===== Static Vector Fields =====

The Static Vector Field Paradigm continues the discussion of E&M from the
Symmetries & Idealizations Paradigm, focusing on electric fields, magnetic
fields, and the magnetic vector potential. This course uses a variety of
pedagogical techniques (small group activities, computer visualization,
kinesthetic activities, and lecture/discussion) to help students build a
multifaceted understanding of these ideas. This course emphasizes extending
the integral versions of Maxwell's equations (learned in introductory physics)
to the local, differential versions; visualizing vector-valued functions in
three dimensions using the computer algebra software Maple; and extending the
techniques of vector calculus from rectangular to cylindrical and spherical
coordinates.
([[..:catalog:vfcat|Catalog Description]])


==== Course Goals ====
  * For students to build **conceptual and geometric understanding of current density, magnetic field, and magnetic vector potential** and a formal understanding of the relationships between them (using vector calculus)
  * For students to understand **divergence and curl** - formally and geometrically - and the **Divergence Theorem and Stoke's Theorem** formally and geometrically
  * To derive the **differential form of Maxwell's equations** from the integral form and for students to have link their conceptual understanding with the formalism of Maxwell's equations
  * For students to understand **Gauss' Law and Ampere's Law** and how to make explicit **symmetry arguments**.
  * For students to understand the continuity of electric and magnetic fields **across charge/current boundaries**.
  * For students to understand how **energy** is stored in electric and magnetic fields, and be able to calculate the energy from sources, fields and potentials.
  * For students to come to understand that **sources, fields, and potentials** are different constructs that address the same phenomena, but are useful in different ways.


** Sample Syllabus **

[[http://www.physics.oregonstate.edu/~corinne/COURSES/ph422/08/08Files|Fall 2008]]


**Textbook:**
[[bb>start|The Geometry of Vector Calculus]]----an introduction to vector
calculus, with applications to electromagnetism.  One of the Tables of
Contents for this online interactive textbook has been specifically designed
for this course.


===== Course Contents =====

{{page>..:order:vforder}}

==== Activities Included ====

  * [[activities:courses:vfindex|All activities]] for Static Vector Fields
  * [[swbq:courses:vfindex|All small whiteboard questions]] for Static Vector Fields\\\\ //(What are [[strategy:smallwhiteboard:|SWBQs]]?)//