Flat and Curved Space-Times

ISBN-13: 9780198506560 / Angielski / Miękka / 2001 / 392 str.

George Ellis; Ruth M. Williams

Opis

The present book explains special relativity and the basics of general relativity from a geometric viewpoint. Space-time geometry is emphasized 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.

Recenzje

" 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"

O autorze

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