First Principles of Cosmology

A concise, exciting introduction to cosmology with an emphasis on the basic principles. It is unique from the standpoint of clarity and simplicity of explanations using the application of mechanics, thermodynamics and particle physics to questions on the universe as a whole. It advances to include an emphasis on general equations of state, unifying the treatment of dust, radiation, cosmological constant, or exotic components, the treatment of inhomogeneities ("clumpy universe") and their important effects on observations.

'Has a clean, incisive edge...an authority and reader-friendliness that should win it a wide following'. (Prof. T Ferris, University of California at Berkeley)

A concise, exciting introduction to cosmology with an emphasis on the basic principles. It is unique from the standpoint of clarity and simplicity of explanations - using abundant analogies and application of mechanics, thermodynamics and particle physics - to questions on the universe as a whole. It advances to include an emphasis on general equations of state, unifying the treatment of dust, radiation, cosmological constant, or exotic components, the treatment of inhomogeneities ("clumpy universe") and their important effects on observations.

Key Features:

- A concise and clear explanation of the basic principles
- Includes a clear and detailed presentation of the Big Bang cosmological model (as well as alternatives), to encourage critical appreciation of the significance of new discoveries
- Contains over 70 exercises on two levels of difficulty
- Supported by a Teacher's Guide for lecturers, including solutions and project suggestions
- An electronic expansion of main text and Teacher's Guide linked to World Wide Web

Written for advanced undergraduates and graduates of astronomy and astrophysics.

Dr Eric Linder is a Senior Research Associate at the University of Massachusetts and has taught at Imperial College, London, Stanford University, and New Mexico State University, USA.