Advanced General Relativity

by John Stewart

Overview

A modern self-contained introduction to key topics in advanced general relativity. The opening chapter reviews the subject, with strong emphasis on the geometric structures underlying the theory. The next chapter discusses 2-component spinor theory, its usefulness for describing zero-mass fields, its practical application via Newman-Penrose formalism, together with examples and applications. The subsequent chapter is an account of the asymptotic theory far from a strong gravitational source, describing the mathematical theory by which measurements of the far-field and gravitational radiation emanating from a source can be used to describe the source itself. The final chapter describes the natural characteristic initial value problem, first in general terms, and then with particular emphasis for relativity, concluding with its relation to Arnold's singularity theory. Exercises are included.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521449465
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/26/1993
Series:	Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 8.98(h) x 0.51(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Differential geometry; 2. Spinors; 3. Asymptopia; 4. The characteristic initial value problem; Appendices; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...the theoretical tools for detailed analytical and numerical prediction are becoming increasingly important. Stewart's concise and lucid summary, the only book of its kind, is therefore very timely....a fine and very useful book, which I strongly recommend to all interested in the subject." Malcolm MacCallum, Physics Today

"This is a very well written book, including topics such as spinor algebra, the Newman-Penrose formalism, Dirac spinors, and Lie derivatives. The mathematical proofs are very clear. A large number of exercises make Stewart's text a valuable addition to advanced formal courses in general relativity. The book is also a valuable reference for researchers who have completed their formal education." Joseph Weber, Comments on Astrophysics

"...a good supplement to an advanced general relativity course....a welcome addition to the literature." K.K. Lee, Physics in Canada

From the Publisher