The theories of special and general relativity are presented with applications to black holes and cosmology. Topics to be covered include the following. Metrics and Riemannian tensors. The calculus of variations and Lagrangians. Spaces and space-times of special and general relativity. Photon and particle orbits. Model universes. The Schwarzschild metric and black holes. Gravitational lensing.
Other Information: MATH3329 and PHYS3001, cover relativity, both special and general, and hence are relevant to astronomy. For more details, see the Mathematics and Physics sections of the Undergraduate Handbook.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
1. Explain the fundamental concepts of the theories of special and general relativity and their role in the study of compact stars and modern cosmology.
2. Demonstrate accurate and efficient use of tensor calculus in solving problems in special and general relativity.
3. Demonstrate capacity for mathematical reasoning through analyzing, proving and explaining concepts in the theories of relativity.
4. Solve problems in cosmology and black hole physics in different astrophysical contexts.
Indicative Assessment
Assessment will be based on:
- Assignments (50%; LO 1-4)
- Major project (50%; LO1-4)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
Three lectures per week, tutorials by arrangement.Requisite and Incompatibility
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $3660 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $5160 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
