Causal Thermodynamics in Relativity

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.

Lectures given at the Hanno Rund Workshop on Relativity and Thermodynamics, University of Natal, June 1996. 39 pages Latex