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Research School of Physics · ANU College of Science and Medicine
With the spectacular first direct detection of gravitational waves in 2015, General Relativity theory is now arguably the most successful theory of modern physics. This course provides an introduction to the concepts and tools of GR and to its applications in cosmology, gravitational wave theory and gravitational wave detection. The full geometric structure underpinning the theory will be developed, leading to the Einstein Field equation and an in-depth study of the Schwarzschild black hole. We will study the application of GR theory to cosmology as well as its prediction of the existence of gravitational waves and the principles of how these waves can be detected on Earth. This course is co-taught with undergraduate students but assessed separately.
5x Assignments-General Relativity
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
3 x Assignments-Gravitational Wave Theory
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
2 x Assignments - Principles of Detection
Learning outcomes 4, 5, 6, 7
Final written exam
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: • Face-to face component which may consist of 3 x 1 hour lectures per week, plus 1 x 1 hour tutorial per week. • Approximately 82 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures and other assessment tasks.
NA Preliminary Reading "A First Course in General Relativity" by B. Schutz (2nd ed., 2009)