| Lectures: Valery Rubakov |
Introduction to the theory of the early Universe (Semesters 6-7)
Cosmology is closely related to physics of microworld that studies elementary particles and their interactions at the most fundamental level. This course treats cosmology from precisely this prospective.
The first part of the course elaborates on the theory of the homogeneous and isotropic Universe at the hot epoch of its evolution and later stages. This part of cosmology is often dubbed the Hot Big Bang Theory. The second part is dedicated to inflationary theory, theory of post-inflationary reheating and theory of generation and evolution of cosmological perturbations, i.e., inhomogeneities in the Universe.
During the course, students get acquainted with experimental and observational aspects, such as anisotropies of the Cosmic Microwave Background, structure formation, search for dark matter particles in underground and collider experiments, etc. The course is accompanied by an extensive set of problems which are discussed at problem solving sessions.
After having studied the course, students must be able to read specialized literature on cosmology in its relationship with particle physics, and begin doing research.
Supplimentary data
Literature
- D.S. Gorbunov, V.A. Rubakov, "Introduction to the Theory of the Early Universe: Hot Big Bang Theory." World Scientific, 2011.
- D.S. Gorbunov, V.A. Rubakov, "Introduction to the Theory of the Early Universe: Cosmological Perturbations and Inflationary Theory." World Scientific, 2011.
- E.W. Kolb, M.S. Turner, "The Early Universe." Addison--Wesley, 1990.
- V. Mukhanov, "Physical Foundations of Cosmology." Cambridge University Press, 2005.
