ASP2062 - Introduction to astrophysics

Leader: Professor Paul Cally (School of Mathematical Sciences)

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

Processes of star and planet formation; celestial mechanics; tides, accretion disks; solar system formation; extra-solar planets; the Sun; interiors of stars and the main sequence; post main sequence evolution; degenerate remnants; the Milky Way; the nature of galaxies; active galaxies; particles and cosmic rays.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will become familiar with the application of basic physical and mathematical principles to quantitative and qualitative understanding of the nature of the universe around us; will develop the ability to think physically about astronomical problems, and demonstrate this in a range of problem solving tasks; will develop practical skills in computationally modelling astrophysical systems and will have gained a knowledge of stars, planets, and galaxies sufficient to undertake further astrophysics studies at Level 3.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 50%
Problem sets: 10%
Computer laboratories: 30%
Tests: 10%
A pass in the examination is required to pass the unit.

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures per week, one weekly 2-hour computer practical class, one weekly 1-hour support class

Prerequisites

MTH1030 or equivalent and 6 points of physics at level one

Co-requisites

MTH2010 recommended

Prohibitions

ASP2022 (except with permission of unit leader)