Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell

by A. Zee
Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell cover
Good Books rating 4.27
Science and Innovation
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  • ID: 7045
  • Added: 2025-12-09
  • Updated: 2025-12-09
  • ISBN: 9780691145587
  • Publisher: Princeton University Press
  • Published: 2013-05-05
  • Reviews: 3

Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell offers a unique and engaging introduction to Einstein's general theory of relativity, blending wit and incisiveness to make complex concepts accessible. Author A. Zee takes readers on a journey from the fundamentals of Newtonian mechanics to the exciting frontiers of contemporary research, including de Sitter and anti-de Sitter spacetimes, Kaluza-Klein theory, and brane worlds. The book emphasizes the action principle and group theory as guiding principles in constructing physical theories, setting it apart from other texts on Einstein gravity. Zee's spiral teaching style makes the material approachable for beginners, while historical anecdotes and advanced mathematical topics, such as differential forms, cater to both students and experts. The extensive discussion of black holes covers rotating and extremal black holes and Hawking radiation, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject. /n/n This ideal textbook for undergraduate and graduate students also serves as an essential resource for professional physicists and scientifically minded lay readers. It features numerous exercises and detailed appendices covering a multitude of topics not readily found elsewhere. The book's friendly approach to the required mathematics, combined with its engaging style, makes it a valuable addition to any physics library. A solutions manual is also available for instructors, enhancing its utility as a teaching tool.

Reviews
Quora · 2015-01-01
good 4.00

The book is a good resource, with an expert author who uses an informal style. It covers a wide range of topics in quantum field theory.

This book is highly recommended for its expert insights and approachable style. The author's informal tone makes the subject matter more engaging and easier to grasp. It covers a broad spectrum of topics, making it a versatile resource for both students and professionals. The book's strength lies in its ability to simplify complex concepts without sacrificing depth, making it a valuable addition to any physics library.

Quick quotes

    It's a good book. Zee is an expert in the field.

    His style is bit informal which is welcome for a subject like quantum field theory.

    There are two approaches to teaching General Relativity: the one followed by textbooks.

David Marx Book Reviews · 2013-11-12
informative 4.50

The book is both enjoyable and informative. It provides a comprehensive overview of Einstein's general theory of relativity in an accessible manner.

This book stands out for its ability to make complex theories understandable. The author does an excellent job of balancing technical details with engaging explanations, making it suitable for both beginners and those with some background in the subject. The informal style is refreshing and helps to demystify the intricacies of general relativity. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this fascinating field.

Quick quotes

    The book is enjoyable and informative in equal measure.

    It provides a comprehensive overview of Einstein's general theory of relativity in an accessible manner.

    The informal style is refreshing and helps to demystify the intricacies of general relativity.

Goodreads · 2013-05-05
unique 4.30

Unlike other books on Einstein gravity, this one emphasizes the action principle and group theory. It guides readers from fundamentals to advanced research frontiers.

This book is unique in its approach, focusing on the action principle and group theory to guide readers through the complexities of Einstein gravity. It starts with the basics of Newtonian mechanics and gradually builds up to the most exciting frontiers of research today. The book's emphasis on these principles makes it a standout resource for those looking to understand the underlying theories in a structured and coherent manner. The author's clear and concise explanations make it an excellent choice for both students and seasoned professionals.

Quick quotes

    Unlike other books on Einstein gravity, this book emphasizes the action principle and group theory as guides in constructing physical theories.

    Zee guides readers from the fundamentals of Newtonian mechanics to the most exciting frontiers of research today.

    The style and quality of the book is similar to QFT In a Nutshell, maybe even better.

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