The Mathematical Theory of Relativity

by Arthur Stanley Eddington

Sir Arthur Eddington here formulates mathematically his conception of the world of physics derived from the theory of relativity. The argument is developed in a form which throws light on the origin and significance of the great laws of physics; its consequences are followed to the full extent in the consideration of gravitation, relativity, mechanics, space-time, electromagnetic phenomena and world geometry.

Genres: Physics, Science, Nonfiction

284 pages, Paperback

Published November 30, 1923

About the author

Sir Arthur Stanley Eddington, OM, FRS was a British astrophysicist of the early 20th century. The Eddington limit, the natural limit to the luminosity of stars, or the radiation generated by accretion onto a compact object, is named in his honour.

He is famous for his work regarding the Theory of Relativity. Eddington wrote a number of articles which announced and explained Einstein's theory of general relativity to the English-speaking world. World War I severed many lines of scientific communication and new developments in German science were not well known in England. He also conducted an expedition to observe the Solar eclipse of May 29, 1919 that provided one of the earliest confirmations of relativity, and he became known for his popular expositions and interpretations of the theory.

Reviews

[Remus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I use this book from time to time to refer to some of the mathematical tools used in relativity. For instance, I recently used it to see how the Reimann curvature tensor is worked out. For anyone reading this book in the last decade, I think the most problematic part is the old notation used; once you get used to it I would say you can have a working reference.

This book is not, however, very explanatory, and you have to read with patience and re-read again, make some exercises on your own etc.. to really understand what is being presented. Its advantage is that it is quite advanced while being kind of old, so it does get you through some of the topics in a language that you should be able to understand (note: if you have some undergrad courses in physics and math, say mid level or advanced).