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:

  1. Introduction
  2. Fundamental Observations
  3. Newton versus Einstein
  4. Cosmic Dynamics
  5. Single-Component Universes
  6. Multiple-Component Universes
  7. Measuring Cosmological Parameters
  8. Dark Matter
  9. The Cosmic Microwave Background
  10. Nucleosynthesis and the Early Universe
  11. Inflation and the Very Early Universe
  12. The Formation of Structure

References: Introduction to Cosmology by Barbara Ryden