Dynamical Systems and Cosmology

Dynamical systems theory is especially well-suited for determining the possible asymptotic states (at both early and late times) of cosmological models, particularly when the governing equations are a finite system of autonomous ordinary differential equations. In this volume the authors discuss cosmological models as dynamical systems, with particular emphasis on applications in the early universe. They point out the important role of self-similar models and review the asymptotic properties of spatially homogeneous perfect fluid models in GR. They discuss results concerning scalar field models with an exponential potential (both with and without barotropic matter). Finally, they cover the dynamical properties of cosmological models derived from the string effective action. This work should be a useful source for all graduate students and professional astronomers who are interested in modern developments in cosmology.