Introduction to the Relativity Principle
Samenvatting
Relativity, almost a hundred years old in its classic Einsteinian form, is one of the most fascinating threads running through science from Galileo′s day to ours. This book, based on a short course at the University of Sussex, presents relativity as a natural outgrowth of dynamics: the concepts are introduced through careful physical reasoning and simple mathematics, and are then applied over a wide range, well meshed with current undergraduate syllabuses. Features
∗ An accessible introduction through pre–Einstein relativity
∗ Scrupulously assessed experimental evidence (mostly modern)
∗ Elementary mathematics, aimed at a working acquaintance with kinematics, energy and momentum conservation, and the propagation of plane waves
∗ The book includes many carefully chosen examples and student problems
Introduction to the Relativity Principle is suitable for undergraduates studying physics, also as a preliminary to more formal courses designed for mathematicians.
Specificaties
Inhoudsopgave
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<br /> The Relativity Principle, and its Applications in Newtonian Physics.
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<br /> Einstein′s Relativity Principle.
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<br /> KINEMATICS.
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<br /> Lorentz Transformations.
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<br /> Invariant Intervals and Space–Time Diagrams.
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<br /> Proper Time and Nonuniform Motion.
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<br /> Four–Vectors.
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<br /> Four–Acceleration.
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<br /> MOMENTUM AND ENERGY.
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<br /> Particle Dynamics: Momentum and Energy.
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<br /> Natural Units, and the Prevalence of MeV.
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<br /> Systems of Particles: Four–Momentum Conservation using Invariants.
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<br /> WAVES.
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<br /> Plane Waves.
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<br /> Light Waves in Empty Space: Aberration and Doppler Effect.
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<br /> Appendices.
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<br /> Problems.
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<br /> Index.