The Large Scale Structure of Space-Time (Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics) - Hardcover

Hawking, S. W.; Ellis, G. F. R.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521200164 ISBN 13: 9780521200165

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1973

Synopsis

Einstein's General Theory of Relativity leads to two remarkable predictions: first, that the ultimate destiny of many massive stars is to undergo gravitational collapse and to disappear from view, leaving behind a 'black hole' in space; and secondly, that there will exist singularities in space-time itself. These singularities are places where space-time begins or ends, and the presently known laws of physics break down. They will occur inside black holes, and in the past are what might be construed as the beginning of the universe. To show how these predictions arise, the authors discuss the General Theory of Relativity in the large. Starting with a precise formulation of the theory and an account of the necessary background of differential geometry, the significance of space-time curvature is discussed and the global properties of a number of exact solutions of Einstein's field equations are examined. The theory of the causal structure of a general space-time is developed, and is used to study black holes and to prove a number of theorems establishing the inevitability of singualarities under certain conditions. A discussion of the Cauchy problem for General Relativity is also included in this 1973 book.

About this title

Book Description:

This 1973 book discusses Einstein's General Theory of Relativity and its two remarkable predictions: first, that the ultimate destiny of many massive stars is to undergo gravitational collapse and to disappear from view, leaving behind a 'black hole' in space; and secondly, that there will exist singularities in space-time itself.

Review:

"...an excellent set of reviews of some of the most exciting areas of research in gravitational physics...I have not found a comparable compilation of valuable information on the current status of general relativity." American Scientist

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1973
• ISBN 10: 0521200164
• ISBN 13: 9780521200165
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 400