This book, the first in a three-volume set, explains general relativity using the mathematical tool of differential geometry. The book consists of ten chapters, the first five of which introduce differential geometry, which is widely applicable even outside the field of relativity.

Topological Spaces in Brief.- Manifolds and Tensor Fields.- The Riemann (Intrinsic) Curvature Tensor.- Lie Derivative, Killing Fields and Hypersurfaces.- Differential Forms and Their Integrals.- Special Relativity.- Foundations of General Relativity.- Solving the Einstein’s Equation.- Schwarzschild Spacetimes.- Cosmology.- Appendix: The Conversion Between Systems of Geometrized and Nongeometrized Units.

This book, the first in a three-volume set, explains general relativity using the mathematical tool of differential geometry. The book consists of ten chapters, the first five of which introduce differential geometry, which is widely applicable even outside the field of relativity. Chapter 6 analyzes special relativity using geometric language. In turn, the last four chapters introduce readers to the fundamentals of general relativity. Intended for beginners, this volume includes numerous exercises and worked-out example in each chapter to facilitate the learning experience. Chiefly written for graduate-level courses, the book’s content will also benefit upper-level undergraduate students, and can be used as a reference guide for practicing theoretical physicists.

A textbook for graduate-level courses on general relativity Includes both essential and optional reading sections to meet the needs of readers at various levels Uses pedagogic features including numerous exercises, examples, and illustrations to elaborate on difficult concepts