Module overview
General relativity is the theory of spacetime and gravity developed by Einstein. This module aims to develop a geometric understanding of general relativity and explore advanced applications of GR. In particular, we will study the physics of black holes (regions of spacetime which are causally disconnected from the rest of the Universe), uncovering their surprising properties.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Understanding of the use of general relativity in describing strong gravity phenomena.
- Understanding of the foundations of general relativity.
- Assimilation of material from multiple sources to produce a coherent understanding of a topic.
- Ability to extract key ideas from complex research literature.
Syllabus
•understand the mathematics of GR;
•derive the Einstein equations, with simple matter sources, from an action principle;
•determine the symmetries of a given metric;
•understand various definitions of mass and angular momentum in general relativity;
•understand the properties of black hole spactimes;
•understand the laws of black hole mechanics;
•use the above tools to independently study more advanced topics.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, notes and private study
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Independent Study | 114 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
R.M.Wald. General relativity. University of Chicago Press.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 50% |
| Individual written report | 30% |
| Individual Oral Presentation | 20% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Individual written report | 50% |
| Coursework | 50% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 50% |
| Individual written report | 50% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External