Electromagnetic Fields

by Roald K. Wangsness

This revised edition provides patient guidance in its clear and organized presentation of problems. It is rich in variety, large in number and provides very careful treatment of relativity. One outstanding feature is the inclusion of simple, standard examples demonstrated in different methods that will allow students to enhance and understand their calculating abilities. There are over 145 worked examples; virtually all of the standard problems are included.

Genres: Physics, Science

607 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1979

Reviews

[RAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review refers to the first edition.

Wangness is is a very detailed undergraduate covering mostly nonrelativistic electric and magnetic fields and waves. The detail found especially in its treatment of EM statics, is so impressive that it serves as a uniquely helpful background for typical more advanced texts, such as Jackson. And is vastly superior to Griffiths, Lorrain, and/or Ramo, in this regard.

Although written for physicists, most physics curricula do not cover statics in great detail anymore, mostly focussing on classical descriptions of electrodynamics, particularly, relativistic dynamics, in preparation for QED. However, this background is still quite useful in applied physics, electrical engineering and even chemistry, as much of these areas either are adequately described by by NR EM. Moreover, much intuition is to be gained. These mathematical models often serve as a start for a quantitative, semi-empirical description.

Pick up a copy, you will not be disappointed.

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is designed for people with a strong background in higher math. Be sure you have mastered differential equations before attempting this book. The explanations of concepts are fairly good but the examples are severely lacking.