An Introduction to Relativity

Introduction to relativity, ideal as part of undergraduate and graduate courses in physics, astrophysics and applied mathematics.

Jayant V. Narlikar (Author)

9780521735612, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 28 January 2010

372 pages, 99 b/w illus. 180 exercises
24.5 x 17.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.73 kg

'… an excellent book, which researchers in relativity will treasure for its historical perspective.' Classical and Quantum Gravity

General relativity is now an essential part of undergraduate and graduate courses in physics, astrophysics and applied mathematics. This simple, user-friendly introduction to relativity is ideal for a first course in the subject. Beginning with a comprehensive but simple review of special relativity, the book creates a framework from which to launch the ideas of general relativity. After describing the basic theory, it moves on to describe important applications to astrophysics, black hole physics, and cosmology. Several worked examples, and numerous figures and images, help students appreciate the underlying concepts. There are also 180 exercises which test and develop students' understanding of the subject. The textbook presents all the necessary information and discussion for an elementary approach to relativity. Password-protected solutions to the exercises are available to instructors at www.cambridge.org/9780521735612.

1. The special theory of relativity
2. From special to the general theory of relativity
3. Vectors and tensors
4. Covariant differentiation
5. Curvature of spacetime
6. Spacetime symmetries
7. Physics in curved spacetime
8. Einstein's equations
9. The Schwarzschild solutions
10. Experimental tests of general relativity
11. Gravitational radiation
12. Relativistic astrophysics
13. Black holes
14. The expanding universe
15. Friedmann models
16. The early universe
17. Observational cosmology
18. Beyond relativity
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Astrophysics [PHVB], Relativity physics [PHR], Gravity [PHDV], Cosmology & the universe [PGK]