Nov 24, 2024  
Rensselaer Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Rensselaer Catalog 2024-2025
Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)

ASTR 4240 - Gravitation and Cosmology


Introduction to the physics of gravitation and spacetime. Special relativity, tensor calculus, and relativistic electrodynamics. General relativity with selected applications of Einstein’s field equations (gravitational time dilation; gravitational lensing; frame dragging; gravitational radiation). The physics of nonrotating and rotating black holes. Relativistic models for the large-scale structure of the Universe. Observational constraints on the cosmological parameters. Big Bang nucleosynthesis, the Cosmic Background Radiation. A culminating experience project is required. (Meets with PHYS 4240.)

Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 4330  and MATH 4600 .

When Offered: Spring term annually.

Cross Listed: PHYS 4240 . Students cannot receive credit for both ASTR 4240 and PHYS 4240 .

Credit Hours: 4



Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)