Spacetime and Singularities: An Introduction

by Gregory L. Naber

Overview

Naber provides an elementary introduction to the geometrical methods and notions used in special and general relativity. Particular emphasis is placed on the ideas concerned with the structure of space-time and that play a role in the Penrose-Hawking singularity theorems. The author's primary purpose is to give a rigorous proof of the simplest of these theorems, by the one that is representative of the whole. He provides exercises and examples at the end of each chapter. No previous exposure either to relativity theory of differential geometry is required of the reader, as necessary concepts are developed when needed, though some restrictions ae imposed on the types of space considered.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521336123
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	03/02/1989
Series:	London Mathematical Society Student Texts , #11
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	8.90(w) x 5.90(h) x 0.60(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. The geometry of Minkowski spacetime; 2. Some concepts from relativistic mechanics; 3. More general spacetimes: gravity; 4. The proof of Hawking's theorem; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...fills a need to introduce the singularity theorems, their concepts and techniques to seniors or beginning graduate students." Physics in Canada

From the Publisher

Naber (mathematics, Cal. State U., Chicago) provides an introduction to the subject for senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students. Particular emphasis is placed on the ideas concerned with the structure of space-time and that play a role in the Penrose- Hawking singularity theorems. The author's primary purpose is to give a rigorous proof of the simplest of these theorems, but one that is representative of the whole. No previous exposure either to relativity theory or differential geometry is required of the reader. No bibliography. Paper edition, $16.95. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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