Special relativity
Undergraduate · Physics
Syllabus focus
Standard syllabus · Theoretical / proof-based
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Topics typically covered
Standard syllabus
Kinematics
- Postulates and loss of absolute simultaneity
- Lorentz transformations and velocity addition
- Time dilation and length contraction paradoxes
- Spacetime diagrams and light cones
- Relativistic Doppler effect
Dynamics
- Four-vectors: position, velocity, momentum
- Invariant mass and energy–momentum relation
- Relativistic collisions and thresholds
- Force and acceleration in SR
- Stress–energy tensor preview
Applications
- Particle accelerators and fixed-target vs collider
- GPS and relativistic corrections
- Cosmic ray energies and GZK cutoff (intro)
- Relativistic electromagnetism covariance
- Twin paradox resolution
Theoretical / proof-based
Covariant formalism
- Minkowski metric and index conventions
- Tensor transformations under Lorentz group
- Proper time and worldlines
- Four-momentum conservation proofs
- Generators of boosts and rotations
Electrodynamics in SR
- Covariant Maxwell equations
- Lorentz force four-vector
- Field transformation under boosts
- Electromagnetic stress–energy tensor
- Radiation reaction preview (Abraham–Lorentz)
Advanced topics
- Group theory of the Lorentz group SL(2,C) link
- Causality and Killing vectors
- Rindler coordinates and Unruh effect (intro)
- Relativistic hydrodynamics equations
- Experimental tests: Michelson–Morley to Ives–Stilwell
Notes
Topics reflect common upper-division physics syllabi at US colleges and universities. Prerequisites, lab pairing, and mathematical depth vary by department.