We introduce topics in cosmology as in the syllabus below.
Expected math background: calculus, some basic knowledge about mathematical methods in physics such as differential equations and Fourier transform.
Expected physics background: general physics, some basic knowledge about special relativity, quantum mechanics, thermal and statistical physics.
General relativity will neither be a prerequisite nor being taught in detail in this course (though we will briefly introduce the idea of general relativity to give you a feeling).
Grading: 20% assignments + 30% mid-term exam + 50% final exam
Time and Venue: WeFr 4:30PM - 5:50PM, Room 4504 (Lift 25/26)
Lecture notes: Available on Canvas after the lectures.
Syllabus:
- Introduction
- Fundamental Observations
- Newton versus Einstein
- Cosmic Dynamics
- Single-Component Universes
- Multiple-Component Universes
- Measuring Cosmological Parameters
- Dark Matter
- The Cosmic Microwave Background
- Nucleosynthesis and the Early Universe
- Inflation and the Very Early Universe
- The Formation of Structure
References: Introduction to Cosmology by Barbara Ryden