Course Description

This is a graduate course in general relativity. We will cover the mathematical framework behind Einstein's theory, the formulation of Einstein's equations, the Schwarzschild and Kerr metrics, gravitational radiation, and cosmology. The textbook for the course is Spacetime and Geometry (2nd Edition) by Sean Carroll (2003, Pearson ISBN 978-0805387322 or Cambridge University Press ISBN 978-1108770385). 

Additional texts that may be of use to students are General Relativity by Robert Wald and Gravitation by Misner, Thorne, and Wheeler (i.e. the giant black book about gravity). Neither are required for the course.

In my experience, the meaning behind the equations in GR is best grasped if you, the student, are actively writing them down yourself. Understanding where the mus and nus go and why they go there is part of GR, and at least for me, writing imparted that lesson better than just reading. I stronglyencourage you to take notes during lecture. Also, if you take notes using LaTeX, I warn you up front that TeXing GR tends to go slower than you'd expect -- there are important orderings of raised and lowered indices that take some planning to TeX correctly. Handwriting might be more effective.

Grading

  • Grades will be based on weekly problem sets (100% of final grade).

  • Weekly homework will be assigned on Thursday in class and due on the following Thursday in class.

  • Collaboration with other students is strongly encouraged, but your write-up of the solutions must be your own. You must also cite any external sources you use (other than the textbook).

  • Ideally, solutions should be typed (in LaTeX), but handwritten solutions are acceptable as long as they are clearly written.

  • It is my usual policy that late homework will automatically receive a maximum of half points. Seek arrangement with me at least 24 hours in advance if you think you have a legitimate excuse for late work. After I have posted solutions for a homework, I will not accept submissions for that assignment.  

Office Hours

Regular office hours for the semester are Monday 1-2 and Wednesday 10-11 (in person)

Extra meetings can be held by appointment.

Student Accommodations

If you require special accommodation in the course, please speak with me as early in the semester as possible. Visit this linkLinks to an external site. for information on Rutgers policies.