This book presents an overview of the computational framework in which calculations of relativistic hydrodynamics have been developed. It summarizes the jargon and methods used in the field, and provides illustrative applications to real physical systems. The authors explain how to break down the complexities of Einstein's equations and fluid dynamics, stressing the viability of the Euler-Lagrange approach to astrophysical problems. The book contains techniques and algorithms enabling one to build computer simulations of relativistic fluid problems for various astrophysical systems in one, two and three dimensions. It also shows the reader how to test relativistic hydrodynamics codes. Suitable for graduate courses on astrophysical hydrodynamics and relativistic astrophysics, this book also provides a valuable reference for researchers already working in the field.

Calculations of relativistic hydrodynamics are crucial to several areas of current research in the physics of supernovae and stellar collapse. This book provides an overview of the computational framework in which such calculations have been developed, with examples of applications to real physical systems. Beginning with the development of the equations and differencing schemes for special relativistic hydrodynamics, the book stresses the viability of the Euler-Lagrange approach to most astrophysical problems. It details aspects of solving the Einstein equations together with the fluid dynamics for various astrophysical systems in one, two and three dimensions.