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.
- ISBN10 0198511647
- ISBN13 9780198511649
- Publish Date 1 September 1988
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 4 December 1992
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Oxford University Press
- Imprint Clarendon Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 360
- Language English