2019-2020 Academic Catalog 
    
    Apr 16, 2024  
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2019-2020 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

MATH 235 - Einstein’s Theory of Gravity

This advanced undergraduate course introduces Einstein’s theory of gravity, known as General Relativity.  The central idea is that gravity is not a “force” between objects with mass (as Newton envisioned it), but rather the curvature of space itself.  We start by investigating “special” relativity: the dynamics of space and time without gravity.  Then we give a rigorous account of what is meant mathematically by “space” and “curvature.”  After that, we move on to Einstein’s defining equation relating gravity to curvature, and then close the course by studying one of its most prominent class of solutions: those modeling the universe as a whole.  Math 130 (Linear Algebra) and Math 131 (Multivariable Calculus) are formal prerequisites.  Familiarity with Physics 131 (Quantum Physics and Relativity) and Physics 160 (Classical Mechanics) are recommended but not required.  Familiarity with Math 230 (Differential Geometry) is also recommended but not required.

Prerequisites: Math 130, Math 131

Anticipated Terms Offered: Spring 2018
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