A Short Course in General Relativity and Cosmology

This book offers a concise introduction to general relativity and cosmology, encouraging active engagement and independent calculations. A Short Course in General Relativity and Cosmology is ideal for upper undergraduates.

Unlike most traditional introductory textbooks on relativity and cosmology that address questions such as whether accelerated expansion can pull our bodies apart or how dark matter influences classical tests of general relativity, A Short Course in General Relativity and Cosmology aims to provide a solid foundation for students. This book encourages readers to engage actively with the material by performing their own calculations and critically analyzing scientific papers on the subject. It covers key discoveries and theoretical advancements in general relativistic cosmology since the early 1980s, making it a valuable resource for aspiring physicists.

The text stands out for its brevity while still covering essential concepts without sacrificing mathematical accessibility. The authors present the necessary mathematical tools in a clear and straightforward manner, allowing students to grasp complex ideas more easily. Although the mathematics involved is not overly challenging, a background in statistical thermodynamics and quantum mechanics is beneficial, making this book particularly well-suited for upper undergraduate students.

By connecting mathematical concepts to their significance in modern physics, A Short Course in General Relativity and Cosmology provides an efficient pathway for understanding the intricacies of the universe. Readers will find themselves equipped not only to comprehend the material but also to explore further into the fascinating world of cosmology and relativity.