Fundamentals of Astrophysics

This textbook is designed for undergraduate science and engineering students with a background in college-level calculus-based physics, introducing astrophysical concepts in a one-semester course. It covers stellar properties, structure, evolution, the interstellar medium, the Milky Way, other galaxies, and cosmology. The author's decade of teaching experience guides students toward a quantitative understanding with short chapters, questions, and multi-part exercises. Advanced concepts are developed as needed.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 03 June 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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This comprehensive textbook, meticulously crafted for a one-semester course in astrophysics, serves as an invaluable introduction to astrophysical concepts for undergraduate science and engineering students possessing a foundation in college-level, calculus-based physics. The text is thoughtfully structured into five distinct parts, encompassing:

Stellar Properties: This section delves into the fundamental characteristics of stars, including their composition, temperature, luminosity, and life cycles. It explores the various types of stars, such as main-sequence stars, supergiants, and white dwarfs, and discusses their formation, evolution, and eventual fate.

Stellar Structure and Evolution: This part examines the intricate internal structure of stars, including their nuclear reactions, energy production, and the mechanisms responsible for their evolution. It explores the concepts of stellar lifecycles, such as the main sequence, the red giant phase, and the supernova explosion, and discusses the effects of gravitational interactions and radiation on stellar evolution.

The Interstellar Medium and Star/Planet Formation: This section explores the complex interstellar medium, which encompasses the gas, dust, and plasma present between stars. It discusses the processes involved in star and planet formation, including gravitational collapse, protostellar disks, and the formation of planetary systems. It also examines the role of the interstellar medium in shaping the properties of galaxies and the universe as a whole.

The Milky Way and Other Galaxies: This part provides an in-depth exploration of our own Milky Way galaxy, including its structure, composition, and history. It discusses the formation and evolution of galaxies, including the processes of galaxy mergers, star formation, and black hole activity. It also explores the properties of other galaxies, such as their sizes, shapes, and stellar populations, and discusses the theories of galaxy formation and evolution.

Cosmology: This section delves into the study of the universe as a whole, including its origin, evolution, and ultimate fate. It discusses the Big Bang theory, the expansion of the universe, dark matter and dark energy, and the search for extraterrestrial life. It also explores the laws of physics that govern the universe and the role of astrophysics in understanding the cosmos.

The textbook is designed with the flexibility to accommodate different teaching approaches, making it suitable for both traditional lecture-based courses and more interactive learning environments. Each chapter is concise and easily digestible, featuring short, easily understandable sections accompanied by clear illustrations and diagrams. Additionally, quick questions and exercises are provided to reinforce key concepts and encourage practical application of the knowledge gained. As the course progresses, advanced concepts such as the quantum nature of energy and radiation are developed as needed, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.

By bridging the wide gap between introductory astronomy texts for non-science majors and advanced undergraduate texts for astrophysics majors, this textbook offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to astrophysics. It serves as a valuable resource for students pursuing careers in astronomy, physics, or related fields, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to explore the wonders of the universe.

\n Weight: 596g\n
Dimension: 171 x 244 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108948128\n \n