Univ. Bremen Prof. V. Perlick | Introduction to Cosmology (S2, compulsory, 6 ECTS) |
Learning Outcomes: | Participants are able to understand the basic principles and results of modern cosmology (the cosmological evolution) as well as the observational evidence. |
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Prerequisites | Basic courses in Physics on mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, Astrophysics. |
Program | A short repetition of General Relativity is given, focusing on the parts needed for this course. After a short historical introduction the basic principles of cosmology are defined and discussed. Based on that, the Friedman equations describing the cosmological evolution are derived and interpreted. The results are compared with modern observations from supernova surveys and from the cosmic microwave background. Dark Matter and Dark Energy as well as the inflation model are introduced. The cosmological distance ladder and the cosmological redshift is presented. The cosmological evolution from the Big Bang, the inflationary phase, to recombination, formation of elements, structure formation, formation of stars and galaxies can then be described. Cosmological perturbation methods are outlined and anisotropic world models are discussed. |
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Adopted Textbooks | A list of references will be provided at the start of the semester. |
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