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Comparing Einstein to Newton via the post-Newtonian expansions

by

Dr Todd Oliynyk


Location: 7.15 Innova21

Date: Friday, 19 August

Time: 15:10

Abstract: Einstein's general relativity is presently the most accurate theory of gravity. To completely determine the gravitational field, the Einstein field equations must be solved. These equations are extremely complex and outside of a small set of idealized situations, they are impossible to solve directly. However, to make physical predictions or understand physical phenomena, it is often enough to find approximate solutions that are governed by a simpler set of equations. For example, Newtonian gravity approximates general relativity very well in regimes where the typical velocity of the gravitating matter is small compared to the speed of light. Indeed, Newtonian gravity successfully explains much of the behaviour of our solar system and is a simpler theory of gravity. However, for many situations of interest ranging from binary star systems to GPS satellites, the Newtonian approximation is not accurate enough; general relativistic effects must be included. This desire to include relativistic corrections to Newtonian gravity lead to the development of the post-Newtonian expansions.

The Colloquium will be followed by a reception for our speaker in the Staff Tea Room with wine and nibbles to which all are invited.

Todd's home-page

Slides of his talk