96397 - Relativity

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student knows the main elements of special relativity and general relativity, the main experimental tests in their support, and the geometric interpretation in terms of spacetime. In particular, the student becomes familiar with relativistic mechanics as well as the use of Einstein's equations for studying gravitational waves, spherically symmetric solutions, and basic properties of black holes.

Course contents

1. Priniciples of special relativity and Lorentz transformations

2. Minkowski spacetime

3. Relativistic dynamics

4. Maxwell's equations in covariant form

5. Equivalence principle and physical foundations of general relativity

6. Curved spaces, Riemannian manifolds, geomety of space-time

7. Dynamics in a gravitational field, Einstein's equations

8. Gravitational waves

9. Schwarzschild metric and black holes

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes

S. Weinberg, Gravitation and Cosmology, Wiley, New York, 1972

H. Ohanian and R. Ruffini: Gravitation and Spacetime, CUP, 2013

Teaching methods

Lectures at the blackboard

Assessment methods

Oral Examination – Approximate duration: 30 minutes The oral examination typically consists of two general questions covering topics discussed during the course. Students are expected to engage in a thorough and critical discussion. The final grade will be based on the accuracy and clarity of the presentation, the ability to construct well-reasoned arguments and analyses, and the capacity to address and clarify conceptually relevant aspects. A grade may be refused at most twice.

Students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) or temporary/permanent disabilities are advised to contact the University Office responsible in a timely manner (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ). The office will be responsible for proposing any necessary accommodations to the students concerned. These accommodations must be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days in advance, and will be evaluated in light of the learning objectives of the course.

Office hours

See the website of Fiorenzo Bastianelli