Introduction to General Relativity

Catalog description

This course introduces students to General Relativity, one of the greatest triumphs of contemporary physics. It is central to our understanding of myriad astrophysical phenomena, from stars and blackholes to galaxies to the origins of our universe. In this course, students will explore the physical and mathematical basis of General Relativity and will learn to describe and predict the observational consequences of this radical idea. Topics will include tensor calculus, curved spacetime metrics, the Einstein Equation, gravitational waves, blackholes, and elements of cosmology. Prerequisite Course(s): Prerequisites: PHYS 225, MATH 350 Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3