The Scalar-Tensor Theory of Gravitation

A pedagogical exposition of the cosmological constant problem, emphasizing the scalar-tensor theory of gravitation.

Yasunori Fujii (Author), Kei-ichi Maeda (Author)

9780521037525, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 12 July 2007

260 pages, 30 b/w illus. 2 tables
24.4 x 17 x 1.4 cm, 0.42 kg

'… a clear and concise introduction to the theoretical ideas and developments …' Zentralblatt MATH

The scalar-tensor theory of gravitation is one of the most popular alternatives to Einstein's theory of gravitation. This book provides a clear and concise introduction to the theoretical ideas and developments, exploring scalar fields and placing them in context with a discussion of Brans-Dicke theory. Topics covered include the cosmological constant problem, time variability of coupling constants, higher dimensional space-time, branes and conformal transformations. The authors emphasize the physical applications of the scalar-tensor theory and thus provide a pedagogical overview of the subject, keeping more mathematically detailed sections for the appendices. This book is suitable for graduate courses in cosmology, gravitation and relativity. It will also provide a valuable reference for researchers.

Preface
Conventions and notation
1. Introduction
2. The prototype Brans-Dicke model
3. Conformal transformation
4. Cosmology with ?
5. Models of an accelerating universe
6. Quantum effects
Appendices
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Relativity physics [PHR]