Cosmology is a branch of physics concerned with the evolution, general structure and nature of the universe as a whole. It has become an increasingly high-profile subject with many universities attempting to bring it to the forefront of the undergraduate syllabus. A popular choice with undergraduates, cosmology is a field in which mathematical theory comes together with physics in a dynamic and fast developing subject. This second edition of a title first published in 1998 provides an introduction to the subject.

Table of Contents

Preface. Constants conversion factors and symbols. 1. A (Very) Brief History of Cosmological Ideas. 2. Observational Overview. 3. Newtonian Gravity. 4. The Geometry of the Universe. 5. Simple Cosmological Models. 6.Observational Parameters. 7. The Cosmological Constant. 8. The Age of the Universe. 9. The Density of the Universe and Dark Matter. 10. The Cosmic Microwave Background. 11. The Early Universe. 12. Nucleosynthesis: The Origin of the Light Elements. 13. The Inflationary Universe. 14. The Initial Singularity. 15. Overview: The Standard Cosmological Model. Advanced Topic 1: General Relativistic Cosmology Advanced Topic 2: Classic Cosmology: Distances and Luminosities. Advanced Topic 3: Neutrino Cosmology. Advanced Topic 4: Baryogenesis. Advanced Topic 5: Structures in the Universe. Bibliography. Numerical answers and hints to problems. Index.

About the Author

Andrew Liddle is Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Sussex. Research interests include the origin and evolution of structure in the universe and the relation between astronomical observations and the physics of the early universe.

Reviews

"...complete and up--to--date...an excellent introduction of cosmology, and at this level it is hard to beat...highly recommended." (Choice, Vol. 41, No. 6, February 2004)