The Theory of Relativity

A graduate-level text for students in physics and mathematics, this book extends beyond mathematical derivations to elaborate on the physical ideas underlying relativity. The author, who based this volume on a series of lectures delivered at the University of Delhi, avoids the use of telegraphic language and presents a clear and coherent discussion of Einstein’s special and general relativity theories.

A historical introduction imparts details of the circumstances that led to the emergence and development of relativity theory. Part One focuses on the special theory, in terms of space-time transformations, its four-dimensional formulation, its mechanics and optics, and its relation to electromagnetism. Part Two examines the general theory, discussing general transformations in the space-time continuum, the geometrization of gravitation, experimental tests of Einstein’s theory of gravitation, and relativistic cosmology.

Numerous problems appear throughout the text, and practical appendixes feature information on the differential geometry of a curved surface.