This book discusses in great detail the best theory of gravitation known to date: Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity.
Based on this theory, Gravitation examines compact objects (including white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes) and gravitational waves, and then explores the importance of relativity in cosmology, the Big Bang and the organization of structure in the universe.
Many practical examples are also provided throughout the book.
Table of Contents
Symbols and Constants ix
Chapter 1. General Relativity 1
Brahim LAMINE
1.1. The fundamentals of general relativity 1
1.2. Tensor analysis and curvature of space-time 33
1.3. General relativity equations 68
1.4. References 104
Chapter 2. Compact Objects 107
Natalie WEBB
2.1. Introduction 107
2.2. White dwarfs 109
2.3. Neutron stars 120
2.4. Black holes 140
2.5. Binary systems 153
2.6. References 170
Chapter 3. Gravitational Waves 179
Patrice HELLO
3.1. Gravitational waves in the context of general relativity 179
3.2. Detection of gravitational waves 201
3.3. Gravitational wave astronomy 227
3.4. The future 249
3.5. References 249
Chapter 4. The Friedmann-Lemaître Universe and Cosmological Expansion 253
Richard TAILLET
4.1. Geometry 254
4.2. Cosmological expansion 261
4.3. The Friedmann-Lemaitre equations 268
4.4. Temporal evolution 275
4.5. Horizons 294
4.6. Distances 303
4.7. The redshift-luminosity relation 311
4.8. Angular size distance 317
4.9. Cosmological supernovas 321
4.10. Conclusion 332
4.11. References 335
List of Authors 337
Index 339
