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ASTM25: Stellar structure and evolution, 7.5 credits

given by the Astrophysics Division, Department of Physics.

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M13 stellar cluster: image by NASA HST

Content

After the course you will be able to:

Derive the basic equations that describe the internal structures of stars and apply them to calculate pressures and temperatures.
Account for energy transport inside stars
Describe the nuclear reactions that take place in stars and calculate their rates
Use mathematical tools to determine how the evolution and final stages of stars depend on their initial masses
Apply the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to classify stars and measure their radii
Calculate observable properties of stars using analytic models and homology
Apply Schwarzschild's formula to determine which energy transport mechanism dominates
Analyse complex astrophysical problems by breaking them down into their component parts and solving them separately
Work as part of a group to solve a complex astrophysical problem
Evaluate when and how it is appropriate to reference the work of others

General information

Semester: autumn
Study period: 2
Level: master
Language: English
Form of teaching: Lectures, group discussion sessions, problem-based learning sessions, and self-study
Assessment: Problem-based learning reports (20%) and a written final examination (80%).
Grading scale: U-G-VG
Course plan: ASTM25 syllabus (in English), ASTM25 syllabus (in Swedish)

Course literature

An Introduction to the Theory of Stellar Structure and Evolution by Dina Prialnik (second edition)

Teachers

Ross Church (course responsible), ross.church@fysik.lu.se, office A426

Schedule

A schedule for the next instance of the course can be found here (updated 2024-05-25) and on TimeEdit here. Please contact Ross Church if you need further information.

Application

Through antagning.se