Relativity physics Books

Book SynopsisThe book explores the origin and fate of the universe through seven lectures by a brilliant physicist, discussing theories of existence, black holes, Big Bang, and a multi-dimensional origin with no-boundary condition. Various historical ideologies and scientific theories are introduced in a simple and witty manner.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewOne of Science Friday's Best Science Books of 2015, chosen by Maria Popova One of The Independent.ie Irish Writers' Top Reads 2015 One of Brainpickings' The Best Science Books of 2015 "The Physicist and the Philosopher is an extraordinarily rich and wide-ranging work. Canales has rescued from near oblivion a fascinating, highly significant debate that is still relevant in an age which has begun uneasily to question the hegemony of science and its uncontrollable child, technology."--John Banville, London Review of Books "In illuminating a historic 1922 debate between Albert Einstein and Henri Bergson about the nature of time, Canales marks a turning point in the power of philosophy to influence science."--Publishers Weekly "Sparks--both incendiary and illuminating--fly from the collision of two giants!"--Booklist, starred review "This fascinating, scholarly, readable look at physics and epistemology will interest readers of science, history, philosophy, and biography."--Library Journal, starred review "Whether or not you agree, this humane and melancholy account of how two talents misunderstood each other will linger in the mind."--New Scientist "[Canales] weaves a tale around Europe and to America... [Her] subject raises important core philosophical issues, like the scope of philosophy itself."--Michael Ruse, The Chronicle of Higher Education "This fascinating book traces a debate about the nature of time... Canales has done a masterful job of research and explication. Her account of the debate is lively, the background of it is interesting, and the debate's ramifications as filtered through other minds are downright exciting. Anyone interested in physics or philosophy will have a field day with this book."--Kelly Cherry, The Smart Set "Canales does sterling work investigating these engagements ... [A] stimulating book."--Graham Farmelo, Nature "In The Physicist and the Philosopher, Canales recounts how Bergson challenged Einstein's theories, arguing that time is not a fourth dimension definable by scientists but a 'vital impulse,' the source of creativity. It was an incendiary topic at the time, and it shaped a split between science and humanities that persisted for decades--though Einstein was generally seen as the winner and Bergson is all but forgotten."--Nancy Szokan, Washington Post "A book remarkable both for its profound research and for its elegance in presentation. Intellectual history should always be so accessible."--Benjamin Franklin Martin, Key Reporter "[General and professional readers] will learn much from a study that is accessible and edifying to a great diversity of readers."--Choice "The Physicist and the Philosopher ... is at least three things: a monument to precise scholarship, an exemplar of logical clarity, and a fine example of excellent writing. I have rarely learned more from a book."--Peter A.Y. Gunter, Physics in Perspective "Brilliant."--James Gleick, Bits in the Ether "A masterwork of cultural forensics."--Maria Popova, Brainpickings "It's hard to imagine that any single author will ever outdo this account of the recent history of our concepts of time."--Chris Nunn, Journal of Consciousness Studies "A gripping critique of Einstein's thought and a convincing rehabilitation of Bergsonian time, freed from the tyranny of mathematics."--Hilary Davies, The TabletTable of ContentsPreface vii PART 1. THE DEBATE CHAPTER 1 Untimely 3 CHAPTER 2 "More Einsteinian than Einstein" 16 CHAPTER 3 Science or Philosophy? 38 PART 2. THE MEN CHAPTER 4 The Twin Paradox 53 CHAPTER 5 Bergson's Achilles' Heel 62 CHAPTER 6 Worth Mentioning? 73 CHAPTER 7 Bergson Writes to Lorentz 87 CHAPTER 8 Bergson Meets Michelson 98 CHAPTER 9 The Debate Spreads 114 CHAPTER 10 Back from Paris 131 CHAPTER 11 Two Months Later 139 CHAPTER 12 Logical Positivism 153 CHAPTER 13 The Immediate Aftermath 162 CHAPTER 14 An Imaginary Dialogue 172 CHAPTER 15 "Full-Blooded" Time 179 CHAPTER 16 The Previous Spring 195 CHAPTER 17 The Church 203 CHAPTER 18 The End of Universal Time 218 CHAPTER 19 Quantum Mechanics 230 PART 3. THE THINGS CHAPTER 20 Things 241 CHAPTER 21 Clocks and Wristwatches 252 CHAPTER 22 Telegraph, Telephone, and Radio 265 CHAPTER 23 Atoms and Molecules 274 CHAPTER 24 Einstein's Films: Reversible 283 CHAPTER 25 Bergson's Movies: Out of Control 292 CHAPTER 26 Microbes and Ghosts 303 CHAPTER 27 One New Point: Recording Devices 315 PART 4. THE WORDS CHAPTER 28 Bergson's Last Comments 327 CHAPTER 29 Einstein's Last Thoughts 337 Postface 349 Acknowledgments 359 Notes 363 Bibliography 423 Index 451

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisEinstein''s theory of general relativity is a cornerstone of modern physics. It also touches upon a wealth of topics that students find fascinating black holes, warped spacetime, gravitational waves, and cosmology. Now reissued by Cambridge University Press, this ground-breaking text helped to bring general relativity into the undergraduate curriculum, making it accessible to virtually all physics majors. One of the pioneers of the ''physics-first'' approach to the subject, renowned relativist James B. Hartle, recognized that there is typically not enough time in a short introductory course for the traditional, mathematics-first, approach. In this text, he provides a fluent and accessible physics-first introduction to general relativity that begins with the essential physical applications and uses a minimum of new mathematics. This market-leading text is ideal for a one-semester course for undergraduates, with only introductory mechanics as a prerequisite.Trade Review'Jim Hartle's Gravity is a gem that offers a novel approach to general relativity pedagogy. It is written for senior level undergraduate physics students, but I expect it will be useful for a broader audience. The writing throughout is clear, methodical, and elegant, spiced with the author's characteristic dry sense of humor. His book is a fine contribution that extends the range of pedagogical choices available to instructors.' Jennie Traschen, Physics Today'Teaching general relativity at undergraduate level inevitably brings a dilemma: [whether] to be rigorous from the beginning, developing all the tools necessary to do it but risk discouraging the student with difficult new mathematics or to emphasize the physical aspects but risk being so qualitative that the full content of the theory cannot be grasped by the student. Hartle solves this dilemma in a quite consistent way. The flavour of the physics which relies on general relativity theory is preserved and, at the same time, the reader can, at the end, perform calculations by himself. What more could we ask for in an introductory book on this difficult and fascinating subject?' Júlio C. Fabris, Classical and Quantum Gravity'This is an excellent introduction to general relativity with a hands-on approach that is based on physical situations of interest like black holes and the expanding universe. It fills a real gap in the literature for an undergraduate or graduate course.' Stephen Hawking, University of Cambridge'… the best elementary introduction to general relativity ever written. It brings relativity fully within the grasp of undergraduates and should trigger the creation of general relativity courses at colleges and universities around the world.' Kip Thorne, California Institute of Technology'Hartle brings the beauty and excitement of relativistic gravitation to the appropriate undergraduate level via a remarkably accessible development. He uses many more familiar concepts to produce a broad understanding of the basic structure and applications of the theory. The pedagogy is remarkably effective.' Robert V. Wagoner, Stanford University'Hartle is an established master of the field and his competence assures that this book is authoritative. The book provides a striking combination of classical general relativity theory and the latest modern observational results.' Edwin F. Taylor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology'… a truly novel approach. With Hartle's presentation, relativity is more than its dry mathematics; instead it is an elegant, curious, and intellectually vibrant subject that is central to many of the most intriguing questions in physics and astrophysics today.' Marc Kamionkowski, California Institute of Technology'This book should appeal to a new generation of physicists… It includes an excellent review of special relativity and provides a unified geometrical approach to both special and general relativity.' Hans Juergen Weber, University of Virginia'A very fine book by a leading expert. By concentrating on physical ideas and the very latest observational results, Hartle achieves his admirable aim of making general relativity accessible without relying on daunting mathematics. This book is likely to become a classic that every physics student should possess.' Jonathan Halliwell, Imperial College London'Professor Hartle is to be commended for writing such a fine and much needed introductory book on general relativity. With the right balance of physical ideas and mathematical details delivered in a clear style, this text will be welcomed.' Bei Lok Hu, University of Maryland'This book should make a major impact in undergraduate education. It is far clearer and more physically motivating than other texts. The exposition is at precisely the right level … clear worked examples and good problems make it especially useful.' Mike Hobson, University of Cambridge'… for decades, general relativity has largely been the purview of graduate students … Hartle's new book promises to change that. It provides an admirable overview of one of physics' most beautiful and increasingly relevant theories and can be understood with only a first mechanics class as a prerequisite. It should persuade many physics departments to offer general relativity as a routine part of the undergraduate curriculum.' Arthur Kosowsky, Rutgers University'… the ideal text for … an introductory course. In no other single text have I found all the up-to-date material that a modern physicist should know about gravity. At the same time, it is an excellent basis for more advanced study.' Dieter Brill, University of Maryland'This is probably my favourite book on GR at this level. It should appeal to those who also like the physics-first approach, and be accessible to those with an undergraduate-level understanding of mechanics.' Phillip Helbig, The ObservatoryTable of ContentsList of Boxes; Preface; Figure credits; Part I. Space and Time in Newtonian Physics and Special Relativity: 1. Gravitational physics; 2. Geometry as physics; 3. Space, time, and gravity in Newtonian physics; 4. Principles of special relativity; 5. Special relativistic mechanics. Part II. The Curved Spacetimes of General Relativity: 6. Gravity as geometry; 7. Description of curved spacetime; 8. Geodesics; 9. The geometry outside a spherical star; 10. Solar System tests of general relativity; 11. Relativistic gravity in action; 12. Gravitational collapse and black holes; 13. Astrophysical black holes; 14. A little rotation; 15. Rotating black holes; 16. Gravitational waves; 17. The universe observed; 18. Cosmological models; 19. Which universe and why?. Part III. The Einstein Equation: 20. A little more math; 21. Curvature and the Einstein equation; 22. The source of curvature; 23. Gravitational wave emission; 24. Relativistic stars; Appendix A. Units; Appendix B. Curvature quantities; Appendix C. Curvature and the Einstein equation; Appendix D. Pedagogical strategy; Bibliography; Index.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe third volume in Leonard Susskind's one-of-a-kind physics series cracks open Einstein's special relativity and field theory In the first two books in his wildly popular The Theoretical Minimum series, world-class physicist Leonard Susskind provided a brilliant first course in classical and quantum mechanics, offering readers not an oversimplified introduction, but the real thing - everything you need to start doing physics, and nothing more. Now, thankfully, Susskind and his former student Art Friedman are back, this time to introduce readers to special relativity and classical field theory. At last, waves, forces and particles will be demystified. Using their typical brand of relatively simple maths, enlightening sketches and the same fictional counterparts, Art and Lenny, Special Relativity and Classical Field Theory takes us on an enlightening journey through a world now governed by the laws of special relativity. Starting in their new watering hole,Trade ReviewWitty and insightful ... I found it thrilling -- Robert P. Crease * Nature *This is quantum mechanics for real. This is the good stuff, the most mysterious aspects of how reality works, set out with crystalline clarity. If you want to know how physicists really think about the world, this book is the place to start -- Sean Carroll, physicist, California Institute of Technology * author of The Particle at the End of the Universe *

Read more less

Book SynopsisGeneral relativity, which lies at the heart of contemporary physics, has recently become the focus of a number of lively theoretical, experimental, and computational research programs. As a result, undergraduates have become increasingly excited to learn about the subject. A General Relativity Workbook is a textbook intended to support a one-semester upper division undergraduate course on general relativity. Through its unique workbook-based design, it enables students to develop a solid mastery of both the physics and the supporting tensor calculus by pushing (and guiding) them to work through the implications. Each chapter, which is designed to correspond to one class session, involves a short overview of the concepts without obscuring derivations or details, followed by a series of boxes that guide students through the process of working things out for themselves. This active-learning approach enables students to develop a more secure mastery of the material than more traditional approaches. More than 350 homework problems support further learning. This book more strongly emphasizes the physics than many of its competitors, and while it provides students a full grounding in the supporting mathematics (unlike certain other competitors), it introduces the mathematics gradually and in a completely physical context. Ancillaries To facilitate self-study, a complimentary Online Student Manual with Hints and Answers for Selected Problems is available online. A detailed Instructor's Manual is available to adopting professors. Trade Review'Moore's workbook makes General Relativity accessible to undergraduates who have seen little or none of the underlying mathematical framework. This is achieved not by watering down the contents, but rather by systematically guiding readers to work everything out themselves until they own the concepts and the mathematical techniques. It is indeed a workbook, which I trust will be a great success.' - Sergio Picozzi, University of Maryland, USA 'With its clean organization, its direct and clear prose, and especially its pedagogically effective workbook format, Moore's A General Relativity Workbook may quickly become the new standard for upper division undergraduate courses in General Relativity.' -John Mallinckrodt, Cal Poly Pomona, USA 'Not since Misner, Wheeler & Thorne has there been such a useful resource.' - Paul McKenna, Glasgow Caledonian University, UKTable of Contents1 Introduction 2 Review of Special Relativity 3 Four-Vectors 4 Index Notation 5 Arbitrary Coordinates 6 Tensor Equations 7 Maxwell’s Equations 8 Geodesics 9 The Schwarzschild Metric 10 Particle Orbits 11 Precession of the Perihelion 12 Photon Orbits 13 Deflection of Light 14 Event Horizon 15 Alternative Coordinates 16 Black Hole Thermodynamics 17 The Absolute Gradient 18 Geodesic Deviation 19 The Riemann Tensor 20 The Stress-Energy Tensor 21 The Einstein Equation 22 Interpreting the Equation 23 The Schwarzschild Solution 24 The Universe Observed 25 A Metric for the Cosmos 26 Evolution of the Universe 27 Cosmic Implications 28 The Early Universe 29 CMB Fluctuations and Inflation 30 Gauge Freedom 31 Detecting Gravitational Waves 32 Gravitational Wave Energy 33 Generating Gravitational Waves 34 Gravitational Wave Astronomy 35 Gravitomagnetism 36 The Kerr Metric 37 Particle Orbits in Kerr Spacetime 38 Ergoregion and Horizon 39 Negative-Energy Orbits Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisIntroduction to General Relativity and Cosmology gives undergraduate students an overview of the fundamental ideas behind the geometric theory of gravitation and spacetime. Through pointers on how to modify and generalise Einstein's theory to enhance understanding, it provides a link between standard textbook content and current research in the field.Chapters present complicated material practically and concisely, initially dealing with the mathematical foundations of the theory of relativity, in particular differential geometry. This is followed by a discussion of the Einstein field equations and their various properties. Also given is analysis of the important Schwarzschild solutions, followed by application of general relativity to cosmology. Questions with fully worked answers are provided at the end of each chapter to aid comprehension and guide learning. This pared down textbook is specifically designed for new students looking for a workable, simple presentation of some of the key theories in modern physics and mathematics.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Mysterious Universe introduces the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics, theory of relativity, and cosmology to a novice in simple language. This concise book deals with deep issues related to the mysteries of modern physics. Both quantum mechanics and relativity are highly mathematical subjects and are not easily accessible. In 2020, the author wrote a book Quantum Mechanics for Beginners with the aim of introducing the fundamentals of quantum theory to someone with elementary knowledge of physics and algebra. Here he goes one step further and introduces these ideas to someone with no prior knowledge of physics and mathematics. In the first part of the book, topics like the wave-particle duality, the probabilistic nature of the measurement, the possibility of multiple universes, and the nature of reality are discussed. In the second part, Einstein''s special and general theories of relativity and their amazing and mind-boggling consequences are presented. The impact of the theory oTrade ReviewExplains deep and profound concepts in a very simple language. A marvelous book! * David M. Lee, Nobel Prize for Physics 1996 *In this amazing book, Zubairy manages to cover a very broad range of material on the laws that define our universe. He explains the conceptual foundations of quantum mechanics, the laws of the special and general theories of relativity, and the developments in the field of cosmology for both experts and novice in a clear and transparent manner. * Dudley Herschbach, Nobel Prize for Chemistry 1986 *A hundred years ago two overarching physical theories-Quantum Mechanics and Relativity-upended our understanding of the world, such that the implications and even meaning of these theories are still controversial. This book presents many of these implications for a lay but interested reader, in a clear and lucid manner. * Bill Unruh FRS, Professor at the University of British Columbia *Quantum mechanics and Einstein's theories of relativity are among the most important achievements of human intellect ever. We discovered what happens inside an atom and a nucleus and it increased our understanding of the evolution of the universe. These ideas are not easily accessible to someone without a background in physics and mathematics. A Mysterious Universe brilliantly brings these laws of nature and their consequences together, explaining deep and profound concepts in very simple language. Covering vast materials, it not only includes the extraordinary laws of quantum mechanics and laws of relativity, but also the astonishing developments in the field of cosmology in such a concise and accessible way. The laws that govern this universe are explained with many simple and understandable examples. It's a marvellous book! * David M. Lee, Nobel Prize for Physics 1996 *

Read more less

Book SynopsisEinstein said that the most incomprehensible thing about the universe is that it is comprehensible. But was he right? Can the quantum theory of fields and Einstein's general theory of relativity, the two most accurate and successful theories in all of physics, be united into a single quantum theory of gravity? Can quantum and cosmos ever be combineTrade Review"This elegant little volume provides a clear account of two approaches to some of the greatest unsolved problems of gravitation and cosmology."--John Barrow, New Scientist "A debate between Hawking and Penrose ... raises the reader's expectations of a lively interaction, and this is fully bourne in the transcribed discussion... Hawking's effervescent sense of humour frequently enlivens the text."--Joseph Silk, Times Higher Education Praise for Princeton's previous editions:: "If there were such a thing as the World Professional Heavyweight Theory Debating Society, this would be the title bout."--Christopher Dornan, Toronto Globe & Mail Praise for Princeton's previous editions: "This is a very courteous and intellectually stimulating exchange between two first-rate minds."--Library Journal Praise for Princeton's previous editions: "This is an interesting book to read now, but it promises to become an even more interesting book for future generations of physicists."--Robert M. Wald, Science Praise for Princeton's previous editions: "As well as providing an accurate scientific record of the lectures, the text has lost none of the drama of the original occasion, which stemmed from the almost antithetical views of the two protagonists on almost everything except the classical theory of general relativity."--Gary Gibbons, Physics World Praise for Princeton's previous editions: "I found great satisfaction and not inconsiderable benefit from my efforts... The clarity and brilliance of Hawking's logic would break through in simple straightforward terms... This provided a real thrill."--Lucy Horwitz, Boston Book ReviewTable of ContentsForeword by Michael Atiyah vii Acknowledgments ix CHAPTER ONE Classical Theory, Stephen Hawking 3 CHAPTER TWO Structure of Spacetime Singularities, Roger Penrose 27 CHAPTER THREE Quantum Black Holes, Stephen Hawking 37 CHAPTER FOUR Quantum Theory and Spacetime, Roger Penrose 61 CHAPTER FIVE Quantum Cosmololgy, Stephen Hawking 75 CHAPTER SIX The Twistor View of Spacetime, Roger Penrose 105 CHAPTER SEVEN The Debate, Stephen Hawking and Roger Penrose 121 AFTERWORD TO THE 2010 EDITION The Debate Continues, Stephen Hawking and Roger Penrose 139 References 143

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"This text is another great example of the 'In a Nutshell' series of science books from Princeton University Press. . . . The book offers an abundance of worked out examples and many interesting end-of-chapter problems. This is a text that is obviously designed for the advanced undergraduate or graduate physics student--these groups of individuals will find the work an excellent introduction to the standard model." * Choice *Table of ContentsPreface for Instructors ix Acknowledgments xi Introduction xiii Table of Symbols xv 1 Special Relativity 1 1.1 Galileo 2 1.2 Vectors and Tensors 3 1.3 Foundations of Relativity 13 1.4 Spacetime 15 1.5 Relativistic Dynamics 19 2 Scalar Fields 24 2.1 The Principle of Least Action 25 2.2 Continuous Fields 29 2.3 The Klein-Gordon Equation 32 2.4 Which Lagrangians Are Allowed? 33 2.5 Complex Scalar Fields 35 3 Noether's Theorem 43 3.1 Conserved Quantities for Particles 44 3.2 Noether's First Theorem 46 3.3 The Stress-Energy Tensor 49 3.4 Angular Momentum 52 3.5 Electric Charge 53 3.6 Digression: Inflation 54 4 Symmetry 61 4.1 What Groups Are 62 4.2 Finite Groups 63 4.3 Lie Groups 66 4.4 SU(2) 70 4.5 SU(3) 74 5 The Dirac Equation 79 5.1 Relativity and Quantum Mechanics 80 5.2 Solutions to the Dirac Equation 86 5.3 The Adjoint Spinor 88 5.4 Coordinate Transformations 90 5.5 Conserved Currents 93 5.6 Discrete Transforms 97 5.7 Quantum Free-Field Theory 100 6 Electromagnetism 109 6.1 A Toy Model of Electromagnetism 109 6.2 Gauge Transformations 112 6.3 Interpreting the Electromagnetic Lagrangian 116 6.4 Solutions to the Classical Free Field 122 6.5 The Low-Energy Limit 123 6.6 Looking Forward 126 7 Quantum Electrodynamics 129 7.1 Particle Decay 130 7.2 Scattering 140 7.3 Feynman Rules for the Toy Scalar Theory 148 7.4 QED 153 8 The Weak Interaction 164 8.1 Leptons 165 8.2 Massive Mediators 168 8.3 SU(2) 171 8.4 Helicity 177 8.5 Feynman Rules for the Weak Interaction 180 9 Electroweak Unification 184 9.1 Leptons and Quarks 184 9.2 Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking 192 9.3 The Higgs Mechanism 195 9.4 Higgs-Fermion Interactions 199 9.5 A Reflection on Free Parameters 202 10 Particle Mixing 205 10.1 Quarks 207 10.2 Neutrinos 216 10.3 Neutrino Masses 222 11 The Strong Interaction 229 11.1 SU(3) 229 11.2 Renormalization 238 11.3 Asymptotic Freedom 245 12 Beyond the Standard Model 253 12.1 Free Parameters 253 12.2 Grand Unified Theories 255 12.3 Supersymmetry 259 12.4 The Strong CP Problem 264 12.5 Some Open Questions 266 Appendix A Spinors and c-Matrices 271 Appendix B Decays and Cross Sections 274 Appendix C Feynman Rules 277 Appendix D Groups 281 Bibliography 283 Index 291

Read more less

Book SynopsisMotion is always relative to some thing. Is this thing a concrete body like the earth, is it an abstract space, or is it an imagined frame? Do the laws of physics depend on the choice of reference? It there a choice for which the laws are simplest? Is this choice unique? Is there a physical cause for the choice made? These questions traverse the history of modern physics from Galileo to Einstein. The answers involved Galilean relativity, Newton''s absolute space, the purely relational concepts of Descartes, Leibniz, and Mach, and many forgotten uses of relativity principles in mechanics, optics, and electrodynamics - until the relativity theories of Poincaré, Einstein, Minkowksi, and Laue radically redefined space and time to satisfy universal kinds of relativity. Accordingly, this book retraces the emergence of relativity principles in early modern mechanics, documents their constructive use in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century mechanics, optics, and electrodynamics, and gives a wellTrade ReviewThis book is not only an accurate history of the physical relativity principles of motion during the last three hundred years, it is also an important book about the cognitive relativity of scientists' understanding of issues that once were challenging but which present day physicists consider commonsense. * Jan Faye, Metascience *Students and professionals will benefit from access to this unique work by an accomplished researcher. * A Spero, CHOICE *As an exercise in long-term history, it demonstrates the connectivity of issues and approaches across several centuries, despite enormous changes in context and culture. As an account of the genesis of relativity theories, it brings unprecedented clarity and fullness by broadening the spectrum of resources on which the principal actors drew. * zb Math Open *This book is not only an accurate history of the physical relativity principles of motion during the last three hundred years, it is also an important book about the cognitive relativity of scientists' understanding of issues that once were challenging but which present-day physicists consider commonsense. * Jan Faye, University of Copenhagen, Metascience *Truly excellent and fills an important gap in the research landscape on relativity. * Juergen Renn, Max Planck Institute for the History of Science, Berlin *Well thought out and could become the definitive work that connects the developments pertinent to relativity from the 17th century to the present. * John D. Norton, University of Pittsburgh *This first rate work pulls together many historical scientific strands, and is certain to initiate a lively discussion. * Diana Kormos-Buchwald, Caltech *Table of Contents1: Rethinking motion in the seventeenth century 2: Deriving Newton's second law from relativity principles 3: The space-time-inertia tangle 4: The optics of moving bodies 5: The electrodynamics of moving bodies 6: Poincaré's relativity theory 7: The relativity theory of Einstein, Minkowski, and Laue 8: From Riemann to Ricci 9: Mostly Einstein: To general relativity 10: Mesh and measure in early general relativity 11: Epilogue

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"This authoritative centenary edition is a fitting tribute to Einstein’s efforts to make his concepts accessible—in turn, helping to raise the profile of basic science and modern physics on a global scale."---Mary Craig, Nature

Read more less

Book SynopsisINSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER?Most appealing... technical accuracy and lightness of tone... Impeccable.??Wall Street Journal?A porthole into another world.??Scientific American?Brings science dissemination to a new level.??ScienceThe most trusted explainer of the most mind-boggling concepts pulls back the veil of mystery that has too long cloaked the most valuable building blocks of modern science. Sean Carroll, with his genius for making complex notions entertaining, presents in his uniquely lucid voice the fundamental ideas informing the modern physics of reality. Physics offers deep insights into the workings of the universe but those insights come in the form of equations that often look like gobbledygook. Sean Carroll shows that they are really like meaningful poems that can help us fly over sierras to discover a miraculous multidimensional landscape alive with radiant giants, warped space-time, and bewilderingly powerful forces. High school calculus is itself a centuries-old marvel as worthy of our gaze as the Mona Lisa. And it may come as a surprise the extent to which all our most cutting-edge ideas about black holes are built on the math calculus enables. No one else could so smoothly guide readers toward grasping the very equation Einstein used to describe his theory of general relativity. In the tradition of the legendary Richard Feynman lectures presented sixty years ago, this book is an inspiring, dazzling introduction to a way of seeing that will resonate across cultural and generational boundaries for many years to come.

Read more less

Book Synopsis#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The epic story of the greatest quest in all of science—the holy grail of physics that would explain the creation of the universe—from renowned theoretical physicist and author of The Future of the Mind and The Future of Humanity.When Newton discovered the law of gravity, he unified the rules governing the heavens and the Earth. Since then, physicists have been placing new forces into ever-grander theories. But perhaps the ultimate challenge is achieving a monumental synthesis of the two remaining theories—relativity and the quantum theory. This would be the crowning achievement of science, a profound merging of all the forces of nature into one beautiful, magnificent equation to unlock the deepest mysteries in science: What happened before the Big Bang? What lies on the other side of a black hole? Are there other universes and dimensions? Is time travel possible? Why are w

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis textbook provides students with a sound mathematical introduction coupled with an understanding of the physical insights needed to explore the subjectTable of Contents1: The Organisation of the Book A: Special Relativity 2: The k-Calculus 3: The Key Attributes of Special Relativity 4: The Elements of Relativistic Mechanics B: The Formalism of Tensors 5: Tensor Algebra 6: Tensor Calculus 7: Integration, Variation, and Symmetry C: General Relativity 8: Special Relativity Revisited 9: The Principles of General Relativity 10: The Field equations of General Relativity 11: General Relativity from a Variational Principle 12: The Energy-Momentum Tensor 13: The Structure of the Field Equations 14: The 3+1 and 2+2 Formalisms 15: The Schwarzschild sSlution 16: Classical Experimental Tests of General Relativity D: Black Holes 17: Non-Rotating Black Holes 18: Maximal Extension and Conformal Compactification 19: Charged Black Holes 20: Rotating Black Holes E: Gravitational Waves 21: Linearized Gravitational Waves and their Detection 22: Exact Gravitational Waves 23: Radiation from an Isolated Source F: Cosmology 24: Relativistic Cosmology 25: The Classical Cosmological Models 26: Modern Cosmology Answers to Exercises Selected Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Compulsively readable...Green threatens to do for string theory what Stephen Hawking did for holes'' New York TimesIn this international bestseller, Columbia University professor Brian Greene provides, in layman's terms, a comprehensive demystification of string theory. Greene, one of the world''s leading string theorists, peels away layers of the unknown, through introducing concepts from quantum mechanics to general relativity, to reveal a universe that consists of eleven dimensions. Accessible and enlightening, Greene''s inimitable blend of expert scientific insight and literary ingenuity makes The Elegant Universe an exhilarating read that brings us closer to understanding how our magnificent universe works. Utterly absorbing...a brilliant achievement. An accessible, equationless account of strings' Sunday TelegraphTrade ReviewDevelops one fresh new insight after another... In the great tradition of physicists writing for the masses, The Elegant Universe sets a standard that will be hard to beat * New York Times Book Review *Utterly absorbing...a brilliant achievement. An accessible, equationless account of strings, explaining why they are generating so much excitement among their devotees. Greene's achievement is to make us feel at home in the chillingly abstract world of strings and to convince us that we must take it seriously * Sunday Telegraph *As rewarding as it gets... A thrilling ride through a lovely landscape... A compelling human saga * Los Angeles Times Book Review *Compulsively readable...Green threatens to do for string theory what Stephen Hawking did for holes * New York *[A] tour-de-force of science writing...peels away layers of detail and reveals the stunning essence of cutting-edge physics -- Shing-Tung Yau, Harvard University; Fields Medalist, winner of the National Medal of Science

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn About Time: Einstein''s Unfinished Revolution Paul Davies confronts the puzzles and paradoxes of time that have bemused the world''s greatest thinkers throughout the ages.When Albert Einstein formulated his theory of relativity it brought about a revolution in our understanding of time, yet also presented a new set of mysteries. Einstein''s time can be warped, leading to bizarre possibilities such as black holes and time travel, while making a nonsense of our perception of a ''now'' or a division of time into past, present and future.In About Time Paul Davies tackles the tough questions about time, including the strange relationship between physical time and our psychological perception of it. He gives straightforward descriptions of topics such as the theory of relativity, the relation between time dilation and the speed of light and Hawking''s ''imaginary time''. He concludes that, despite decades of progress in unravelling the mysteries of Table of ContentsA very brief history of time; time for a change; timewarps; black holes - gateways to the end of time; the beginning of time - when exactly was it?; Einstein's greatest triumph?; quantum time; imaginary time; the arrow of time; backwards in time; time travel - fact or fantasy?; but what time is it now?; experimenting with time; the unfinished revolution.

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Quantum mechanics is perhaps the most successful theory ever formulated. The only problem with it, argues Lee Smolin, is that it is wrong ... a fount of provocative ideas ... lucid, upbeat and, finally, optimistic'' Graham Farmelo, Nature Human beings, says Lee Smolin, author of The Trouble With Physics, have always had a problem with the boundary between reality and fantasy, confusing our representations of the world with the world itself. Nowhere is this more evident than in quantum physics, which forms the basis for our understanding of everything from elementary particles to the behaviour of materials.While quantum mechanics is currently our best theory of nature at an atomic scale, it has many puzzling qualities - qualities that preclude realism and therefore give an incomplete description of nature. Rather than question this version of quantum mechanics, however, whole groups of physicists have embraced it as correctTrade ReviewA masterful exposition on the state of quantum physics ... spellbinding * Financial Times *Quantum mechanics is perhaps the most successful theory ever formulated. The only problem with it, argues Lee Smolin, is that it is wrong. He attempts to examine other options for a theory of the atomic world ... a fount of provocative ideas ... lucid, upbeat and, finally, optimistic * Nature *An inventive and provocative thinker, as well as an engaging writer ... lucid, searingly honest, impassioned, inspiring * Physics World *Full of extraordinary ideas ... a new theory of everything ... Smolin's promised solution, when it comes, is just comprehensible enough for us to see that it's beautiful * The Times *A superb and sweeping book ... masterfulAs the latest entry into the conversation, Smolin's book feels the most immediate and personal. Here is no detached narrator, but an active participant in the fray who perceives the debate over the nature of reality in personal terms. . . While the way forward remains elusive, Smolin and others who seek to illuminate how physics got to where it is today are at least making the quest for answers a bit less costly * Globe and Mail *Smolin is an extremely creative thinker who has been a leader in theoretical physics for many years. He is also a gifted writer who manages to translate his own insights about how science works into engaging language and compelling stories . . . Smolin's description of how quantum mechanics works is both elegant and accessible * NPR *The best explanation yet of what has yet to be explained. -- George Dyson, author of Turing’s Cathedral

Read more less

Book SynopsisCHOSEN AS A BOOK OF THE YEAR BY THE GUARDIAN, DAILY TELEGRAPH, NEW STATESMAN AND BBC SCIENCE FOCUS''An intimate, unique, and inspiring perspective on the life and work of one of the greatest minds of our time. Filled with insight, humour, and never-before-told stories, it''s a view of Stephen Hawking that few have seen and all will appreciate'' James Clear, author of Atomic HabitsAn icon of the last fifty years, Stephen Hawking seems to encapsulate genius: not since Albert Einstein has a scientific figure held such a position in popular consciousness. In this enthralling memoir, writer and physicist Leonard Mlodinow tells the story of his friend and their collaboration, offering an intimate account of this giant of science. The two met in 2003, when Stephen asked Leonard if he would consider writing a book with him, the follow up to the bestselling A Brief History of Time. As they spent years working on a seconTrade ReviewA very fine book indeed. Mlodinow is himself a physicist of some distinction, but he is also a very skilled writer. Writing of the stubbornness that enabled Hawking to pursue theoretical physics despite his motor neurone disease, he says, "It allowed his spirit to dance in the prison of his limp body." The great merit of this book is to convey so vividly the dance, the spirit and the prison -- Ray Monk * New Statesman Books of the Year *Even Stephen Hawking's brain was not a computer; fellow physicist Leonard Mlodinow provides a warm and three-dimensional portrait of a brilliant and stubborn human being, rather than simply a genius in a chair * Daily Telegraph Books of the Year *One of the most touching biographies of the year shows the human side of the great physicist Stephen Hawking, as seen by his friend and collaborator Leonard Mlodinow. With admirably easy-to-grasp digressions into favourite subjects such as Einstein, dark energy and black holes, Mlodinow tells us about Hawking the man -- Katy Guest * Guardian Books of the Year *A personal and intellectual biography - and tremendously entertaining. . . Leonard Mlodinow is himself a theoretical physicist, and a brilliant writer to boot. . . Five stars -- Daily Telegraph * Steven Poole *Hawking's collaborator retells his story with humour and fondness, and helps us know the famous scientist as he really was. . . Highly enjoyable. . . a tender account, full of genuine affection, which doesn't shy away from Hawking's intense focus, self-centredness and unpredictability -- Guardian * Jim Al-Khalili *A compelling read. . . fresh and worthwhile. As a serious theoretical physicist who co-wrote two books with Hawking, Leonard Mlodinow saw the great man from a unique vantage point. He can delve into intimate details and survey the intellectual high ground -- James McConnachie * Sunday Times *Leonard Mlodinow has done the impossible. He has skillfully woven together a thoughtful, insightful, intimate, and engaging portrait of Stephen Hawking, one of the greatest minds of our times, while being scrupulously faithful to the physics. Hawking would have been proud of this book -- Michio KakuStartlingly good ... What really comes over is his modest delight that he made a friend of such an eminent man. Mlodinow explains the science with a clarity and an elegance. You will learn from this what you signally failed to learn from A Brief History of Time -- Daily MailStephen Hawking was a unique scientist and person, and Leonard Mlodinow's book is a unique glimpse into how he worked and lived. As educational as it is touching, this is a deeply human look at a mind that spanned the cosmos -- Sean Carroll, author of Something Deeply HiddenDespite the acclaim, there is still much to discover about Steven Hawking ... theoretical physicist Leonard Mlodinow offers an intimate glimpse inside the famous scientist's life * New Scientist *Hugely enjoyable. . . fresh and compelling. Instead of the spellbound exaltation of a great mind, it is a humane and intimate portrayal of a brilliant scientist. It is also written from a special vantage point. Mlodinow, a theoretical physicist and gifted author, spent several years working with Hawking, co-writing two books. Their working sessions form the narrative backbone of this emotionally satisfying and intellectually stimulating memoir John Paul Rathbone, Financial Times -- Financial Times * John Paul Rathbone *An intimate, unique, and inspiring perspective on the life and work of one of the greatest minds of our time. Filled with insight, humour, and never-before-told stories, it's a view of Stephen Hawking that few have seen and all will appreciate -- James Clear, author of Atomic HabitsStephen Hawking surpassed science and touched the world with his transcendent genius and heroic courage that inspired millions. In this intimate memoir, his long-time friend and physics collaborator Leonard Mlodinow, one of the finest science writers of our time, shares insights into Hawking that humanizes him while also revealing what made him one of history's greatest minds -- Michael Shermer, author of The Believing Brain

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Modern Introduction to Classical Electrodynamics is suitable for undergraduate students with some background knowledge of the subject and for graduate students, while more advanced topics make it a useful resource for PhD students and researchers. The book places much emphasis on the formal structure of the theory; beginning with Maxwell''s equations in the vacuum, it emphasises the central role of gauge invariance and Special Relativity. After introductory chapters which include rederivations of elementary results of electrostatics and magnetostatics, and the multipole expansion, Special Relativity is introduced, and most of the subsequent derivations are performed using covariant formalism and gauge potentials, allowing for greater conceptual and technical clarity compared to more traditional treatments. The second part of the book covers electrodynamics in material media. This includes Maxwell''s equations in material media, frequency dependent response of materials and Kramers-KrTrade ReviewA high quality substitute for existing texts, well organized, very pedagogical, and written from the modern perspective. College and undergraduate university students will appreciate the obvious advantages of Maggiore's text. * Mikhail Shifman, University of Minnesota *Table of Contents1: Mathematical tools 2: Systems of units 3: Maxwell's equations 4: Elementary applications of Maxwell's equations 5: Electromagnetic energy 6: Multipole expansion for static elds 7: Special Relativity 8: Covariant formulation of electrodynamics 9: Electromagnetic waves in vacuum 10: Electromagnetic field of moving charges 11: Radiation from localized sources 12: Post-Newtonian expansion and radiation reaction 13: Electromagnetic fields in material media 14: Frequency dependent response of materials 15: Electromagnetic waves in material media 16: Scattering of electromagnetic radiation Appendix A - Electrodynamics in Gaussian units Free

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book explains the relevant technical issues of general relativity theory and discusses how these issues bear upon philosophical problems about the nature of space and time, causality, and laws of nature. The first book to address these implications critically, it provides an overview of the technical literature as well as analytical commentary on its philosophical significance.Trade Review...this book is a refreshing addition to the literature for we find that Earman not only provides excellent discussions but also clarifies (or in some instances re-defines) the standard definitions involved...the book is highly recommended. * AAHPSSS, 1998 *Earman provides a careful topographic analysis of some core regions that is written in a brilliant style. * Vienna Circle Institute Yearbook 1998 *Table of Contents1. Introducing Spacetime Singularities and Acausalities ; 2. Defining, Characterizing, and Proving the Existence ; 3. Cosmic Censorship ; 4. Supertasks ; 5. The Big Bang and the Horizon Problem ; 6. Time Travel ; 7. Eternal; Recurrence, Cyclic Time, and All That ; 8. Afterword

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn his conversational style, Anthony Zee examines the nature of gravity and its role in our universe. Zee starts from a birthday gift that Albert Einstein received on his seventy-sixth birthday that worked on the main principle in his theory of gravity. From there Zee leads the reader through the implications of Einstein''s theory and its influence on modern physics. Einstein''s Universe in a witty and accessible style also examines how the theory of gravity has shaped our understanding of how the universe began, the development of stars and galaxies, and the nature of space itself. The new Oxford edition will include a new afterword by the author that will bring the subject matter up to date.Trade Review"An extraordinary writer: playful, inspired, and brilliant."--Publishers Weekly "Zee writes with wry, poetic humor.... It's as if he is conducting an easygoing conversation with his audience...a scientist who can clearly evoke the imagery hidden within a mathematical equation, treating some rather formidable material with enthusiasm and delight."--The New York Times "A brash, breezy, and authoritative discussion...a fascinating book."--The Washington Post "Through his engaging, conversational style, Zee...succeeds in informing while entertaining the reader with disarming stories."--The San Francisco Chronicle "Among the numerous authors who have written popularizations of contemporary physics, none is better than Zee at explaining things simply."--Library Journal "An extraordinary writer: playful, inspired, and brilliant."--Publishers Weekly "Zee writes with wry, poetic humor.... It's as if he is conducting an easygoing conversation with his audience...a scientist who can clearly evoke the imagery hidden within a mathematical equation, treating some rather formidable material with enthusiasm and delight."--The New York Times "A brash, breezy, and authoritative discussion...a fascinating book."--The Washington Post "Through his engaging, conversational style, Zee...succeeds in informing while entertaining the reader with disarming stories."--The San Francisco Chronicle "Among the numerous authors who have written popularizations of contemporary physics, none is better than Zee at explaining things simply."--Library Journal "How many times have you actually laughed out loud reading a book on physics? If your answer is 'Never!', then you should pick up a copy of An Old Man's Toy [Einstein's Universe].... Many books on physics can be very interesting, but it is rare to find one that is actually fun to read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to anyone. A. Zee has a style of writing that makes one keep turning the pages.... [The book] is interesting, playfully written, and very readable. Don't pass it up."--The Science Teacher "A. Zee is that rare creature: a physicist who knows how to tell a story. (His previous book) Fearful Symmetry was...lucid, entertaining. In this reprise, Zee is just as fascinating, and even funnier...with his prankish good humor and gifts for simplifying the complicated.... An Old Man's Toy [Einstein's Universe] is both a delightful read and a faithful yet accessible look at an avant-garde that is far more revolutionary than any downtown's club scene...it is too rare an opportunity to miss."--Life of New YorkTable of ContentsPROLOGUE: THE APPLE AND THE MOON ; I. THE RISE OF GRAVITY ; II. THE EXPANDING UNIVERSE ; III. STRUCTURES OUT OF THE VOID ; IV. THE MYSTERY OF GRAVITY

Read more less

Book SynopsisPart of the reissued Oxford Classic Texts in the Physical Sciences series, this book was first published in 1983, and has swiftly become one of the great modern classics of relativity theory. It represents a personal testament to the work of the author, who spent several years writing and working-out the entire subject matter.The theory of black holes is the most simple and beautiful consequence of Einstein''s relativity theory. At the time of writing there was no physical evidence for the existence of these objects, therefore all that Professor Chandrasekhar used for their construction were modern mathematical concepts of space and time. Since that time a growing body of evidence has pointed to the truth of Professor Chandrasekhar''s findings, and the wisdom contained in this book has become fully evident.Trade ReviewThere is no doubt in my mind that this book is a masterpiece...beautifully written and well-presented. * Roger Penrose in Nature *"Chandrasekhar has provided us with a magisterial text on the classical black holes, outstanding in the depth and detail of its coverage...Throughout, a wealth of mathematical ideas is explained and employed in the process of extracting the properties of these space-times, and the similarities and differences between the different black hole space-times are thoroughly treated. This book is an undoubted classic, and wil remain a standard reference work on black holes for many years." Mathematics Today, October 1999Table of Contents1. Mathematical preliminaries ; 2. A space-time of sufficient generality ; 3. The Schwarzchild space-time ; 4. The perturbations of the Schwarzchild black hole ; 5. The Reissner-Nordstrom solution ; 6. The Kerr metric ; 7. The geodesics in the Kerr space-time ; 8. Electromagnetic waves in Kerr geometry ; 9. The gravitational perturbations of the Kerr black hole ; 10. Spin-1/2 particles in Kerr geometry ; 11. Other solutions ; 12. Other methods

Read more less

Book SynopsisThree quarters of a century elapsed between Ampère''s definition of electrodynamics and Einstein''s reform of the concepts of space and time. The two events occurred in utterly different worlds: the French Academy of Sciences of the 1820s seems very remote from the Bern patent office of the early 1900s, and the forces between two electric currents quite foreign to the optical synchronization of clocks. Yet Ampère''s electrodynamics and Einstein''s relativity are firmly connected through an historical chain involving German extensions of Ampère''s work, competition with British field conceptions, Dutch synthesis, and fin de siècle criticism of the aether-matter connection. Darrigol''s book retraces this intriguing evolution, with a physicist''s attention to conceptual and instrumental developments, and with an historian''s awareness of their cultural and material embeddings. This book exploits a wide range of sources, and incorporates the many important insights of other scholars. ThoroTrade Review... this is both a pioneering work that lays firm foundations for all further investigations in this fundamental field and one of the highest quality. * ISIS *... the scholarship is detailed and impeccable. * ISIS *... an important book that should stand as one of the first points of reference for anyone seeking a sound technical introduction to the history of electrodynamics in the nineteenth century. * The Royal Society Notes and Records *... carefully interweaves the history of theoretical innovation with the history of the experimental work upon which the theory was founded ... The author has done an extremely impressive job in digesting and summarizing a large and often highly technical primary and secondary literature, and in telling the story in his own lucid and engaging style. The key mathematical theories of electrodynamics are dealt with in a clear and concise manner ... very useful end-of-chapter summaries. * The Royal Society Notes and Records *Table of ContentsPREFACE; 1 FOUNDATIONS; 2 GERMAN PRECISION; 3 BRITISH FIELDS; 4 CLERK MAXWELL; 5 BRITISH MAXWELLIANS; 6 OPEN CURRENTS; 7 CONDUCTION OF ELECTROLYTES AND GASES; 8 THE ELECTRON THEORIES; 9 OLD PRINCIPLES AND A NEW WORLD VIEW; APPENDICES 1-12

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is a new edition of Tensors and Manifolds: With Applications to Mechanics and Relativity which was published in 1992. It is based on courses taken by advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics and physics, giving an introduction to the expanse of modern mathematics and its application in modern physics. It aims to fill the gap between the basic courses and the highly technical and specialised courses which both mathematics and physics students require in their advanced training, while simultaneously trying to promote, at an early stage, a better appreciation and understanding of each other''s discipline. The book sets forth the basic principles of tensors and manifolds, describing how the mathematics underlies elegant geometrical models of classical mechanics, relativity and elementary particle physics. The existing material from the first edition has been reworked and extended in some sections to provide extra clarity, as well as additional problemTrade ReviewReview from previous edition Clearly written and self-contained and, in particular, the author has succeeded in combining mathematical rigor with a certain degree of informality in a satisfactory way. As such, this work will certainly be appreciated by a wide audience. * Mathematical Reviews, August 1993 *Table of Contents1. Vector spaces ; 2. Multilinear mappings and dual spaces ; 3. Tensor product spaces ; 4. Tensors ; 5. Symmetric and skew-symmetric tensors ; 6. Exterior (Grassmann) algebra ; 7. The tangent map of real cartesian spaces ; 8. Topological spaces ; 9. Differentiable manifolds ; 10. Submanifolds ; 11. Vector fields, 1-forms and other tensor fields ; 12. Differentiation and integration of differential forms ; 13. The flow and the Lie derivative of a vector field ; 14. Integrability conditions for distributions and for pfaffian systems ; 15. Pseudo-Riemannian manifolds ; 16. Connection 1-forms ; 17. Connection on manifolds ; 18. Mechanics ; 19. Additional topics in mechanics ; 20. A spacetime ; 21. Some physics on Minkowski spacetime ; 22. Einstein spacetimes ; 23. Spacetimes near an isolated star ; 24. Nonempty spacetimes ; 25. Lie groups ; 26. Fiber bundles ; 27. Connections on fiber bundles ; 28. Gauge theory

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is intended for undergraduates taking an introductory course on special relativity which is rather more conceptually and mathematically than experimentally orientated. A suitably prepared reader could use it for self-study. It assumes no prior knowledge of relativity. Thus it elaborates the underlying logic, dwells on the subleties and apparent paradoxes, and also contains a large collection of problems which should just about cover all the basic modes of thinking and calculating in special relativity. Much emphasis has been laid on developing the student''s intuition for space-time geometry and four-tensor calculus; but the approach is not so dogmatically four-dimensional that three-dimensional methods are rejected our of hand when they yield a result more directly. This updated new edition contains additional examples and problems, and the chapter on relativistic mechanics of continua has been substantially rewritten.Trade ReviewFrom reviews of the first edition: 'This will be a really useful book for students for years, perhaps decades, to come.' Nature'...Rindler's book should be a convenient and valuable (and affordable) addition to the advanced physics students's shelves' American Journal of Physics'The author's pedagogic skills are apparent in his ability to underline and clearly explain the conceptual intricacies embodied in Einstein's postulates... giving lucid and illuminating accounts of the conventional basic topics' Physics Education'The text of the first edition is refined and improved. Major changes concern the derivation of the Lorentz transformation and the development of continuum mechanics.' B. Wegner, Mathematics Abstracts, 781/94Table of ContentsThe foundations of special relativity; Relativistic kinematics; Relativistic optics; Spacetime; Relativistic particle mechanics; Relativity and electromagnetism; Relativistic mechanics of continua; Appendices; Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisRelativistic cosmology has in recent years become one of the most active and exciting branches of research, often considered to be today where particle physics was forty years ago, with major discoveries just waiting to happen. Consequently the part most affected by this second edition is the last part on cosmology. But there are additions, improvements, and new exercises throughout. _ The book''s basic purpose is unchanged. It is to make relativity come alive conceptually, and to display the grand theoretical edifice that it is, with consequences in many branches of physics. The emphasis is on the foundations, on the logical subtleties, and on presenting the necessary mathematics - including differential geometry and tensors - but always as late and in as palatable a form as possible. Aided by over 300 exercises, the book seeks to promote an in-depth understanding, and the confidence to tackle any basic problem in relativity.Trade ReviewRindler's writing is elegant, yet compact and logically precise. ... this book should be on the shelf of all who are intrigued by the startling modern advances in our understanding of space and time. * American Journal of Physics *An outstanding introductory treatise by one of the masters of the subject, this book belongs to the shelves of every physics library. * Foundations of Physics *... a self-contained and balanced work. Every sentence hits home, and no word is superfluous. Each chapter ends with a set of well-chosen and instructive exercises. ... it exposes the reader to the physics with inspiring and occasionally surprising arguments. ... a totally successful textbook and a must for all who study special and general relativity. * Physik Journal *... a first-class presentation of the intellectual glory of the first century of relativity. * Times Higher Education Supplement *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; PART I: SPECIAL RELATIVITY; PART II: GENERAL RELATIVITY; PART III: COSMOLOGY

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe aim of this book is to become a major reference text for gravitational-wave physics, covering in detail both the experimental and the theoretical aspects. It is the only existing book on gravitational waves to date, and it will likely remain unique for its broadness and scope. It brings the reader to the forefront of present-day research, both theoretical and experimental, assuming no previous knowledge of gravitational-wave physics. Part I of Volume 1 is devoted to the theory of gravitational waves. Here we have re-derived - in a coherent way - most of the results that we present, clarifying or streamlining existing derivations. Part II of Volume 1 is devoted to a description of experimental gravitational-wave physics. We discuss in great detail existing and planned experiments, as well as data analysis techniques.Trade ReviewThe book covers a staggering breadth of material and is extremely useful as a bird's-eye overview of the field... From now on I will recommend it as the best entry point for students who want to join this blooming research field * Emanuele Berti, Physics Today *The presentation of the material, including the notation and layout, is very clear. The book is written at a level that will appeal to advanced students and active researchers. [...] The book clearly fills a gap in the literature. It deserves to become a standard textbook in gravitation and to be on the book-shelf of everybody who is seriously interested in gravitational wave astronomy. * General Relativity and Gravitation *The need for a textbook that treats the production and detection of GWs systematically is clear. Michele Maggiore has succeeded in doing this in a way that is fruitful not only for the young physicist starting to work in the field, but also for the experienced scientist needing a reference book for everyday work. * CERN Courier *For its comprehensive coverage of the theoretical and experimental aspects of gravitational waves, and for the high quality of its writing, this book is a truly remarkable achievement. I recommend it with great enthusiasm to anyone interested in this exciting topic. * Classical and Quantum Gravity *Students and experienced researchers will welcome Michele Maggiore's timely and authoritative new text book. * Nature *...excellent and useful material...on an important new frontier of astronomy and of fundamental physics. I look forward to Volume 2, and even more so to the dawn of gravitational-wave astronomy. * Nature *A very good book, and it fills a gap in the literature. [...] It is an ideal textbook for a monographic introductory course on gravitational waves, for graduates or advanced undergraduates, [and] it could also be the basic reference text for researchers, both experimentalists and theoreticians. * The Gravitational Voice *Table of ContentsPART I; PART II

Read more less

Book SynopsisGravity is one of the four fundamental interactions that exist in nature. It also has the distinction of being the oldest, weakest, and most difficult force to quantize. Understanding gravity is not only essential for understanding the motion of objects on Earth, but also the motion of all celestial objects, and even the expansion of the Universe itself. It was the study of gravity that led Einstein to his profound realisations about the nature of space and time. Gravity is not only universal, it is also essential for understanding the behaviour of the Universe, and all astrophysical bodies within it. In this Very Short Introduction Timothy Clifton looks at the development of our understanding of gravity since the early observations of Kepler and Newtonian theory. He discusses Einstein''s theory of gravity, which now supplants Newton''s, showing how it allows us to understand why the frequency of light changes as it passes through a gravitational field, why GPS satellites need their clocks corrected as they orbit the Earth, and why the orbits of distant neutron stars speed up. Today, almost 100 years after Einstein published his theory of gravity, we have even detected the waves of gravitational radiation that he predicted. Clifton concludes by considering the testing and application of general relativity in astrophysics and cosmology, and looks at dark energy and efforts such as string theory to combine gravity with quantum mechanics.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Reviewwell worth reading * Physics Education *Table of ContentsREFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlbert Einstein is often viewed as the icon of genius, and his theories are admired for their beauty and correctness. Yet the final judge of any theory is the rigorous test of experiment, not the fame of its inventor or the allure of its mathematics. For decades, general relativity has passed test after test with flying colors, including some remarkable new tests using the recently detected gravitational waves. Still, there are reasons for doubt. Einstein''s theory of gravity, as beautiful as it is, seems to be in direct contradiction with another theory he helped create: quantum mechanics. Until recently, this was considered to be a purely academic affair. But as more and more data pour in from the most distant corners of the universe, hinting at bizarre stuff called dark energy and dark matter, some scientists have begun to explore the possibility that Einstein''s theory may not provide a complete picture of the cosmos. This book chronicles the latest adventures of scientists as theyTrade ReviewI strongly recommend it to all those interested in general relativity. Although non-specialist readers may find it challenging, they will surely be rewarded by its compelling descriptions and fascinating narrative. * Roberto Lalli, Physics Today *Will and Yunes provide an entertaining overview of the many tests that general relativity has been put to over the past 100 years or so... In fact, the book contains a lot more interesting stuff - and nice personal anecdotes... than the title suggests... the authors strike the perfect balance between depth and accessibility, using helpful metaphors wherever is necessary. * Govert Schilling, BBC Sky at Night *The two authors have not only the broad spectrum of knowledge and personal experience necessary to master the subject, but also the writing skills needed to provide a fresh and witty narrative that is comprehensible to a wide audience... I strongly recommend it to all those interested in general relativity. * Roberto Lalli, Physics Today *[Will and Yunes] succeed superbly in describing the history and personalities ... and work diligently ... to explain the science ... Solid insights into Einstein's dazzling discoveries. * Kirkus Reviews *Physicists Will and Yunes take readers on an intellectually challenging but invigorating tour of experiments involving Einstein's theory of general relativity ... A valuable treatise on a foundational topic in modern physics. * Publishers Weekly *Clifford Will and Nicolás Yunes are celebrating the effectiveness of the general theory of relativity... a genuinely interesting book. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *Table of Contents1: A Very Good Summer 2: Wrinkles in Time 3: How Light Sheds Light on Gravity 4: Does Gravity Do the Twist? 5: Celestial Lighthouses for Testing Relativity 6: How to Use a Black Hole to Test General Relativity 7: Gravitational Waves Detected at Last! 8: What do Gravitational Waves Tell Us? 9: A Loud Future for Gravitational Wave Science 10: A Dialogue

Read more less

Book SynopsisOffers the opportunity to take part in an imaginary meeting between Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein and a modern physicist, discussing the theory of relativity. This text describes the source of the theory, its workings, and the way it has revolutionized the modern view of the physical world.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is a remarkable book: a symposium proceedings volume that will also function as a graduate-level text. Dedicated to the great theorist S. Chandrasekhar, the book consists of ten well-written chapters that cover the essential tools of theoretical astrophysics. The first half of the volume is concerned with the theory of how stars work (structure, stability, rotation, magnetism, dynamics) and the latter half is mainly a survey of relativistic astrophysics. . . . Read it for a broad-brush view of what theorists are up to now and how they solve problems.Journal of the British Astronomical AssociationThe book as a whole should be a gift from every research supervisor to every new graduate student in theoretical astronomy.D. W. Sciama, Science

Read more less