The Physical and Mathematical Foundations of the Theory of Relativity
Product information for The Physical and Mathematical Foundations of the Theory of Relativity
Discover a rigorous and insightful exploration of relativity with this essential textbook from Springer Shop. The Physical and Mathematical Foundations of the Theory of Relativity provides a critical and mathematically precise presentation, designed for those who seek a deep understanding beyond standard treatments. This book uniquely emphasizes a critical analysis of the very foundations of general relativity. It carefully guides you through the logical transitions from classical mechanics to special relativity and then to the full framework of general relativity, building a profound and nuanced comprehension. Beginning with a review of differential geometry and classical mechanics, the text introduces special relativity through both Einstein's physical approach and Minkowski's elegant mathematical model. It then offers extensive coverage of often-overlooked topics, including the relativistic thermodynamics of continua and electromagnetic fields in matter. A standout feature is the authors' critical approach to general relativity, which thoughtfully addresses the challenge of interpreting physical meaning from mathematical statements, such as the role of coordinates. This prepares you to engage with advanced concepts like the Schwarzschild model of space-time, black holes, and cosmological models derived from the Friedman equations. Ideal for graduate students in physics and mathematics with a background in real analysis and classical mechanics, this volume is perfect for advanced courses. It also serves as a vital resource for researchers and physicists aiming to delve into the subtleties of these theories and participate in contemporary scholarly discussions. Find this and other specialized titles at link.springer.com.
