Examination procedure
<p>Oral exam/Seminar</p>
Examination procedure notes
<p>Choice between oral exam and seminar</p>
Prerequisites
Open to all, recommended for third and fourth year students. No prerequisites.
Syllabus
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts and methodologies in astrophysics.
Course Content
Astrophysical Units and Magnitude Scale
- Introduction to standard units of measurement in astrophysics.
- Detailed study of the magnitude scale and its applications.
Stellar Structure and Evolution
- Introduction to the Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) diagram and its importance in stellar classification.
- In-depth analysis of the equations governing stellar structure.
- Evolutionary paths of stars, including stages on and beyond the main sequence.
- Introduction to compact objects such as white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes.
- Binary systems: observational properties, types (visual, spectroscopic, eclipsing), and their role in astrophysical measurements.
Exoplanets
- Exoplanets: properties and detection techniques (transits, radial velocity, direct imaging, microlensing).
- Overview of planetary system architectures and habitability criteria.
Properties of the Interstellar Medium (ISM)
- Processes involved in star formation.
- Characteristics and dynamics of H II regions.
- Mechanisms and implications of supernova explosions.
Dynamics of Stellar Systems
- Study of the formation, structure, and evolution of star clusters.
- Dynamics and morphology of galaxies.
Bibliographical references
"An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics" by Caroll & Ostlie
"Galactic Dynamics" by Binney & Tremaine