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Physics
5910 Special Topics: General Relativity
Physics
6910: Relativity I
Fall 2013
SER 122, 1:00-1:50 MWF
Instructors:
Teaching is shared between three faculty members. The
approximate division of topics and times is as follows:
|
Jim
Wheeler |
SER
228 |
MW
Jan 7 – Feb 27 |
Mathematical
foundations |
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Shane
Larson |
SER
236 |
MW
Mar 4 – Apr 26 |
Applications
to stars and cosmology |
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Charles
Torre |
SER
232 |
Fri
Jan 7 – Apr 26 |
MPL
software |
Office hours: By
appointment
Text: A
First Course in General Relativity, by Bernard Schutz
Second Edition, Cambridge
University Press
Subjects
treated:
á
Review of Special Relativity
á
Mathematical methods of General Relativity
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The General Theory of Relativity
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Applications of General Relativity to black holes and
cosmology
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Use of MPL software for geometric calculations
Goals:
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Learn the mathematical tools required for by special
relativity and general relativity, including basics of tensor analysis and
differential geometry.
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Be able to compute and use the metric, connection and
curvature of a Riemannian geometry.
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Understand the physical content of general relativity,
including the effect of matter on the geometry of spacetime and the effect of
geometry on the motion of matter.
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Show an understanding of the application of general
relativity to the description of collapsed stars and cosmology.
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Become familiar with the various experimental tests of
general relativity.
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Use Maple subroutines to compute geometric properties.
Grading
Your
grade will be based on the following weighting of course elements:
Homework: 30%
Midterm
I: 30%
Total: 100%
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Students with
ADA-documented physical, sensory, emotional or medical impairments may be
eligible for reasonable accommodations. Veterans may also be eligible for
services. All accommodations are coordinated through the Disability Resource
Center (DRC) in Room 101 of the University Inn, (435)797-2444 voice,
(435)797-0740 TTY, (435)797-2444 VP, or toll free at 1-800-259-2966. Please
contact the DRC as early in the semester as possible. Alternate format
materials (Braille, large print or digital) are available with advance
notice. |
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