FY817: Introduction to Astrophysics and Cosmology (5 ECTS)

STADS: 07009601

Level
Master's level course

Teaching period
The course is offered in the autumn semester.

Teacher responsible
Email: kouvaris@cp3.dias.sdu.dk

Timetable
Show entire timetable
Show personal time table for this course.

Prerequisites:
None

Academic preconditions:
It is recommended, that FY507 Introductory quantum mechanics has been attended.

You are not allowed to register for this course if you have passed the course FY806 Astrophysics.

Course introduction
To give an overview of the subatomic structure of matter (nuclei and elementary particles), and a basic understanding of star formation, stability and evolution. The course includes an introduction also to cosmology, the Big Bang theory and the evolution of the universe.

Qualifications
At the end of the course the student will a basic understanding of particle physics, nuclear reactions, astrophysics and cosmology.

Expected learning outcome
After the course the students will be able to:

• give an overview on an elementary level of the forces of nature governing the Universe
• explain basic reactions on the subatomic level (nuclei and elementary particles)
• understand the basics of the evolution of the universe 
• explain the mechanisms governing birth, development and death of the stars

Subject overview
Introduction to elementary particles, fundamental forces, nuclei and nuclear models. Star classification, formation, stability, energy transport and evolution. Introduction to the Big Bang theory and Friedmann equation for the evolution of the universe.

Literature

• Halliday, Resnick, Krane: Physics Vol 2, Wiley 5th ed.
• J. Christensen-Dalsgaard: Stellar Structure and Evolution, Lecture Notes, Aarhus Universitet.
• B. Ryden: Introduction to Cosmology, Addison-Wesley, 2003.

Website
This course uses e-learn (blackboard).

Prerequisites for participating in the exam
None

Assessment and marking:
Written exam. Danish 7-mark scale, internal censorship.

Expected working hours
The teaching method is based on three phase model.
Intro phase: 30 hours
Skills training phase: 12 hours, hereof:
 - Tutorials: 12 hours

Educational activities

Language
This course is taught in Danish or English, depending on the lecturer. However, if international students participate, the teaching language will always be English.

Remarks
The course is optional and is recommended for all physics students at 3rd and 4th year and students that have their minor subject in physics (both bachelor and master level). From autumn 2016 the course will be mandatory in the Bachelor programme and the minor subject (bachelor level) in physics.

Course enrollment
See deadline of enrolment.

Tuition fees for single courses
See fees for single courses.