Next: MC442 Differential Geometry
Up: Year 4
Previous: MC434 Time Dependent Partial
MC435 General Relativity
| Credits: 20 |
Convenor: Dr. M. D. Dampier |
Semester: 2 |
| Prerequisites: |
essential: MC223, MC224 |
|
| Assessment: |
Regular coursework: 10% |
Three hour exam: 90% |
| Lectures: |
36 |
Classes: |
10 |
| Tutorials: |
none |
Private Study: |
104 |
| Labs: |
none |
Seminars: |
none |
| Project: |
none |
Other: |
none |
| Total: |
150 |
|
|
Course Description
The general theory of relativity is one of the greatest achievements of
scientific thought and remains one of our fundamental tools for understanding
the physical universe. Founded in 1915 by Einstein, the theory develops
the idea of special relativity to include situations where gravitation
becomes important and and leads to some of the most surprising results
of twentieth century science. The course develops the
theory using classical mathematical tools. (Students taking the Differential
Geometry module MC442 will find that the General Relativity course
complements it well.)
Aims
This course aims to provide an understanding of the basic principles of the
theory and the ability to use those principles to solve problems. It is also
an aim that at the end of the course student will be in a position to
read advanced texts in the subject and be in a position to pursue
postgraduate studies in the field including its astrophysical
applications.
Objectives
To be able to use the geometrical ideas of curvature and geodesics to
solve problems relevant to the theory of general relativity.
To be able to use the Schwarzschild and other metrics to solve
problems involving particle orbits and light rays.
To be able to solve simple problems on free fall, collapse, and black
holes.
To be able to use the Robertson-Walker metrics to discuss simple
cosmological ideas.
Syllabus
1. Founding the theory: space-time, curvature, gravitation.
2. Testing the theory: spherical symmetry, planetary motion, light rays.
3. Using the theory: black holes, the expanding universe, the 'big bang'.
Transferable Skills
Understanding and being able to use the geometrical approach to
modelling real world problems.
Problem solving in applied mathematical contexts.
Reading list
Recommended:
J.Foster and J.D.Nightingale,
Short course in General Relativity,
Springer.
Background:
D.J.Raine,
The Isotropic Universe,
Adam Hilger.
Details of Assessment
The final assessment of this module will consist of 10% coursework
and 90% from a three hour examination during the Summer exam
period. The 10% coursework contribution will be determined by students'
solutions to coursework problems. The examination paper will contain
6 questions with full marks on the paper obtainable from 4 complete answers.
Next: MC442 Differential Geometry
Up: Year 4
Previous: MC434 Time Dependent Partial
S. J. Ambler
11/20/1999