Causal Thermodynamics in Relativity

TL;DR

This paper reviews Israel and Stewart's causal relativistic thermodynamics, discussing its applications in cosmology and astrophysics, with a focus on causal bulk viscosity and new results in the field.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of causal relativistic thermodynamics and introduces new findings related to causal bulk viscosity in cosmological models.

Findings

Analysis of causal bulk viscosity effects in cosmology

Introduction of new results in relativistic thermodynamics

Application of covariant fluid dynamics in astrophysics

Abstract

I review the causal relativistic thermodynamics developed by Israel and Stewart, and discuss some applications in cosmology and astrophysics. The lectures begin with an overview of relativistic fluid dynamics (in a covariant formalism) and equilibrium thermodynamics. Causal bulk viscosity in cosmology is considered in detail, including some new results.