Introduction to GR for Self-Study

[ashrag]

Hi
Can someone suggest a book along the lines of "space-time physics"(wheelerand taylor) which gives conceptual clarity to study (self) along with Schutz GR
Thanks

 

[Daverz]

Hartle, Gravity.

Also, Taylor & Wheeler's Exploring Black Holes is a sort of sequel to Spacetime Physics.

 

[ashrag]

Also , what level of maths is a prerequisite ? I have studied calculus from Thomas and Finney and parts of ML Boas. Is it enough ? If what texts must I read .What further texts will aid my learning of this book as I plan to self study and don't have a teacher around.
Thanks

 

[naele]

Multivariable calculus is sufficient for Hartle. He doesn't get into full tensor formulation until the last few chapters. But since you've studied out of Boas, that book has a chapter on tensors which you might find helpful to work through.

 

[ashrag]

And for Schutz ?

 

[naele]

Same really. Schutz teaches you everything you need at the very beginning and works through special relativity in that formalism. It might be helpful to review the linear algebra + tensor chapters in Boas just so you can move through the mathematics at a quicker pace and get to the physics.

 

[Goldbeetle]

Special relativity: "A Traveller's Guide to Spacetime"
General Relativity: "The Einstein theory of Relativity" by Lillian Lieber
(the latter has also an excellent basic introduction to classic tensors
and covariant differentiation)

Then move to Hartle and Schutz.