Foundations of classical and quantum electrodynamics (Q2869806)

This is a textbook combining classical electrodynamics and some aspects of quantum electrodynamics. The latter part includes the quantum theory of emission and scattering of photons, and the theory of the formation of electron-positron pairs by the electromagnetic field. The former part (classical theory) is focused on Maxwell's equations, and the classical theory of emission and scattering of radiation. In addition, the mathematical formalism underlying classical electrodynamics and relativistic mechanics is considered in detail. The interaction of the electromagnetic fields with matter is not covered by this book.NEWLINENEWLINEThe textbook is intended not as support for taking a regular undergraduate or graduate course, but rather as a book for self-education of people at the students' level (for both undergraduates and graduates, as well as for researchers who need to improve their knowledge of electrodynamics). For this reason, the scope of topics included in the book is relatively limited, but each topic is illustrated by a very large number of exercises (roughly, 100 exercises per chapter). In fact, some exercises are an inherent part of the presentation of the basic material, as they include many essential pieces of the derivation of basic results. Solutions of the exercises are included, too.