Physics for astrophysics I
Coordinator: Associate Professor Peter Wells (Department of Physics)
4 points * First semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: MAT2010, MAA2011, MAA2032, and a minimum of eight points of second-year physics, which must include the units `Introduction to quantum mechanics', `Quantum physics', and `Atomic and nuclear physics' * Recommendations: PHS2251, PHS2262
Objectives This subject is designed for students taking the full twenty-four point astrophysics sequence and who are not taking any other third-year physics subjects. On the completion of this subject students will have an understanding of various areas of physics sufficient for a future professional astrophysicist; have a sufficient background in practical quantum mechanics necessary for understanding radiation processes in space plasmas and in interpreting stellar and other astronomical spectra; understand statistical mechanics to a level required to model many processes in astrophysical plasmas and their interactions with radiation.
Synopsis This subject consists of the third-year physics units `Applications of quantum mechanics', and `Statistical mechanics'. The synposes for both are listed under the physics third-year entry in this handbook.
Assessment Examinations: 85% * Assignments: 15%
Recommended texts
Guenault A M Statistical physics Routledge, 1988
Mandl F Quantum mechanics Wiley, 1992
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