Repetition of tensor notation. The meaning of relativity. Einstein’s postulates. Geometry of Minkowski space and Lorentz transformation. Length contraction and time dilation. Twin paradox and proper time. Relativistic optics. Relativistic mechanics. Electrodynamics. Hamilton and Lagrange formalism in relativity.
FSH3371 Special Relativity 7.5 credits
The course offers a modern introduction to special relativity and its use in recent research. The focus is on understanding the geometry of spacetime, electromagnetism, and experimental tests of the theory.
Information per course offering
Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.
Course syllabus as PDF
Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.
Course syllabus FSH3371 (Autumn 2023–)Headings with content from the Course syllabus FSH3371 (Autumn 2023–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
After completion of the course you should be able to:
- Use tensor notation in relativity.
- Use Lorentz transformations.
- Apply the concepts of length contraction and time dilation.
- Describe experimental tests of special relativity.
- Use and solve problems in relativistic optics.
- Use and solve problems in relativistic mechanics (including kinematic problems).
- Analyze Maxwell’s equations and use their relativistic invariance.
- Explain the principle of relativity.
- Perform simple analyses using the Hamilton and Lagrange formalisms in special relativity.
- Independently deepen your knowledge in how the course contents may be used in current research and sumarize new knowledge in a report.
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
Vector analysis
Electromagnetic Theory
Mathematical Methods in Physics
Literature
You can find information about course literature either in the course memo for the course offering or in the course room in Canvas.
Examination and completion
Grading scale
P, F
Examination
- TEN1 - Written exam, 6.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- PRO1 - Project, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
In the normal case, TEN1 is a written exam and corresponds to the exam in SI2371. PRO1 is normally a written report testing deepened knowledge and ability for independent studies within a specialized area as well as an oral discussion surrounding the report.
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Course room in Canvas
Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.
Offered by
Education cycle
Third cycle
Additional regulations
The course cannot be part of a degree together with SI2371.