Flat and Curved Space-Times [Paperback]

George F. R. Ellis (Author), Ruth M. Williams (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0198511698 | ISBN-13: 978-0198511694 | Publication Date: September 22, 1988

This text explains special relativity and the foundations of general relativity theory in terms understandable to undergraduates in mathematics and physics coming to the subject for the first time. Space-time geometry is emphasized throughout, providing a basic understanding of the special relativity effects of time dilation, length contraction, and the relativity of simultaneity. Bondi's k-calculus is introduced as a simple means of calculating the magnitudes of these effects, and this leads to a derivation of the Lorentz Transformation as a way of unifying these results. The invariant interval of flat space-time is compared to that of curved space-times, and the basic properties of simple cosmological models are presented. Appendices enable the advanced student to master the application of four tensors to the relativistic study of energy, momentum and electromagnetism.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"One of the best ways to illustrate the concepts arising in special and general relativity is through the use of skillfully drawn space-time diagrams . . . . This volume makes elegant use of this technique to present some of the key ideas of relativity physics without assuming a mathematical sophistication beyond high school algebra and trigonometry . . . Would make an excellent text for an elementary course or college seminar." --American Scientist

"Does an excellent job of making complicated ideas seem simple. . . . It is lavishly illustrated and informally presented. It gives a sound introduction to relativity, black holes and cosmology, and it can teach mathematicians a thing or two." --New Science

"This textbook, developed from lectures given by Ellis, presents the special and general theories of relativity for the reader with an introductory college physics, algebra, and trigonometry background.... The book's strength is its reliance on a geometrical view of space-time that conveys concepts without obscuring them in mathematics or words.... an excellent textbook for a college-level introduction to the physics of space-time." --Science Books and Films

"A remarkable introduction to the ideas of both special and general relativity.... The stated aim of the book is to enable the reader to understand a theory which is of fundamental importance in a modern description of the nature of the physical world. This goal has clearly been reached." --Mathematical Reviews

About the Author

G.F.R. Ellis, Professor of Mathematics, University of Cape Town, South Africa. R.M. Williams, Assistant Director of Research, Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (September 22, 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198511698
• ISBN-13: 978-0198511694
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,020,296 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent and crystal clear presentation of relativity., February 12, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Flat and Curved Space-Times (Paperback)

This is one of the best introductions to the subject that I've read. The explanations are transparent with ample illustrations and examples. There are also many exercises to help the reader enforce what he has learned. There is also a very helpful annoted bibliography (actually the Afterword) which guides the reader to more advanced reading.

It is really a shame that this book is not quoted more often. Overall, this is a very fine book.