The Routledge Companion to the New Cosmology / Edition 2

by Peter Coles

Overview

Just what is Einstein's Theory of Relativity? The Big Bang Theory? Curvature of Spacetime? What do astronomers mean when they talk of a 'flat universe'?
This approachable and authoritative guide to the cosmos answers these questions, and more. Taking advantage of the distinctive Companion format, readers can use the extensive, cross-referenced background chapters as a fascinating and accessible introduction to the current state of cosmological knowledge - or, they can use the convenient A-Z body of entries as a quick reference to a wide range of terms and concepts. Entries include topics such as: Black Hole; Doppler Effect; Fermi, Enrico; Heat Death of the Universe; Life in the Universe; Olber's Paradox; Quantum Field Theory; Supernova; and much more.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781138834644
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	05/21/2015
Series:	Routledge Companions
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	406
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Peter Coles is Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Nottingham.

Table of Contents

Foreword vii

Editor's Preface ix

Acknowledgements xi

Contributors xiii

Part I Modern Cosmology: Observation and Experiment 1

1 Foundations of the New Cosmology Peter Coles 3

2 The Emergence of Cosmic Structure Carlos Frenk 20

3 The Very Early Universe Andrew R. Liddle 37

4 Opening New Windows on the Cosmos Julianne Dalcanton 57

5 The Cosmic Microwave Background Charles H. Lineweaver 77

6 The Universe Through Gravity's Lens Priyamvada Natarajan 99

Part II Key Themes and Major Figures 115

Physical Constants and Common Units 367

Bibliography 369

Index 377

Editorial Reviews

'This book is well designed and integrated, allowing readers to be as selective or comprehensive as their interest permits.' - American Reference Books Annual 2000

'Unquestionaly excellent value.' - ESSSAT-News

'This is a clear and concise introduction.' - Aslib Book Guide

'A helpful manual for students who are non-specialists in this area of investigation.' - Reviews in Religion and Theology

From the Publisher