Jul 13, 2025  
Rensselaer Catalog 2025-2026 
    
Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  Degrees Offered
  Degree Types
  Information Directory
  RPI in Brief
  Core Curriculum
  Educational Programs and Resources
  Research Resources and Centers
  Student Experience
  Financial Aid
  Admissions
  Tuition and Fees
  Programs
  Academic Information and Regulations
  Schools
  Departments
  Subject Codes
  Courses
  Administration
  Named Professorships
  The Faculty
  My Portfolio
HELP
Rensselaer Catalog 2025-2026
Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)

ASTR 4240 - General Relativity

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 .)

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 .

Graded: GRADED

Credit Hours: 4


Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)