Special Relativity: From Einstein to Strings

Description

This thorough introduction to Einstein's special theory of relativity is suitable for anyone with a minimum of one year of undergraduate physics with calculus. The authors cover every aspect of special relativity, including the impact of special relativity in quantum theory, with an introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. They also discuss the group theory of the Lorentz group, supersymmetry, and such cutting-edge topics as general relativity, the standard model of elementary particles and its extensions, and superstring theory, giving a survey of important unsolved problems. The book is accompanied by an interactive CD-ROM illustrating classic problems in relativity involving motion.

'This well-written book will be extremely helpful for physics students who wish to go beyond what is most commonly taught and to delve more deeply into special relativity, for its own sake or as a starting point for understanding general relativity and gravitation. The authors treat many modern topics in addition to the classical material.' Professor Edward Witten, Princeton Institute for Advanced Study 'Patricia and John Schwarz have created an elegant book that uses special relativity to organize a sophisticated discussion of Maxwell theory, differential geometry, symmetry, and field dynamics. This book will reveal to the student the powerful tools that enhance our comprehension of physical theories.' Professor Barton Zwiebach, Massachusetts Institute of Technology ' ... the book is well structured and organized, each treatment of a particular topic flowing nicely into the next ... this is an ideal book for anyone wishing to obtain a good grounding in special relativity ...' Mathematics Today