electrodynamics

A student studies electrodynamics in a university library.

Definition

1. Noun (used with a singular verb):
   • The branch of physics that studies the interactions between electric currents and magnetic fields: "electrodynamics" is the scientific discipline that examines how electric charges and currents produce magnetic fields, and how these magnetic fields in turn affect electric charges and currents. It is a fundamental theory underlying much of modern technology.
   • A specific theory or set of laws within this field: "electrodynamics" can also refer to the mathematical framework (such as Maxwell's equations) that describes these phenomena.

Usage Examples

• (The branch of physics dealing with electric and magnetic interactions.)
• (The academic subject focused on electric and magnetic fields.)
• (The theoretical framework of the field.)

Advanced Usage

• "Quantum electrodynamics (QED)": a relativistic quantum field theory of the electromagnetic force, describing how light and matter interact.

  • Quantum electrodynamics is one of the most accurate theories in physics. (A specific advanced subfield of electrodynamics.)

• "Classical electrodynamics": the non-quantum version of the theory, dealing with macroscopic phenomena.

  • Classical electrodynamics accurately describes the behavior of antennas. (The traditional, non-quantum form of the theory.)

Variants and Related Words

• Electrodynamic (adj): relating to electrodynamics.

  • The electrodynamic forces between the wires caused them to attract each other. (Pertaining to the interactions studied in electrodynamics.)

• Electrodynamical (adj): a less common variant of "electrodynamic".

  • The electrodynamical equations were solved numerically. (Relating to electrodynamics.)

Synonyms

• Electromagnetic theory: the study of electric and magnetic fields and their interactions.
• Electromagnetics: a broader term that includes electrodynamics and static phenomena.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated with "electrodynamics". However, the verb "to study electrodynamics" is common.

Related Idioms

• None directly associated with "electrodynamics", but note the idiom "in the field of electrodynamics" (within the area of study).
  • She is a leading researcher in the field of electrodynamics. (She is an expert in this branch of physics.)