The Scalar-Tensor Theory of Gravitation
The scalar-tensor theory of gravitation is one of the most popular alternatives to Einstein's theory of gravitation. This book provides a clear and concise introduction to the theoretical ideas and developments, exploring scalar fields and placing them in context with a discussion of Brans-Dicke theory. Topics covered include the cosmological constant problem, time variability of coupling constants, higher dimensional space-time, branes and conformal transformations. The authors emphasize the physical applications of the scalar-tensor theory and thus provide a pedagogical overview of the subject, keeping more mathematically detailed sections for the appendices. This book is suitable for graduate courses in cosmology, gravitation and relativity. It will also provide a valuable reference for researchers.
- The scalar-tensor theory is one of the most popular alternative theories of gravitation
- Covers developments in the field and emphasizes the physical applications of the theory
- Pedagogical: explains the physical principles and consequences while keeping the mathematics at a simple level
Reviews & endorsements
'This book is an excellent readable introduction and up-to-date review of the subject.' Classical and Quantum Gravity
'I found the book to be a clearly written exposition of scalar-tensor theory, which extends to include many current issues in the field and some important ramifications of string theory cosmology … I would certainly recommend this book to anyone wishing to acquire a solid introductory grounding in the area.' Mathematics Today
'… this book gives an excellent pedagogical overview of the scalar-tensor theories. It provides a good background for young researchers to start their own investigations in this field. It is also suitable as a textbook for graduate courses in cosmology and gravitation.' General Relativity and Gravitation
'… a clear and concise introduction to the theoretical ideas and developments …' Zentralblatt MATH
Product details
July 2007Paperback
9780521037525
260 pages
244 × 170 × 14 mm
0.42kg
30 b/w illus. 2 tables
Available
Table of Contents
- Preface
- Conventions and notation
- 1. Introduction
- 2. The prototype Brans-Dicke model
- 3. Conformal transformation
- 4. Cosmology with Λ
- 5. Models of an accelerating universe
- 6. Quantum effects
- Appendices
- References
- Index.