Wang, Anzhong.Zhao, Lei.Baylor University. Dept. of Physics.2007-02-282007-02-282006-122007-02-28http://hdl.handle.net/2104/4991Includes bibliographical references (p. 74-76).In this thesis, I first review the fundamentals of Einstein's theory of gravity in four-dimensional spacetimes, and then develop the general formulas of thin shells in this theory. Applying these formulas to spherically symmetric thin shells, I study the gravitational collapse of dust clouds in the background of dark energy. To solve the relevant equations, I develop a computer program, and investigate four representative cases, in which one is without dark energy and the others are with. I find that in all the four cases black holes can be formed from the gravitational collapse of the dust cloud.vii, 76 p. : ill.136992 bytes553091 bytesapplication/pdfapplication/pdfen-USBaylor University theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact librarywebmaster@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.Gravitational collapse -- Mathematical models.Black holes (Astronomy) -- Mathematical models.Celestial mechanics -- Mathematical models.ThesisWorldwide access