How gravity shapes spacetime: exploring Einstein's theory of General Relativity

What is the course about?

Einstein noticed that an observer in a free-falling lift experiences weightlessness and thus cannot distinguish between free fall and the absence of the pull of gravity. Such observers become Einstein’s “privileged” observers, and lead to his equivalence principle.

1) We begin by considering how Einstein formulated his equivalence principle, and assess what this principle tells us about gravity.

2) Arising out of the equivalence principle, we discover an important correlation between gravity and acceleration.

3) Einstein’s theories imply that certain effects of gravity, such as the bending of light and the dilation of time, should be observable. We look at the experiments which have indeed discovered just the effects predicted.

4) We consider the current state of understanding of gravity, the role of geometry in this understanding, the importance of gravity in phenomena such as black holes, and the problems which arise when attempting to reconcile gravity with quantum mechanics.

What will we cover?

1) Einstein’s equivalence principle in his theory of general relativity.
2) The relationship between gravity and acceleration.
3) Gravitational waves, lensing and time dilation.
4) Gravity and geometry, black holes, and quantum particles.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

1) Describe the equivalence principle and how it helps us to understand gravity.
2) Explain the relationship between gravity and acceleration.
3) Recognise gravitational effects such as lensing and time dilation.
4) Identify advances and issues in our understanding of gravity such as black holes and quantum gravity.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course does not require any background in physics or mathematics. All the topics will be explained from first principles. At the same time, the topics covered will also be of interest to those who have already delved into this fascinating area of physics.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The topics will be presented by the tutor with the aid of various audio-visual presentations such as PowerPoints and short video clips. We will discuss questions as a class as they arise. The materials presented will be available on Google Classroom, but you may wish to make your own notes. There will be no requirement for any work outside of class, although the tutor will be happy to discuss any related topics which you have considered.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No oither costs. Please bring a notebook/pen/device if you wish to take notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

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HS181 The physics of time
HS321 When stars collapse: the physics of black holes, from small to supermassive
HS302 Searching for the ultimate particle
HS330 Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physics
HS168 The physics of life
HS293 Astrophysics: an introduction
HS313 The Search for Life Beyond Earth
HS327 Chemistry for Fun, Part 2: Inorganic: burning metals and choking gases!
HS331 Chemistry for Fun, Part 3, Organic: From Alkanes to Amino Acids.