Course Details
Subject {L-T-P / C} : PH6117 : Introduction To Astrophysics { 3-0-0 / 3}
Subject Nature : Theory
Coordinator : Prof. Ananta Charan Pradhan
Syllabus
Stellar Measurables: Celestial sphere and co-ordinate systems, magnitude systems, determination of mass, luminosity, radius, temperature and distance of stars, stellar motion and stellar classification. Astronomical telescopes and detectors.
Evolution of Stars: star formation, Jean's criterion, HR diagram, Stellar structures, hydrostatic equilibrium, nuclear energy production and transport in stars, Solar system, end state of stars, compact objects.
Galaxy: Classification, structure and morphology of galaxies, our galaxy Milky Way, Galaxy Evolution, large scale structure, elementary ideas on structure formations.
Cosmology: Hubble’s law, Friedmann Robertson-Walker Model, cosmological constants, the early universe, thermodynamics of early universe, nucleosynthesis, cosmic microwave background radiation, age of the universe, big bang and steady state theory.
Course Objectives
- To demonstrate an understanding of our present picture of the cosmos on a large scale.
- To unravel the secrets of the universe using knowledge of basic physics.
- To understand the enigma of the Universe we inhabit and the astounding advancements and discoveries in astronomy.
- To explore the night sky which is interesting and amazing.
Course Outcomes
CO1: Learn how to understand a variety of astrophysical findings with the application of basic physics principles. <br />CO2: Students gain understanding of the evolution of stars from their formation to their demise. <br /> CO3: Get aware of the creation and evolution of Universe. <br />CO4: Learn in-depth information about the measurement methods used for the numerous physical parameters related to stars. <br />CO5: Understand and apply basic physics and computational techniques to solve problems in astrophysics, and interpret the results. <br />CO6: Learn history of Astronomy, apparent luminosity and its measurement and absolute luminosity.
Essential Reading
- Roger A. Freedman, Robert M. Geller, and William J. Kaufman III, Universe, WH Freeman publisher , 1st edition
- Jeffrey O. Bennett, Megan O. Donahue, Nicholas Schneider and Mark Voit, The Cosmic Perspective: Stars, Galaxies and Cosmology, Pearson publisher , 8th Edition
Supplementary Reading
- Frank F. Shu, The Physical Universe: An introduction to Astrophysics, University Science Books , 1st edition
- Arnab Rai Choudhuri, Astrophysics for Physicist, Cambridge University Press , 1st edition