Solving for the dynamics of the universe

Abstract

A new method of solving the Einstein-Friedmann dynamical equations of a spatially homogeneous and isotropic universe is presented. The method is applicable when the equation of state of the material content assumes the form P=(g -1) rho, g = constant. The solution for the expansion factor is commonly given only for g = 0, 1 and 4/3 when the curvature index K is 1 or -1. The proposed procedure is valid for general g and K and it allows for ease of derivation of the solutions. This alternative method is useful pedagogically to introduce basic cosmology.

8 pages, LaTeX, no figures. To appear in American Journal of Physics