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FSI3030 Relativity Theory 7.5 credits

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Information per course offering

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Course syllabus as PDF

Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.

Course syllabus FSI3030 (Spring 2019–)
Headings with content from the Course syllabus FSI3030 (Spring 2019–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

I. Special relativity

Repetition of tensor notation. The meaning of relativity theory. Einstein's postulates. Geometry of the Minkowski space and Lorentz transformations. Length contraction and time dilation. The twin paradox and proper time. Energy and momentum in special relativity. Maxwell's equations and their relativistic covariance.

II. Basic differential geometry

Local coordinates on manifolds. Covariant and contravariant vectors and tensors. (Pseudo-)Riemannian metric. Covariant derivative (Levi-Civita connection and Christoffel symbols). Parallel transport. Curvature of spacetime.

III. General relativity

The principle of equivalence. Gravitational redshift and light deflection. The Schwarzschild spacetime and experimental tests of general relativity. Einstein's field equations. Introduction to cosmological models.

Intended learning outcomes

After completed course, the PhD student should be able to:

  • use tensor notation in relativity theory.
  • apply the concepts of length contraction and time dilation as well as use Lorentz transformations.
  • solve simple kinematical problems.
  • analyze Maxwell's equations and use their relativistic invariance.
  • compute basic quantities in differential geometry.
  • analyze Einstein's field equations as well as know and use some important solutions to these.
  • report some experimental tests of general relativity.
  • have knowledge about cosmological models.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

Vector Analysis.
Electromagnetic Theory.
Mathematical Methods in Physics.

Literature

Ta-Pei Cheng: Relativity, Gravitation and Cosmology, Oxford University Press (2005)

Examination and completion

Grading scale

P, F

Examination

  • INL1 - Assignment, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • TEN1 - Oral exam, 4.5 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Other requirements for final grade

A written exam and assignment

Examiner

No information inserted

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

SCI/Physics

Education cycle

Third cycle

Postgraduate course

Postgraduate courses at SCI/Physics