Flat and Curved Space-times - Hardcover

Ellis, George; Williams, Ruth M.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0198511647 ISBN 13: 9780198511649

Publisher: Clarendon Press, 1988

Synopsis

An explanation of special relativity and the foundations of general relativity theory 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 generalized 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. Appendices enable the advanced student to master the application of 4 tensors to the relativistic study of energy and momentum, and of electromagnetism.

About this title

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 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

About this edition

• Publisher: Clarendon Press
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 0198511647
• ISBN 13: 9780198511649
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 360