PHY304 Relativity and Cosmology (8)

Twenty first century technology is based on the concepts of Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity. Quantum mechanics is the basis of quantum computing and nanotechnologies while general relativity is essential for global positioning systems and cutting edge cosmological research. Quantum mechanics is covered in PHY302. PHY304 will complement this subject by extending special relativity introduced in PHY216 to its generalised form including gravity and its applications. The subject is suitable as a basis for further studies and research or teaching in Physics.

This subject begins by presenting students with the mathematical basis of tensor calculus required for the study of general relativity. This is followed by introducing the curvature of space-time and its relationship to gravitation. The students are then introduced to more advanced applications, Einsteins equation, the Schwarzschild solution and cosmology.

Subject Outlines
Current CSU students can view Subject Outlines for recent sessions. Please note that Subject Outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PHY304. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Dentistry and Health Sciences

Assumed Knowledge

It is assumed that students have studied physics from first and second year (PHY101, PHY102, PHY216) and have the appropriate level of mathemtical background specifically in multivariable vector caculus and differential equations. Assumed subject knowledge PHY216 Modern Physics.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to explain and apply the concepts of special relativity
  • be able to solve conceptual and mathematical problems using tensor calculus
  • be able to describe and explain the curvature of space-time
  • be able to describe and explain gravitation in the context of general relativity
  • be able to analyse and apply the concepts of general relativity to cosmology
  • be able to solve conceptual and mathematical problems in gravitation and cosmology

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Special relativity
  • Tensor calculus
  • Space-time curvature
  • Gravitation
  • Cosmology

Contact

Current Students

For any enquiries about subject selection or course structure please contact Student Central or ask@csu.edu.au or phone on 1800 275 278.

Prospective Students

For further information about Charles Sturt University, or this course offering, please contact info.csu on 1800 275 278 (free call within Australia) or enquire online.

The information contained in the 2018 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: August 2018. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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