Modern Astrophysics

335H
This is a course in applied physics with the ultimate goal of describing how stars work.  Topics include gravitation, stellar mass determination, stellar structure, stellar atmospheres, stellar evolution, and the physics of pulsating stars.  We will approach each of these topics from fundamental concepts and we will work our way to a detailed understanding.  On the way we will review the structure of the atom, radiative processes, and some basic principles of thermodynamics.

Prerequisites: 

Prerequisites:  Introductory Physics (131-132 or 151-152 or 181-182), AND Calculus through Math 128, 132 or equivalent; AND at least one prior Astronomy or Physics course at the 200-level or above.

Credits: 

4

General Education Credit: 

Level: 

Undergraduate

Availability: 

Fall