Stellar Physics
Explore the mysteries of astrophysics by delving into the physics of the lifecycle of stars, including the Sun, massive stars, white dwarfs, supernovae explosions, and supernova remnants. Through lectures and hands-on activities, learn how to use physical modeling to determine distances between celestial objects, their age and other key characteristics, and thereby gain insights into the structure of the universe filled with dark matter and dark energy.
Course Content:
・Measurements of the Earth-Sun Distance
・Structure of the Sun
・Future of the Sun and the Earth
・White dwarf stars
・Supernova Explosions
・Supernova Remnants
・Cosmology with Supernovae
・Presentations by Students
Weekly Quizzes (70%), Presentations (30%)
Fundamental undergraduate-level physics recommended but not required.
・George W. Collins II , “Stellar Astrophysics”, W.H. Freedman and Company (1989)
・Stuart L. Shapiro & Saul A. Teukolsky, “Black Holes, White Dwarfs, and Neutron Stars”, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (1983)
Course not offered AY2024