ASTRO 1106

Relativity, Cosmology, and Black Holes

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2020-2021.

Explanation of Einstein's theory of Special Relativity, which brought about a fundamental change in our conceptual understanding of space and time. The consequences of the theory: the relativity of simultaneity; mass-energy equivalence, nuclear fission and fusion and thermonuclear processes in starts; why we can't travel faster than the speed of light; and how it all makes sense, including the resolution of some apparent paradoxes. Cosmology, studying the evidence for the evolution and future of the universe, and the considerations and evidence driving our theories, including an introduction to General Relativity and investigation of Dark Matter and Dark Energy. The death of stars: white dwarfs, neutron stars and pulsars, and black holes.

When Offered Summer.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: high school algebra and trigonometry.

Distribution Category (PBS-AS, PHS-AS)

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