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PHYS631
The Physics of Astrophysics I
(3 credits)
Prerequisite: None.

Overview

Introduction to the emission, absorption and scattering of radiation by matter in astrophysical environments, illustrated using recent results from the astrophysical literature. Topics include radiative transfer, statistical mechanics, local thermodynamic equilibrium, emission and absorption line diagnostics in common use, and the effects of dust. These physical processes will be applied to stellar atmospheres, the interstellar medium, HII regions, supernova remnants, active galactic nuclei, and clusters of galaxies.

Course Objectives

The primary academic objects of the course are

To provide the student a broad understanding of the physics underlying the interactions between matter and radiation within astrophysical environments.
To introduce the student to the professional astrophysical literature
To introduce the student to the various techniques and tools used in modern astrophysics and astronomy

Outline Syllabus

Review of Radiative Transfer
LTE and Stellar Atmospheres
Absorption and Emission by Astrophysical Dust
Thermodynamics and Reaction Equilibria
Fluid Approximations
Ionization Balance and Structure in Astrophysical Environments
Review of Classical Electrodynamics
Radiation from Plasmas
Important Emission and Absorption Diagnostics in Astrophysics
Course Review

Previous Runs of this Course

2006 Spring

Henriksen