ASP3032

Galaxies

Dr Paul Cally (Department of Mathematics and Statistics)

4 points
* Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 5-day field excursion
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: MAT2030, MAT2040, MAA2032 or MAT2072
* Recommendations: PHS2022, PHS2251 or ASP2031, PHS2262 or ASP2042
* Prohibitions: MAA3232, MAT3132

Objectives On the completion of this subject students will have an understanding of the different kinds of galaxies, their content and structure; be familiar with the relevant mathematical, numerical, and observational techniques.

Synopsis Galactic morphology and stellar content; stellar dynamics, encounters and relaxation; elliptic and spiral galaxies; density-wave theory; galactic evolution. Field trip to Mt Stromlo Observatory.

Assessment Examination (2 hours): 70%
* Assignments: 20%
* Field-trip report: 10%

Recommended texts

Binney J and Tremaine S Galactic dynamics Princeton U P, 1987
Bowers R and Deeming T D Astrophysics vol. 2, Jones and Bartlett, 1984
Tayler R J Galaxies: Structure and evolution CUP, 1993