Unit name | Stellar Structure and Evolution 301 |
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Unit code | PHYS34013 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Birkinshaw |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
120 credit points at Level I/5 in Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics or joint honours Physics and Philosophy. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Physics |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit introduces the physics underlying the structure and evolution of stars, through a description of applicable nuclear physics, statistical mechanics and thermal physics.
Emphasis is placed on deriving simple models for the structures of different types of star and the processes of stellar evolution.
Aims:
Able to use the virial theorem and equations of hydrostatic equilibrium. Understand the importance of equations of state. Understand the different nuclear processes which occur in different mass stars. Understand the radiative and convective transfer of heat. Understand the origins of the chemical elements. Understand how the different masses of stars lead to different endpoints of stellar evolution.
The unit will be taught through a combination of
Written, timed, open-book examination (70%) Coursework (30%)