PHYS 5240

Introduction to the Theory of General Relativity

Course Description

Pre-Requisite(s): Advanced calculus through partial differentiation and multiple integration; vector analysis in three dimensions

Reviews special relativity and coordinate transformations. Includes the principle of equivalence; effects of gravitation on other systems and fields; general tensor analysis in curved spaces and gravitational field equations; Mach's principle, tests of gravitational theories; perihelion precession, red shift, bending of light, gyroscopic precession, radar echo delay; gravitational radiation; relativisitic stellar structure and cosmography; and cosmology.


  • Paul Fendley

     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.49

     Sections

    Last Taught

    Spring 2010

  • Julian Heeck

     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.35

     Sections

    Last Taught

    Spring 2023

  • Michael Fowler

     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.33

     Sections

    Last Taught

    Spring 2015

  • Kento Yagi

     Rating

    4.33

     Difficulty

    5.00

     GPA

    3.29

     Sections

    Last Taught

    Fall 2024

  • Pham Hung

     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

     Sections

    Last Taught

    Spring 2017