PHYM006 | Relativity and Cosmology | 2017-18 |
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Dr T.J. Harries | ||
Delivery Weeks: | T2:01-11 | |
Level: | 7 (NQF) | |
Credits: | 15 NICATS / 7.5 ECTS | |
Enrolment: | 32 students (approx) |
This module is an introduction to the special and general theories of relativity. During the first half of the module the mathematical tools (tensor analysis and differential geometry) that underpin general relativity are presented, and students will require a good level level of mathematical fluency and intuition in order to engage with material. Subsequent topics include Einsteinâs field equation, Schwarzschildâs solution and black holes, and the Robertson-Walker metric and cosmology.
The module aims to develop an understanding of Einsteinâs Theory of General Relativity (GR). The module starts with a recap of Special Relativity and then introduces the principles of equivalence, covariance and consistency that lead Einstein to the General Theory. The mathematics of tensors and differential geometry are presented in the context of Einsteinâs field equation. This is followed by a detailed derivation of Schwarzchildâs solution and its implication for time and space around a black hole. The module concludes by examining the use of GR in cosmology.
A student who has passed this module should be able to:
Description | Study time | KIS type |
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20×1-hour lectures | 20 hours | SLT |
2×1-hour problems/revision classes | 2 hours | SLT |
5×6-hour self-study packages | 30 hours | GIS |
4×4-hour problem sets | 16 hours | GIS |
Reading, private study and revision | 82 hours | GIS |
Weight | Form | Size | When | ILOS assessed | Feedback |
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0% | Guided self-study | 5×6-hour packages | Fortnightly | 1-12 | Discussion in class |
0% | 4 × Problems sets | 4 hours per set | Fortnightly | 1-12 | Solutions discussed in problems classes. |
100% | Final Examination | 2 hours 30 minutes | May/June | 1-12 | Mark via MyExeter, collective feedback via ELE and solutions. |
The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).
Core text:
Supplementary texts:
ELE:
Pre-requisite Modules | Vector Mechanics (PHY1021), Introduction to Astrophysics (PHY1022) and Mathematics with Physical Applications (PHY2025) |
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Co-requisite Modules | none |
Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.
Original form of assessment | Form of re-assessment | ILOs re-assessed | Time scale for re-assessment |
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Whole module | Written examination (100%) | 1-12 | August/September assessment period |
Notes: See Physics Assessment Conventions.
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IoP Accreditation Checklist |
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Availability | MPhys and PGRS only |
Distance learning | NO |
Keywords | Physics; Theory; Spaces; Curvature; Time; Curves; General theory; Shifts; Cosmological; Equation; Inertial frame. |
Created | 01-Oct-10 |
Revised | 22-Dec-17 |