Overview
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; general relativity, including other metrics, black holes and gravitational waves; cosmology, including relevant observations and the cosmic background radiation; the expansion … For more content click the Read More button below.
Offerings
S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS
Rules
Enrolment Rule
Contacts
Chief Examiner(s)
Associate Professor Duncan Galloway
Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Duncan Galloway
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you should 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.
Assessment summary
In-semester: 40%
Examination (3 hours and 10 minutes): 60%
Workload requirements
Workload
Availability in areas of study
Astrophysics
Physics
Physics