91187 - Fundamentals of Astrophysics

Academic Year 2021/2022

Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is to obtain a general understanding of physical properties of stars and galaxies. At the end of the lectures the student will know the equations that regulate the internal structure of the stars, the sources of energy production, the structure of stellar atmosphere and the formation theory of the spectral lines. The student will acquire a general knowledge of morphological, structural and dynamical properties of stellar systems (stellar clusters, galaxies, ...). Hence, he/she will acquire the necessary bases to understand the structural and evolutionary properties of stars and galaxies.

Course contents

The course will cover:

  1. Astronomical data & tools
  2. Celestial Mechanics & the solar system
  3. Radiative Processes
  4. Classification of stars & Stellar atmosphere
  5. Thermodynamics & Astrophysics
  6. Stellar Interiors
  7. Stellar Evolution
  8. Fate of Massive Stars & Stellar remnants
  9. Special & General Relativity / Black Holes
  10.  Galaxies & Galaxy Clusters
  11.  Cosmology & Large Scale Structure
  12.  Cosmic Microwave Background & The Early Universe

Readings/Bibliography

"An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics", Carroll & Ostlie, 2nd ad. 2014, Person Education Limited

 

"Theoretical Astrophysics", vol I-III, Padmanabhan, 2000, Cambridge University Press

 

Teaching methods

Lectures, assigned problems and projects.

Assessment methods

An independent project and oral exam.

Office hours

See the website of Robert Benton Metcalf