Classical Field Theory: On Electrodynamics, Non-Abelian Gauge Theories and Gravitation

Schecks textbook provides a comprehensive treatment of Maxwell's equations, covering integral, direct, testable forms, classical field theory, wave equation solutions, metamaterials, Helmholtz equation, and non-Abelian gauge theories. It also discusses semi-Riemannian geometry and the Schwarzschild solution of Einstein's equations, with labeled material and sections for different levels of treatment.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 464 pages
\n Publication date: 19 March 2018
\n Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG
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The textbook, authored by a renowned expert in the field, offers a comprehensive and meticulously detailed treatment, making it an ideal choice for a one-semester course. It begins by presenting Maxwell's equations in their integral, directly testable form, before delving into their local formulation. The first two chapters cover all essential properties of Maxwell's equations, including their symmetries and their covariance, using modern notation. Chapter 3 focuses on Maxwell's theory as a classical field theory, exploring its foundations and providing solutions to the wave equation. Chapter 4 explores the significant applications of Maxwell's theory, covering topics such as metamaterials with negative refraction indices and the paraxial approximation of Helmholtz's equation, which is crucial for describing laser beams. Chapter 5 introduces non-Abelian gauge theories, drawing parallels with Maxwell's theory and culminating in an application to the U(2) theory, which is relevant for electroweak interactions. Chapter 6 provides a concise summary of semi-Riemannian geometry, serving as the framework for classical field theory of gravitation. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the Schwarzschild solution of Einstein's equations and classical tests of general relativity.

This edition introduces a novel concept, dividing the content into two tracks: the fast track for master's students, focusing on the essentials, and the intensive track for those seeking a deeper understanding of the field. Clear labeling of material and sections ensures that students navigate through the preferred level of treatment. Numerous problems and worked examples are provided to facilitate successful access to Classical Field Theory.

\n Weight: 884g\n
Dimension: 166 x 246 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783662555774\n
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2018\n