In Minkowski-Space the space-time of special relativity is discussed on the basis of fundamental results of space-time theory. This idea has the consequence that the Minkowski-space can be characterized by 5 axioms, which determine its geometrical and kinematical structure completely. In this sense Minkowski-Space is a prolegomenon for the formulation of other branches of special relativity, like mechanics, electrodynamics, thermodynamics etc. But these applications are not subjects of this book.

Contents

Basic properties of special relativity
Further properties of Lorentz matrices
Further properties of Lorentz transformations
Decomposition of Lorentz matrices and Lorentz transformations
Further structures on Ms
Tangent vectors in Ms
Orientation
Kinematics on Ms
Some basic notions of relativistic theories

Autorentext

Joachim Schröter, University of Paderborn, Germany.