Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2023 - 2024
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Description This module develops the physics of gravitational waves in general relativity, from their generation and propagation to their observable consequences. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Predict gravitational waveforms in novel physical systems using the quadrupole formula and identify when such results are reliable. 2. Predict the physical effects of gravitational waves in novel situations, using this to analyze and propose potential detection strategies. 3. Compute and contrast the effects of different background geometries on the propagation of gravitational waves. 4. Translate between exact, linearized, and high-frequency models of gravitational waves, identifying their limitations and applying them to make predictions about novel physical systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and
Learning Activities Gravitational waves as linear perturbationsLinearized Einstein equation in flat and curved backgrounds, TT gauge, quadrupole formula, Green functions and tailsGeometric optics for gravitational wavesHigh-frequency limits as tools to convert PDEs to ODEs, separating gravitational waves and backgrounds, effective stress-energy tensorsExact models for gravitational wavesExact plane wave solutions, relation with TT-gauge perturbation theory, features not captured by linearized theory, wave-wave interactionGravitational wave observablesConnection with geodesic deviation, effects on pulsar timing, interferometers, and star positions, memory effectsGravitational wave sources and their detectionSources, frequency bands, implications for detection. Ground and space-based gravitational wave detectors. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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