Pre-Quantum Electrodynamics

Fundamentals: After properly studying this module, you should be able to:

• state the postulates of Special Relativity
• give the definition of the time dilation factor \(\gamma\)
• state the formula for Lorentz contraction
• write down the Minkowski metric
• explain invariant intervals, spacelike, timelike and lightlike intervals
• give the definition of the proper velocity
• define the four-velocity and the energy-momentum four-vector
• write down the electromagnetic field tensor
• state its Lorentz transformation rules
• give the definition of the current density four-vector
• state the continuity equation in tensor notation
• state Maxwell's equations (Lorenz gauge, four-vector notation)

Applications: As a strict minimum, you should be able to:

• rederive the formula for a Lorentz transformation for motion along a given axis
• rederive the formula for motion under a constant force
• rederive law for Lorentz transformation of EM fields