Year: 2009
Type: preprint
Abstract: We present a self-contained introduction to the classical theory of spacetime and fields. This exposition is based on the most general principles: the principle of general covariance (relativity) and the principle of least action. The order of the exposition is: 1. Spacetime (principle of general covariance and tensors, affine connection, curvature, metric, space and time, tetrad and spin connection, Lorentz group, spinors); 2. Fields (principle of least action, gravitational field, matter, symmetries and conservation laws, particle limit of field, gravitational field equations, spinor fields, electromagnetic field). In this order, a particle is a special case of a field existing in spacetime, and classical mechanics can be derived from field theory.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Author: Popławski, Nikodem
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3040464558