Course Overview
This course is a detailed treatment of classical electromagnetic theory. In the beginning, physical units and fundamental vector algebra are introduced. Static and dynamic field equations are presented, leading to Maxwell's Equations. Solutions to Maxwell's Equations for numerous practical configurations are covered, encompassing complex geometries, real materials, wave propagation, power, and energy. These basics provide the foundation for circuit theory, wireless transmission, and electromechanical energy conversion, as well as other areas of electrical engineering.
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain the fundamentals of vector algebra that govern the laws of addition, subtraction, and multiplication of vectors in different coordinate systems [1, 2].
- Explain the classical laws of electromagnetics operating in vacuum and practical space containing materials with complex permittivity, permeability, and conductivity [1, 2].
- Interpret the laws of electromagnetics mathematically using multidimensional vector calculus [1, 2].
- Simplify complicated physical problems using symmetry and energy considerations [1, 2].
- Solve symbolically, and numerically using Matlab, the appropriate model equations for fields, potentials, forces, energy, and power [1, 2, 5].
- Explain the analogies between electromagnetic laws and the laws of circuit theory [1, 2, 3].
- Explain the use of electromagnetic field theory in studying wave propagation through waveguides, transmission lines, and optical fibers [1, 2, 3, 5].
- Introduce the basic principles of radiation and antenna patterns [1,2].
- Configure laboratory apparatus to isolate specific electromagnetic variables for investigation [2, 3, 6].
- Measure electromagnetic variables qualitatively and numerically using laboratory instruments [2, 3, 6].
Engineering Accreditation
The Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) oversees the accreditation of engineering programs across Canada. To measure the effectiveness of an engineering program the CEAB has identified twelve specific attributes that the graduate is expected to possess and use as the foundation to developing and advancing an engineering career. To ensure that the overall curriculum of the Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical program covers these attributes sufficiently, the learning outcomes for each course have been mapped to applicable CEAB graduate attributes.
1. A knowledge base for engineering: Demonstrated competence in university level mathematics, natural sciences, engineering fundamentals, and specialized engineering knowledge appropriate to the program.
2. Problem analysis: An ability to use appropriate knowledge and skills to identify, formulate, analyze, and solve complex engineering problems in order to reach substantiated conclusions.
3. Investigation: An ability to conduct investigations of complex problems by methods that include appropriate experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, and synthesis of information in order to reach valid conclusions.
4. Design: An ability to design solutions for complex, open-ended engineering problems and to design systems, components or processes that meet specified needs with appropriate attention to health and safety risks, applicable standards, and economic, environmental, cultural and societal considerations.
5. Use of engineering tools: An ability to create, select, apply, adapt, and extend appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools to a range of engineering activities, from simple to complex, with an understanding of the associated limitations.
6. Individual and team work: An ability to work effectively as a member and leader in teams, preferably in a multi-disciplinary setting.
7. Communication skills: An ability to communicate complex engineering concepts within the profession and with society at large. Such ability includes reading, writing, speaking and listening, and the ability to comprehend and write effective reports and design documentation, and to give and effectively respond to clear instructions.
8. Professionalism: An understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the professional engineer in society, especially the primary role of protection of the public and the public interest.
9. Impact of engineering on society and the environment: An ability to analyze social and environmental aspects of engineering activities. Such ability includes an understanding of the interactions that engineering has with the economic, social, health, safety, legal, and cultural aspects of society, the uncertainties in the prediction of such interactions; and the concepts of sustainable design and development and environmental stewardship.
10. Ethics and equity: An ability to apply professional ethics, accountability, and equity.
11. Economics and project management: An ability to appropriately incorporate economics and business practices including project, risk, and change management into the practice of engineering and to understand their limitations.
12. Life-long learning: An ability to identify and to address their own educational needs in a changing world in ways sufficient to maintain their competence and to allow them to contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Effective as of Fall 2019
Related Programs
Electromagnetics Fundamentals (ELEX 7530) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Energy
- Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.