Dark Energy Theory and Observations [Hardcover]

Introducing the theoretical ideas, observational methods and results in dark energy, this textbook is a thorough introduction to dark energy for graduate courses.Introducing the theoretical ideas, observational methods and results, this textbook is a thorough introduction to the exciting field of dark energy. Ideally suited to graduate courses on dark energy it contains problems with full solutions. Any calculations are worked through step-by-step.Introducing the theoretical ideas, observational methods and results, this textbook is a thorough introduction to the exciting field of dark energy. Ideally suited to graduate courses on dark energy it contains problems with full solutions. Any calculations are worked through step-by-step.Dark energy, the mysterious cause of the accelerating expansion of the universe, is one of the most important fields of research in astrophysics and cosmology today. Introducing the theoretical ideas, observational methods and results, this textbook is ideally suited to graduate courses on dark energy, and will also supplement advanced cosmology courses. Providing a thorough introduction to this exciting field, the textbook covers the cosmological constant, quintessence, k-essence, perfect fluid models, extra-dimensional models, and modified gravity. Observational research is reviewed, from the cosmic microwave background to baryon acoustic oscillations, weak lensing and cluster abundances. Every chapter ends with problems, with full solutions provided, and any calculations are worked through step-by-step.1. Overview; 2. Expansion history of the universe; 3. Correlation function and power spectrum; 4. Basics of cosmological perturbation theory; 5. Observational evidence of dark energy; 6. Cosmological constant; 7. Dark energy as a modified form of matter I: quintessence; 8. Dark energy as a modified form of matter II; 9. Dark energy as a modification of gravity; 10. Cosmic acceleration without dark energy; 11. Dark energy and linear cosmol“9