Relativity

Objectives

This course on the special theory of relativity establishes the important concepts and develops the equations necessary for theunder standing of the theory. Physical kinematic effects like space contraction, time dilation and the twin paradox will be explained. Spacetime diagrams will be used. Relativistic dynamical processes will also be introduced and the formula E=mc² deduced.

Program

Galilean relativity. Einstein's principle of special relativity. The spacetime concept and Minkowski diagrams. Physical kinematic effects in special relativity. Law of the addition of velocities. The twin paradox and other paradoxes. Dynamics in special relativity. Relativistic energy and relativistic momentum. Four-vectors and properties of transformatiom. Relativistic collisions. Theequivalence principle and general relativity.

Teaching Methodologies

50%: final exam
30%: continuous assessment via group project resolution and presentation in class.
20% continuous assessment via resolution of series of exercise in class.
An estimated 30% of the continuous assessment will be based on a computing component.Curricular unit grading.

Bibliography

Introduction to Special Relativity, R. Resnick, 1968, Wiley, New York ; Special Relativity, A. P. French, 1968, Norton, New York;Relativity:

The Special and the General Theory, A. Einstein, 1920, or any other edition, Holt and Company, New York;

SpacetimePhysics , E. F. Taylor, J. A. Wheeler, 1966, second edition 1992, W. H. Freeman, New York