Role within programme and connections to other courses. Armed with the basic understanding acquired from the Astronomy survey course, we dive more deeply into a few topics. Astrophysics is a wonderful example of how elements from several subfields of physics are brought together to understand a phenomenon. Mechanics, quantum physics, and statistical physics are all involved. We will pull together knowledge acquired in introductory physics (conservation principles, forces, optics) and in the Astronomy course (blackbody radiation and spectral lines, in addition to astronomy basics), and will introduce other elements as required. Content. The specific topics studied will vary from offering to offering, but in all cases, the goal will be to apply physics knowledge to understand celestial phenomena. In addition, an element of familiarisation with current astrophysical research will be included.
Prerequisites: ASTR 1033 and PHYS 1051 + PHYS 1052 or equivalent, or permission from the instructor. |
