Foundations of Relativistic Electrodynamics

Abstract

In this chapter, we describe the foundations of electromagnetic theory as viewed from the standpoint of the special theory of relativity. The special theory of relativity gives the most basic foundation that underlies all physical laws in inertial systems of reference. Inertial systems of reference are those systems of reference for which the law of inertia holds. According to the law of inertia or Newton’s first law, a material particle in an inertial system of reference, which is free from external influences, will stay at rest or continue to move in a straight line with constant velocity. Before we start to discuss the essential parts of relativistic electromagnetic theory, we briefly summarize the historical background from which the special theory of relativity emerged.