文档介绍：Singularity theorems
and
the abstract boundary construction
By
Michael John Siew Lueng Ashley
October 3, 2002
A thesis submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy
of the Australian National University
Declaration
I certify that the work contained in this thesis is my own original research, produced
in collaboration with my supervisor – Dr Susan M. Scott. All material taken from
other references is explicitly acknowledged as such. I also certify that the work
contained in this thesis has not been submitted for any other degree.
Michael Ashley
i
ii
Dedication
To my Grandfather
iii
iv
Acknowledgements
I am sure that many doctoral candidates would agree with me pleting
a . is not only an academic victory but a personal one as well. Since the
beginning of my doctoral studies many events have occurred which have allowed
me to develop both intellectually and personally. Indirectly, all these events have
contributed in some way to the content and form of this document and the research
contained within it. I have had the great fortune of meeting some of the most
amazing people. Unknowingly, these friends and colleagues have given me much
more than just academic guidance. I only hope that the following thank you-s do
justice to your generosity and kindness.
Thank you Susan Scott for providing me with guidance and looking after my
academic well-being. Susan, you have been an inspirational mentor and I thank you
for giving me just less than enough leeway to hang myself with if I got off track.
I thank the Australian American Educational Foundation who gave me the won-
derful opportunity to study Lorentzian Geometry abroad under the auspices of a
Fulbright Scholarship and in particular Lindy Fisher who helped me prepare for my
trip and Stephanie Fesmire who kept track of my progress in the United States.
I thank Professor John Beem, under whom I feel I spent my apprenticeship in
this field. Your kindness, guidance and wi