SPECIAL RELATIVITY

SPECIAL RELATIVITY
Course Code
MX 4536
Credit Points
15
Course Coordinator
TBC

Pre-requisites

Either: (a) MA 2507 and MA 2506; or: (b) MA 2507 and PX 2014.

Notes

Special Option. Not available in session 2011/12.

Overview

The failure of the Newtonian model of physics. The basic principles of the Special Theory of Relativity. The Lorentz transformation and its applications, including length and time dilation. The kinematics of particles. 4-vectors and Minkowski space. The dynamics of particles, momentum, energy and force. Relativistic optics. Collision problems.

Structure

12 week course - 2 one-hour lectures per week and 1 one-hour tutorial per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (80%); in-course assessment (20%).

Resit: If required and permitted by Regulations, there will be 1 two-hour written examination. The CAS mark will be based on the maximum of examination (100%) and examination (80%) together with in-course assessment (20%).