Special Relativity OpenCourseWare: A Free Undergraduate Physics Class on Special Relativity by MIT

Published Jan 31, 2009

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Einstein's special theory of relativity, as well as his other studies are examined in 'Introduction to Special Relativity,' an OpenCourseWare by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In this free online course, students explore the concepts that made Einstein one of the most revered scientists in history. This course is beneficial to those pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Physics.

Introduction to Special Relativity: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes Yes

Introduction to Special Relativity: Course Description

Albert Einstein revolutionized the world of physics, and his theories and works are introduced in this OpenCourseWare. Based upon the on-campus course from MIT's intensive Independent Activities Period, this course covers a large amount of material in a condensed lecture format. This OpenCourseWare begins by exploring scientific consensus of relativity before Einstein's theories became known. This course then surveys Einstein's principle of relativity and other topics, including kinematic consequences of relativity, relativistic momentum and general relativity. Professor Bruce Knuteson teaches this course and provides comprehensive lecture notes, homework assignments and a reading list. Also included are sample midterm and final exams. The course website recommends taking 'Physics I: Classical Mechanics' and 'Single Variable Calculus' as prerequisites, both of which are available as OpenCourseWare.

Lecture notes, homework assignments, exams and the reading list are all available online for free download. More information can be found on the 'Introduction to Special Relativity' course home page.

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