Theory of Relativity

Volledige vakbeschrijving

The theory of relativity deals with the physical effects of high speed or curvilinear motion and gravity on the structure of space and time. This theory is the unique work of the physicist Albert Einstein, which overthrew earlier physical theories, and redefined the fundamental concepts of space, time, matter, energy, and gravity. Along with quantum mechanics, relativity is a central concept in modern physics. In particular, relativity provides the basis for understanding cosmic processes and the geometry of the universe itself. This intensive course intends to comprehensively train the participants in the essential fundamentals of the theory of relativity. Here we address the major elements of this subject: special relativity, spacetime, mass and energy, Minkowski space, gravity, and cosmology. Each of these subjects is taught on a theoretical level as lecture, and trained on a practical level with group exercises which can be solved during PBL sessions.