Theories of Relativity and Cosmology

Class(es): BS 8th, MSc 4th

Course Code(s): PHYS-408, PHYS-608

Credit Hours: 3

Introduction:

The aim of this course is to introduce students to theories of relativity and Cosmology. Relativity being an ancient concept was first introduced by Galileo as Galilean Relativity but it was applicable to mechanics only. Then Einstein came up with his Special Theory of relativity which was able to explain mechanics as well as many troubling facts of electricity and magnetism. Special relativity as its name suggests is a special case which does not include gravity. Einstein almost a decade later published his General Theory of Relativity which descibes and explains gravity. Understanding of Einstein's Theories of Relativity leads to Cosmology i.e. origin, evolution and fate of the universe.

Learning Outcomes:

To understand the two postulates of special relativity.
To understand how the principle of relativity leads to time dilation, length contraction, principle of Simultaneity and doppler's effect.
To explore relativistic energy and momentum.
To understand the fundamental principles of General Relativity that will lead to the understanding of cosmology.

Recommended Books:

Dynamics and Relativity by J. R. Forshaw and A. G. Smith. John Wiley and Sons (2009).
Relativity Demystified D. MacMohan Mc Graw-Hill (2006).
Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell By A. Zee
Introduction to Electrodynamics by David J. Griffiths.
Introduction to Cosmology, by J.V.Narlikar, Cambridge University Press, (1989).