Mechanical Engineering
MTF076 Astrophysics and Cosmology 6.0 ECTS credits
DENNA SIDA FINNS OCKSÅ PÅ SVENSKA
General information about studying at Luleå University
TIMEPERIOD: Q 3
LANGUAGE: English/Swedish
EXAMINER
Sverker Fredriksson Prof
PREREQUISITES
Particle and Nuclear Physics MTF071.
COURSE AIM
The course gives an overview of modern astrophysics and cosmology. Astrophysics deals with such phenomena in universe that can be explained by basic physics principles, and cosmology has to do with the overall structure of universe. The latest discoveries by space- and earth-based detectors, as well as the measuring techniques, will be covered. The course is a good ground for graduate diploma work.
CONTENTS
The structure and development of the whole universe, galaxies, stars and solar systems are the central themes of the course. Experimental methods, detectors and various space missions are described. Special weight is given to so-called astroparticle physics, i.e. the coupling between the structure of universe and the properties of elementary particles. In this respect, the course is also a natural continuation of the course in particle and nuclear physics. Many new, and not so well understood, phenomena will be discussed, such as galactic dark matter, quasars, gamma-ray bursts, neutron stars, the missing solar neutrinos, the cosmic background radiation and MACHOs.
Among the homework assignments, one will be the writing of an essay and another a small project of research character.
TEACHING
Lessons only.
EXAMINATION
Homework assignment.
COURSE GRADE SCALE: 3, 4, 5
ITEMS AND CREDITS
Homework 6.0 ECTS
COURSE LITERATURE
Harwit. M., Astrophysical Concepts, 2nd edition, Springer Verlag 1988. ISBN 0-387-96683-8.
REMARKS
Lessons in English on request.
Last modified 97-03-05
Further information: Sverker Fredriksson
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