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General Relativity - MAT00046M

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  • Department: Mathematics
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Additional information

From 2019/20:

Classical Mechanics & Relativity with Professional Skills PHY00018C and Applied Mathematics for Mathematics & Physics MAT00039I

Or

Advanced Theoretical Techniques & Introduction to Quantum Computing PHY00044H and Relativity & Particle Physics PHY00042H

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

  • To give an introduction to Einstein's general relativistic theory of gravitation.

  • To explain how it provides a more accurate and satisfactory description of gravity than the Newtonian theory.

  • To describe several or all of the following topics: tests of general relativity, black holes, cosmology.

Module learning outcomes

  • Appreciate the splendour of Einstein's achievement.

  • Understand the reasons for supposing that gravity may be modelled in terms of a curved space-time.

  • Appreciate how the differential geometry of surfaces in three dimensions may be generalised to give a theory of an -dimensional curved space with metric, and to understand those parts of Riemannian geometry and the tensor calculus needed to follow the arguments leading to Einstein's equations.

  • Understand the conditions under which Einstein's theory reduces to the Newtonian Theory as a first approximation.

  • Solve the Einstein equations for a static and bounded spherically symmetric distribution of matter leading to the Schwarzchild exterior metric.

  • Appreciate (as time allows) formulas for the perihelion advance of planetary orbits, the deflection of light rays and the gravitational red shift, black holes, features of simple cosmological models.

Module content

Syllabus

  • A brief survey of the Newtonian theory of gravitation and the reasons for generalising the theory of special relativity in order to account for gravity.

  • The idea that the paths of free particles or light rays are time-like or null geodesics, respectively, in a curved space-time.

  • An introduction to Riemannian geometry, based on a metric as a generalisation of the differential geometry on a curved surface in three dimensions.

  • Tensors and the tensor calculus.

  • The Einstein field equation.

  • The Schwarzchild metric.

  • A selection of: the advance of the perihelion of planetary orbits, the deflection of light rays and the gravitational red shift; black holes; the application of general relativity to cosmology; gravitational radiation.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Current Department policy on feedback is available in the student handbook. Coursework and examinations will be marked and returned in accordance with this policy.

Indicative reading

M Ludvigsen, General Relativity: a geometric approach, Cambridge University Press (S.82 LUD).


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.