Advanced Cosmology (879F3)
Advanced Cosmology
Module 879F3
Module details for 2024/25.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
In this module we will apply Einstein’s general theory of relativity to understand the dynamical evolution of our Universe and the thermodynamical evolution of the cosmic plasma. We will investigate the theory of cosmic inflation, which provides an elegant resolution to a series of critical problems for the vanilla flavoured standard big bang cosmology. We will then go on to study how the seeds of cosmic structure are amplified through gravitational instability. Finally, we will examine some of the observables that provide us with crucial evidence to constrain the parameters of the cosmological model.
Module learning outcomes
To have a broad understanding of the homogeneous and isotropic Universe and how general relativity may be applied to calculate its evolution.
To demonstrate a deeper understanding of the equations that govern the thermal history of the Universe, in and out of thermal equilibrium and to be able to apply them to solve particular problems, including the case when the Universe contains multiple fluid species..
To have a solid understanding of the motivation for introducing the theory of inflation. To understand the equations that give rise to a cosmic inflation from a scalar field. An important outcome is for the student to be able to critically evaluate an arbitrary single-field slow-roll model of inflation and assess its pros and cons.
To have a detailed understanding of how cosmic structure formation proceeds through gravitational instability on both cosmic scales and on scales within the horizon. To have a qualitative understanding of the observational probes that use clustering statistics to constrain the cosmological model.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 60.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Problem Set | T2 Week 4 | 33.00% |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 8 | 34.00% |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 11 | 33.00% |
| Open Examination | Semester 2 Assessment | 40.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Robert E Smith
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/330705
Prof Matthias Keller
Convenor
/profiles/178720
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