ASP3051 - Relativity and cosmology - 2018

Newtonian physics and Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, the geometry of space-time, the Minkowski metric, Lorentz transformations, k-calculus, and four-vectors; the physics of space-time, momentum and energy; classical paradoxes; other metrics, Black Holes; observation of the Universe relevant to Cosmology; the expansion of the Universe, the Cosmic Background Radiation; the evolution of the Universe, propagation of light; primordial elements and recent observations.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the reasons for supplanting Newtonian physics with relativity theory;
2. Use special relativity to predict the behaviour of relativistic particles;
3. Discuss the relativistic paradoxes in an informed way;
4. Discuss the experimental and theoretical foundations of general relativity;
5. Discuss our current understanding of the beginnings, nature, and fate of the Universe;
6. Evaluate the current uncertainties in cosmology;
7. Analyse physical problems geometrically, thinking logically in a theory at odds with common experience;
8. Use mathematics to solve complex problems;
9. Interpret complex mathematical results and communicate them in written form.

Examination (3 hours): 60%

Laboratory work and reports: 40%

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Astrophysics

Physics