What topics do I need to study electromagnetism on the quantum scale?

Question

1. What topics do I need to study (in order) so that I can study electromagnetics on the quantum scale?

2. What is the name of the discipline studying electromagnetism on the quantum scale?

3. Do I need to know nuclear physics?

Answer 1

Starting from scratch I would propose an order of topics to study as follows:

• Kinematics (motion)
• Dynamics (forces)
• Rotational kinematics and dynamics
• Collisions (momentum and impulse)
• Vibrations and waves
• Thermodynamics
• Electricity (DC)
• Electricity (AC)
• Magnetic fields and forces
• Electromagnetic waves
• Light (optics, photons)
• Quantum mechanics

Nuclear physics and all about atoms and molecules are good topics to continue with from here. But not necessary to get the hang of electromagnetism.

Get a book like University Physics by Young & Freedman. It is pedagogical gold for an eager physics student.