Mathematical methods for physicists

PHYS-216 / 3 credits

Teacher: Augusto Penedones Fernandes João Miguel

Language: English

Summary

This course complements the Analysis and Linear Algebra courses by providing further mathematical background and practice required for 3rd year physics courses, in particular electrodynamics and quantum mechanics.

Content

Learning Prerequisites

Required courses

Analyse I, II and III. Linear algebra I and II Physics I, II, and III.

Recommended courses

Linear Algebra I and II.

Analysis I, II, III and IV.

Probability and Statistics.

Analytical Mechanics.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

  • Solve Physics and Mathematical problems using an appropriate method taught during the first two years of Bachelor.

Transversal skills

  • Demonstrate the capacity for critical thinking

Teaching methods

Ex cathedra lecture and assisted exercises in the classroom

Assessment methods

written exam

Supervision

Assistants Yes

Resources

Bibliography

The main reference for the course is the book by Arfken:

G. B. Arfken, H. J. Weber, and F. E. Harris
"Mathematical Methods for Physicists, A Comprehensive Guide"
 7th edition, Academic Press 2013.
Hard copies and electronic version available through EPFL library.

Ressources en bibliothèque

Moodle Link

In the programs

  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Mathematical methods for physicists
  • Lecture: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks

Reference week

 MoTuWeThFr
8-9     
9-10     
10-11     
11-12     
12-13     
13-14     
14-15     
15-16     
16-17     
17-18     
18-19     
19-20     
20-21     
21-22