-D-E, and ASTR 18.