Module Provider: |
Physics |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn, Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
PA
Hatherly |
Pre-requisites: |
PH1001 and PH1002 and PH1003 PH1005
|
Co-requisites: |
PH2001 and PH2002
|
Modules excluded: |
|
Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
Introduce the methods of observational astronomy and show how they are used to gather information about the Universe.
To develop the basic physical principles required in astrophysics and to develop stellar models in order to discuss the properties, classification and evolution of stars. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
Locate and identify astronomical objects
Describe and use astronomical coordinate systems and time information to determine the visibility, motions and relationships between astronomical objects
Describe typical astronomical instrumentation and detectors and discuss setting up, principles of operation and limitations
Describe the use of atomic and molecular emission and absorption spectra to determine stellar and interstellar constituents.
Evaluate distances to stars using parallax and carry out calculations on stellar motions.
Define absolute and apparent magnitudes and use their relationships to evaluate distances and luminosities.
Recall the stellar classification scheme and relate it to the temperature and spectrum of a star.
Produce a Hertzprung-Russell (HR) diagram and identify important populations of stars.
Evaluate the dimensions of stars using their temperature and luminosity.
Evaluate the masses of stars and produce the mass-luminosity relationship for Main Sequence stars.
Describe qualitatively and quantitatively the internal structure of stars and evaluate relevant parameters such as the temperature and pressure of stellar cores.
Apply the Boltzmann and Saha equations to stellar atmospheres.
Describe the power sources of stars and evaluate energy production rates in stellar cores.
Describe the nature of star forming regions and carry out calculations on Kelvin-Helmholtz contraction, summarising the results on a HR diagram.
Evaluate the main sequence lifetimes of stars, and discuss post main sequence evolution.
Describe Cepheid variables and their role as "standard candles".
Discuss the events leading to the deaths of low and high mass stars, the formation of exotic objects and the generation of heavy elements. |
Additional outcomes:
Students will develop a greater appreciation for the unity of physics through this module, as it draws upon all areas of classical, thermal and quantum physics covered in Parts 1 and 2. |
Outline content:
The module is in two parts. The Autumn term covers aspects of observational astronomy, including time-keeping, coordinate systems, stellar cartography and instrumentation. The Spring term covers the physical properties of stars, stellar interiors and stellar evolution. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
Typically two 50 minute lectures will be given each week, followed by a workshop session in which selected problems are discussed as well as providing an open forum for discussion of relevant topics. Evening observation sessions will be organised subject to local weather conditions.
Private study weeks will be organised, permitting students to review and consolidate their knowledge, to study new topics and to address continuous assessment work. A web page is provided to support the Spring term topics. The page contains a timetable for the module, lecture notes, workshop notes, assessment questions and feedback, and links to external pages providing additional information. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
12 |
16 |
8 |
| Tutorials/seminars |
6 |
8 |
4 |
| Practicals |
|
|
|
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
6 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Total hours |
24 |
24 |
12 |
| |
|
|
|
| Number of essays or assignments |
5 |
2 |
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
|
|
|
Assessment:
Coursework:
Assessed problems completed in private study, set at regular intervals
Relative percentage of coursework : 40%
Examinations:
One three hour examination in June, 60%
Requirements for a pass:
40%
Reassessment arrangements:
One three hour examination in September, 100% |
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