An Introduction to Cosmology

Description

The third edition of this successful textbook is fully updated and includes important recent developments in cosmology. It begins with an introduction to cosmology and general relativity, and goes on to cover the mathematical models of standard cosmology. The physical aspects of cosmology, including primordial nucleosynthesis, the astroparticle physics of inflation, and the current ideas on structure formation are discussed. Alternative models of cosmology are reviewed, including the model of Quasi-Steady State Cosmology, which has recently been proposed as an alternative to Big Bang Cosmology. The final chapters discuss observational cosmology, and debate theory versus observational methods. The book includes 400 problems and numerous worked examples. This introductory textbook describes modern cosmology at a level suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduates who are familiar with mathematical methods and basic theoretical physics. It is intended for use on courses in theoretical physics, astrophysics or applied mathematics that include modern cosmology.

'... the quality of the text is at the high level the author's reputation would suggest '. Astronomy & Geophysics '... a really excellent set of lecture notes which add up to a very accessible text on what is often misrepresented as an extremely esoteric subject ... due to its clarity, straight-forward style, and scope, this book has long been a favourite of students.' Dominic Clancy, The Observatory 'The student can gain some early practice by looking at the examples presented here. They will also obtain a rigorous overview of the present observational data that will need to be incorporated into any model that wishes to displace present big bang cosmology.' Contemporary Physics