Flat and Curved Space-Times - Hardcover

Ellis, George F. R.; Williams, Ruth M.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0198511647 ISBN 13: 9780198511649

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1988

Synopsis

This text explains special relativity and the foundations of general relativity theory in terms understandable to undergraduates in mathematics and physics coming to the subject for the first time. Space-time geometry is emphasized throughout, providing a basic 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 this leads to a derivation of the Lorentz Transformation as a way of unifying these results. The invariant interval of flat space-time is compared to that of curved space-times, and the basic properties of simple cosmological models are presented. Appendices enable the advanced student to master the application of four tensors to the relativistic study of energy, momentum and electromagnetism.

About this title

About the Author:

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

Review:

" G.Ellis and R. Williams two seasoned and wellknown Relativists, have done a super job in suceeding to present " just the facts" and at the same time make their book a pleasure to read, even for motivated, non-experts" * European Astronomical Society Newsletter *

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 0198511647
• ISBN 13: 9780198511649
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 368