CosmologyProfessor Herman Bondi, one of the proponents of the Steady State Theory, presented this volume as an account that would establish cosmology as a distinct branch of physics. First published in 1952, just a few years after the term 'the Big Bang' was coined, it represents an important stage in the development of cosmology. With detailed discussions of different theories including Newtonian cosmology, relativistic cosmology and kinematic relativity, it gives a remarkable insight into scientific thought at this crucial time. It will be most useful to anyone with an interest in the history of science or the progression of scientific ideas. |
Contents
Physics and Cosmology | 3 |
The Cosmological Principle | 11 |
Astrophysical and Geophysical Data | 51 |
II | 57 |
Theoretical Concepts | 65 |
Newtonian Cosmology | 75 |
Kinematic Relativity | 90 |
The SteadyState Theory | 130 |
The Theories of Eddington Dirac and Jordan | 157 |
The Present Position in Cosmology | 165 |
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Common terms and phrases
3-space Accordingly actual universe argument assumed assumption Astr astronomical Astrophys atomic average Chapter clock clusters condensation conservation of mass considered const coordinates cosmic deductive definite density of matter determined difficulty Dirac discussed distance distant nebulae Doppler shift dynamics Eddington effect Einstein energy expansion factor field equations formulation function fundamental observers fundamental particles galaxy geodesics gravitational hence homogeneity HOYLE Hubble Hubble's constant hydrogen hypothesis implies importance inertia intergalactic interpretation isotropy K-term kinematic relativity laws lead light rays light-years Lorentz transformations luminosity luminosity distance Mach's principle magnitude mathematical MCCREA mean density measurements Milne Milne's motion Newtonian theory number counts number of nebulae objects Olbers perfect cosmological principle physics position possible postulate present problem question radiation radius ratio reference relativistic cosmology significance space special relativity stars steady-state theory stellar substratum t-time theory of relativity time-scale velocity of light Weyl's postulate μν