Flat and Curved Space-Times

2. Auflage 2000
ISBN: 978-0-19-850657-7
Verlag: Oxford University Press

Buch, Englisch, 386 Seiten, Print PDF, Format (B × H): 162 mm x 241 mm, Gewicht: 799 g

The present book explains special relativity and the basics of general relativity from a geometric viewpoint. Space-time geometry is emphasised throughout, and provides the basis of understanding of the special relativity effects of time dilation, length contraction, and the relativity of simultaneity. Bondi's K-calculus is introduced as a simple means of calculating the magnitudes of these effects, and leads to a derivation of the Lorentz transformation as a way of unifying these results. The invariant interval of flat space-time is generalised to that of curved space-times, and leads to an understanding of the basic properties of simple cosmological models and of the collapse of a star to form a black hole. The appendices enable the advanced student to master the application of four-tensors to the relativistic study of energy and momentum, and of electromagnetism. In addition, this new edition contains up-to-date information on black holes, gravitational collapse, and cosmology.

Autoren/Hrsg.

Ellis, G. F. R.

Williams, R. M.

Fachgebiete

• Technische Wissenschaften Technik Allgemein Physik, Chemie für Ingenieure
• Naturwissenschaften Astronomie Kosmologie, Urknalltheorie
• Mathematik | Informatik Mathematik Numerik und Wissenschaftliches Rechnen Angewandte Mathematik, Mathematische Modelle
• Naturwissenschaften Physik Quantenphysik Relativität, Gravitation
• Mathematik | Informatik Mathematik Numerik und Wissenschaftliches Rechnen Computeranwendungen in der Mathematik
• Naturwissenschaften Astronomie Astrophysik
• Naturwissenschaften Physik Angewandte Physik Astrophysik

Inhaltsverzeichnis

- Preface to second edition

- Preface

- Introduction

- 1: Space-time diagrams and the foundation of special relativity

- 2: Fundamentals of measurement

- 3: Measurements in flat space-time

- 4: The Lorentz transformation and the invariant interval

- 5: Curved space-times

- 6: Spherical and stellar collapse

- 7: Simple cosmological models

- Afterword

- Appendices

- A. Line integrals

- B. Four-vectors and relativistic dynamics

- C. Four-tensors, electromagnetism, and energy-momentum conservation

- Index

Über Autor(innen)

G.F.R. Ellis, Professor of Mathematics, University of Cape Town, South Africa. R.M. Williams, Assistant Director of Research, Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge