Flat and Curved Space-Times

The present book explains special relativity and the basics of general relativity from a geometric viewpoint. Space-time geometry is emphasized throughout and provides the basis of understanding of the special relativity effects of time dilation length contraction and the relativity of simultaneity. Bondi''s K-calculus is introduced as a simple means of calculating the magnitudes of these effects and leads to a derivation of the Lorentz transformation as a way of unifying these results. The invariant interval of flat space-time is generalised to that of curved space-times and leads to an understanding of the basic properties of simple cosmological models and of the collapse of a star to form a black hole. The appendices enable the advanced student to master the application of four-tensors to the relativistic study of energy and momentum and of electromagnetism. In addition this new edition contains up-to-date information on black holes gravitational collapse and cosmology.