AN INTRODUCTION TO SPECIAL RELATIVITY FOR RADIATION AND PLASMA PHYSICS

This textbook introduces the topic of special relativity, with a particular emphasis upon light-matter interaction and the production of light in plasma. The physics of special relativity is intuitively developed and related to the radiative processes of light. The book reviews the underlying theory of special relativity, before extending the discussion to applications frequently encountered by postgraduates and researchers in astrophysics, high power laser interactions and the users of specialized light sources, such as synchrotrons and free electron lasers. A highly pedagogical approach is adopted throughout, and numerous exercises are included within each chapter to reinforce the presentation of key concepts and applications of the material.

Bridges the gap between elementary relativity books and more advanced research texts, supported by accessible mathematics
Relevant to the study of laboratory plasmas and astrophysical plasmas, including cutting-edge research into relativistic effects observed in plasmas
Essential reading for researchers that use sources of short wavelength light and X-rays, such as synchrotrons, free electron lasers and laser-produced plasmas