Offers an introduction to modern ideas on the physical basis of the theory of relativity. This book explores various theories and ideas in big bang cosmology, providing an insight into problems. It presents the standard big bang theory of the universe and also provides an introduction to inflationary cosmology, emphasizing the underlying physics. "Provides a comprehensive account of the ideas underlying modern cosmology? . Problems are included to help the reader who wishes to gain a working knowledge of the subject." - IEE INSPEC "One will appreciate that the work is completely up-to-date and takes account of recent and significant developments in the subject." - L'Astronomie "Let it be said at the outset that Raine and Thomas have written a very good book ? [They] already compete well with other books in this market, and their book has the potential to become the text that lecturers still have to dream about." - John Peacock, The Observatory, vol. 122 "?they [the authors] deserve high praise ? Most students will surely prefer this book's half page chapters to five-page ones ? The book is well organized and the format is well thought out." - Physics Today, January 2003